Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD), located in Lakewood, Colorado, stands as a premier institution dedicated to nurturing creative talent in the visual arts and design fields. Founded in 1963, RMCAD has evolved into a dynamic hub for higher education in art, offering Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees across programs like animation, graphic design, illustration, interior design, game art, and fine arts. Nestled near Denver in the United States, the college benefits from Colorado's inspiring landscape of the Rocky Mountains, which influences its emphasis on innovative and nature-inspired design. Jobs at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design attract professionals passionate about teaching future artists while contributing to a vibrant academic community.
The institution's small size, with around 1,000 students, fosters close mentorship and hands-on learning in state-of-the-art studios. This environment makes RMCAD an appealing place for careers in higher education, particularly for those seeking roles where creativity meets pedagogy. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions or administrative opportunities, understanding the college's focus on practical, industry-aligned skills is key to succeeding in jobs at RMCAD.
Established as the Rocky Mountain School of Art, RMCAD gained college status in the early 2000s, reflecting its growth from a vocational school to a degree-granting powerhouse. Over six decades, it has built a reputation for producing graduates who thrive in competitive industries like gaming, advertising, and visual media. The mission centers on empowering students through rigorous, project-based education that bridges traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology.
This history shapes jobs at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, prioritizing instructors who can blend classical art training with digital tools. The college's commitment to real-world preparation means faculty often maintain active professional practices, enriching the classroom experience.
RMCAD's curriculum spans 13 BFA programs, including emerging fields like UX/UI design and motion graphics. These programs demand faculty with specialized expertise, making teaching roles central to the college's operations. For instance, the animation department requires knowledge of 3D modeling and storytelling, while interior design positions emphasize sustainable practices suited to Colorado's eco-conscious ethos.
Career seekers interested in university job types will find faculty openings tied directly to these programs, alongside support roles in admissions and student services. The college's location in Lakewood enhances opportunities for local collaborations with Denver's art scene.
To fully grasp jobs at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, key terms include:
Jobs at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, especially faculty roles, typically require an MFA in a relevant field like graphic design or illustration. PhD holders may find fits in interdisciplinary positions, but the MFA is standard for studio-based teaching.
Creative focus areas include digital animation, sustainable design, and immersive media, reflecting Colorado's tech-art fusion. Preferred experience encompasses 3-5 years of college-level teaching, professional exhibitions, or industry projects—such as freelance for gaming studios. Publications in art journals or grants from bodies like the National Endowment for the Arts boost candidacy.
Essential skills and competencies:
Administrative jobs may prioritize bachelor's degrees with experience in higher ed operations.
The application process for RMCAD jobs begins with monitoring the college's career page and platforms like higher ed jobs listings. Submit a tailored cover letter, CV, portfolio (PDF or online link), teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews often include portfolio reviews and demo lessons.
Actionable tips:
For lecturer positions, review advice like becoming a university lecturer.
RMCAD actively advances diversity through the Diversity Scholar program, offering aid to underrepresented creatives, and curriculum integrating global perspectives in design. Faculty hiring committees prioritize diverse candidates, with training on inclusive teaching. Events like cultural showcases and affinity groups support a welcoming environment, aligning with broader higher ed career advice on equity.
Campus life at RMCAD buzzes with exhibitions, guest lectures, and student shows in modern studios overlooking the Rockies. Faculty enjoy flexible schedules for personal projects, sabbaticals every seven years, and wellness perks like gym access and mental health support. Lakewood's proximity to Denver offers urban amenities, hiking, and festivals, aiding work-life balance. Professional development funds and collaborative culture prevent burnout in creative roles.
Jobs at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design offer a unique blend of artistic passion and academic impact in Colorado's inspiring setting. From faculty guiding the next generation of designers to admin supporting creative excellence, opportunities abound. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your path.
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