"Assistant Professor (Costume Design)"

General Summary

Eastern Michigan University’s (EMU) School of Communication, Media & Theatre Arts (CMTA) is now accepting applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position. This position will primarily teach in the Entertainment Design & Technology (ED&T) program with potential to teach classes in related areas within the School, such as Theatre and/or Arts and Entertainment Management.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to:
• Teaching 2-3 classes per semester (12-credits per semester teaching load)
• Designing costumes (typically including hair and make-up) for 1-2 shows per semester (counted towards teaching load)
• Maintaining an active teaching, scholarship / creative activity, and service agenda
• Closely mentoring student costume designers as the opportunities arise (including but not limited to students designing mainstage shows and touring shows)
• Assign and submit grades in accordance with established University schedules.
• Academic advising for students towards a 4-year graduation goal within the Theatre and/or ED&T degrees
• Though the primary responsibility is costume design, those with other areas of specialization might have the opportunity to design / mentor in other areas, as appropriate
• Collaborating closely with the Costume Shop Manager and other Designers.
• Assisting in the costume shop with the build of two mainstage shows per semester

Minimum Qualifications

The successful applicant will have an MFA (or suitable terminal degree) in costume design or a related design discipline with significant professional experience in costume design. In addition, the candidate should have experience teaching at the university level and mentoring student designers.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates who provide evidence of significant achievement in professional creative work, successful teaching / scholarship, and /or those actively involved in professional organizations such as USITT / LDI / KC-ACTF, etc.

Special Instructions

All applications must be made online through EMU’s application portal (https://careers.emich.edu/)
Applicants must submit the following materials for consideration:
• Cover letter that speaks to interest in the position, qualifications, and commitment to / evidence of supporting an inclusive academic environment
• Teaching philosophy / approach
• Curriculum Vitae
• Link to / upload of design portfolio
• Names and contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin Fall of 2025 and continue until the position is filled. The Search Committee chair is Phil Simmons. If interested, please contact Phil at psimmon2@emich.edu.

Appointment Percentage

100%