Assistant Professor of Commercial Music

Faculty are essential to Liberty University’s mission of Training Champions for Christ. It is expected that a faculty member model a personal commitment to the goals and values of Liberty University, engage in an active commitment to, and experience of, personal spiritual formation within a biblically informed Christian worldview.

The Assistant Professor’s primary role is to teach in their areas of expertise, maintain the integrity of course and instructional programs, and to ensure that their delivery is in alignment with the University mission and vision for the student experience.

The Michael W. Smith Center for Commercial Music at Liberty University seeks a dynamic and innovative faculty member to join our growing program. This full-time, residential faculty position focusing on teaching and mentoring students in the areas of music production, music business, and songwriting, preparing them for careers in the contemporary music industry- all grounded in a biblical worldview.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach undergraduate courses in music production (studio recording, mixing, digital audio workstations), music business (copyright, publishing, marketing, entrepreneurship), and songwriting (lyric writing, composition, arranging).
• Supervise student projects and mentor students in creative and professional development.
• Contribute to curriculum development and program assessment in Commercial Music.
• Maintain an active professional profile in the music industry.
• Participate in departmental meetings, student recruitment, and university service.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Music Production, Music Technology, Commercial Music, Music Business, Songwriting, or related field
• Demonstrated proficiency in professional music notation software and digital audio production platforms
• Industry certification or equivalent professional experience in music production technology
• Knowledge of music industry business practices, including intellectual property, contracts, and revenue streams
• Evidence of successful teaching or professional training experience
• Ability to effectively integrate biblical worldview principles into curriculum and student mentorship
• Personal testimony of faith in Jesus Christ and passion for training champions for Christ

Preferred Qualifications

• Terminal degree (DMA, PhD, or equivalent) in relevant field
• Professional songwriting, production, or engineering credits
• Experience in music publishing, licensing, or other music business sectors
• Industry certifications in music technology platforms
• Experience teaching in the contemporary commercial music industry
• Active involvement in the contemporary commercial music industry
• Entrepreneurial experience in music-related ventures
• Ministry experience or involvement in church music leadership

Target Hire Date: 2026-07-01