"Assistant Professor of Communication Studies - IFO"

Job Description

SMSU’s Assistant Professor of Communication Studies is a full-time probationary position. Responsibilities include supervising the delivery of the COMM 110 (basic public speaking course) through the SMSU College Now concurrent enrollment program at regional high schools (coordinate the concurrent enrollment delivery sites, oversee curriculum dissemination, provide professional development for high school teaching assistants, oversee communication with sites, and engage in assessment of the program), and teaching COMM 110 regularly in an on campus and/or online modality. In addition, this position will teach the secondary education methods course (COMM 450) on campus and serve as an advisor to students in that major and assist in the redesign of curriculum as needed to ensure students are well prepared for careers in teaching. The position may also teach other courses in any area of specialty as needed by the Communication Studies Program.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communication Studies or closely related field.
• Candidates must have at least two years of concurrent enrollment supervision experience. Possess a current Communication Arts Literature Teaching License in the State of MN and have at least four years of high school teaching experience. Must have previously taught a basic public speaking course.
• Familiarity with D2L Brightspace (or comparable) LMS.
• Understanding of and appreciation for liberal education.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in teaching online or through alternative modalities (hybrid, hyflex, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to teach and work with persons from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualification

• Terminal degree in Communication Studies or closely related field.
• Five or more years of high school teaching experience.
• Five or more years of concurrent enrollment supervision experience.
• Post-secondary teaching experience.

Priority will be given to those who apply by 12/8/2025.

Required Document to submit for consideration:

Transcript, Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Diversity Statement, and Teaching Philosophy.

Other Considerations:

The successful candidate must be authorized to work in the United States by the first day of employment. The University will not give consideration for H-1B sponsorship. Employment or Visa sponsorship, other than H-1B status, must be pre-approved by the University prior to offer acceptance. Telework (Yes/No) No

About Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University is one of seven universities in the Minnesota State system. SMSU gives highest priority to excellence in teaching and preparing students to be lifelong learners through quality undergraduate teaching/advising and close student/faculty relationships. Its mission, dating back to 1967, provides access to university-level programs in liberal arts professional studies. The University has a special commitment to the educational needs of the people in its service region reflected through its curricula, cultural programs, diversity of staff and students, cooperative relationships with the public and private sectors, and regional institutions. The 216-acre campus encompasses 24 modern, interconnected, and accessible buildings. Marshall (pop. 13,000) is the hub of a rich agricultural area and offers a variety of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. The position is an opportunity to be part of a vibrant, dynamic and growing institution that is searching for exceptionally talented people.