"Part-Time Faculty: VIS 622 Visual Communications Theory (Spring 2026)"

Part-Time Faculty: VIS 622 Visual Communications Theory (Spring 2026)

Location: Syracuse, NY

Pay Range: $1,440 - $1,550 per credit hour

Pay Determination:
Salary offers at Syracuse University will be based on education, experience, and relevant skills, as well as the academic or professional discipline of the position in the context of the home department, school, or college. Salary offers may also be influenced by prior relevant work or industry experience, where applicable. Faculty pay ranges are for 8.5 months salary unless otherwise specified.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Hours:
Spring 2026 Semester
Class meets Wednesdays 9:30am-12:15pm
Office hours required

Job Type: Part Time

Rank: PTI/Adjunct

Job Description:
The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University seeks an instructor to teach VIS 622: Visual Communications Theory on Wednesdays 9:30am-12:15pm during the Spring 2026 semester (3 credits). This graduate-level course introduces students to the theoretical, methodological, and critical frameworks that shape the study and practice of visual communication.

Course Description:
This course explores how visual communication informs, persuades, and entertains through meaning-making systems, semiotics, and cultural frameworks. Students examine images through multiple theoretical lenses, learning how visual messages shape understanding, identity, representation, and ethical considerations. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and analytical assignments, students will critically evaluate images, apply theoretical methods, and develop the research tools necessary to navigate and interpret today's visually complex media environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree required.
• Masters degree required; Ph.D. preferred.

Job Specific Qualifications:

• Teaching experience preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in visual communication theory, semiotics, cultural theory, or related fields.
• Strong analytical, writing, and research skills applicable to graduate-level instruction.
• Ability to lead discussions, mentor graduate work, and support theoretical and creative research.

Responsibilities:
Teaching assignments may include the following:

• Developing and/or updating a detailed course syllabus, readings, and assignments.
• Preparing and delivering lectures, class discussions, and presentations.
• Maintaining regularly scheduled office hours.
• Facilitating theoretical and methodological engagement with course readings.
• Evaluating research papers, visual analysis assignments, creative visual projects, exams, and presentations.
• Submitting mid-semester progress reports and final grades per University regulations.
• Encouraging critical thinking, diverse perspectives, and ethical analysis in visual communication.
• Providing departmentally sanctioned student evaluations.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to instruct the class on the days and times it is designated to meet.
• Ability to hold office hours on campus.
• Ability to grade all assignments and examinations.

Tools/Equipment:

• Ability to operate standard classroom instructional technology, which may include computer, projector, document camera, etc.

Application Instructions:
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a curriculum vitae and cover letter.

About Syracuse University:
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the Universitys 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.