"Professor/Department Head of Communication and Media Studies"

Professor/Department Head of Communication and Media Studies

Company:

Southeastern Louisiana University

Job Location:

Category:

Media and Communication Studies

Type:

Full-Time

Southeastern Louisiana University’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences invites applications for an inspiring leader to serve as Head of the Department of Communication and Media Studies. The Department offers programs in Communication Studies, Journalism, Multimedia Production, and Strategic Communication, and is home to the state-of-the-art Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities in television, radio, and digital media. The Department plays a vital role in preparing graduates for dynamic careers in communication and media while contributing to the cultural and intellectual life of the region.

The Department Head is the chief academic and administrative officer of the department, serving a 12-month appointment and reporting to the Dean. The position carries both administrative and faculty responsibilities, including teaching, research/creative activity, and service appropriate to the scope of the department.

A complete search profile can be found at https://www.southeastern.edu/wp-content/uploads/human-resources/employment/department-head-comm-media-studies.pdf

Questions concerning this position should be directed to the search committee Co-Chair, Assistant Professor Dr. Chelsea Slack, chelsea.slack@selu.edu. The desired start date is July 1, 2026. The search will continue until filled.

Application Deadline: For full consideration, applications must be completed and submitted by Tuesday, January 20, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. Review will continue until the position is filled. All applications must be submitted through Southeastern’s online Workday system.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership in curriculum development, assessment, and strategic planning.
• Mentor and evaluate faculty, recruit new faculty, and promote professional development.
• Manage departmental budgets and advocate effectively for resources.
• Oversee course scheduling, accreditation reviews, and program development.
• Promote student recruitment, retention, and success.
• Represent the department within the College, University, and community.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Terminal degree in Communication Studies or a closely related field.
• Record of teaching, scholarship, and service warranting appointment as associate or full professor.
• Minimum of six years of successful full-time teaching at the assistant professor level or above.
• Evidence of teaching excellence at undergraduate and/or graduate levels.
• Experience or certification in online teaching.
• Demonstrated commitment to shared governance and inclusive leadership.
• Experience with curriculum development and assessment.
• Budget and resource management skills.
• Personal qualities of openness, integrity, and objectivity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience effectively leading an academic department.
• Strong record of service at the department, college, and university levels.
• Expertise in two or more areas: Communication theory, Journalism, Multimedia Production, Strategic Communication.
• Ability to build partnerships with local industries and community organizations

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

• Cover Letter addressing qualifications.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Names and contact information for 3–5 references.
• Unofficial transcript of the highest degree (official transcripts required upon hire).

Posting Close Date January 20, 2026

Please Note: Applications must be completed and submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the posting close date to ensure consideration.

Southeastern Louisiana University is committed to fostering an environment of inclusion, respect and appreciation of differences in individuals. Southeastern is also designated as a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency and provides assistance to persons needing accommodations or with the accessibility of materials.

How to Apply:

Click on the Apply button and complete an electronic application which can be used for this vacancy as well as future vacancies. Any required documents should be attached under the Resume/CV section of your application. If all required documents are not attached you will NOT be considered.

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