"Professor of Musical Theatre (Open Rank)"

Job Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Montclair State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Professor in Musical Theatre (open rank) to serve as Head of the Musical Theatre Program. We seek a collaborative, visionary, and equity-minded artist-educator to lead our nationally recognized BFA in Musical Theatre and contribute to the vibrant, interdisciplinary culture of our department.

The successful candidate will provide academic and artistic leadership for the Musical Theatre program, guiding curriculum development, student mentorship, recruitment, faculty hiring and support, and program administration. In addition to administrative duties, faculty responsibilities include teaching, directing, and/or choreographing productions, and fostering a learning environment that supports student belonging, artistic growth, and professional readiness.

Located just 15 miles from New York City, our BFA in Musical Theatre is home to nearly 90 students from across the country. We are committed to cultivating a program that champions both artistic excellence and inclusive practices. Our faculty includes dynamic educators and working professionals who bring current industry knowledge into the classroom and rehearsal studio. We value collaboration across disciplines and maintain strong ties with the John J. Cali School of Music and other campus partners.

We welcome candidates from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences who demonstrate:

• A sustained professional career in musical theatre performance, direction, choreography, or related areas.
• Experience in academic or program leadership, with a commitment to inclusive and student-centered practices and experience leading curricular initiatives and/or program development.
• A record of excellence in teaching and/or mentoring in higher education or professional training settings.
• A commitment to ongoing creative and/or scholarly work that contributes to the field and enhances the visibility of the program.
• A collaborative spirit and a desire to contribute to a diverse and interdisciplinary academic community.

THE DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND DANCE

Montclair State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance is a nationally recognized leader in performing arts education, known for its high standards of artistic excellence, professional preparation, and inclusive community. We offer a rigorous liberal arts foundation paired with intensive, hands-on training led by accomplished faculty, working professionals, and renowned guest artists. Our students benefit from one-on-one mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a curriculum that reflects both current industry practices and forward-thinking pedagogy. We are proud of our alumni, who are thriving as performers, educators, creators, and leaders across stage, screen, studios, and classrooms. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to fostering a learning environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated and every individual is empowered to grow. Through artistic experimentation, critical inquiry, and a shared commitment to equity and excellence, we prepare adaptable, socially conscious artist-thinkers ready to make meaningful contributions to the world.

THE COLLEGE OF THE ARTS

The College of the Arts (CART) at Montclair State University is a dynamic, collaborative, and inspiring community. With more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs across the Department of Art & Design, the John J. Cali School of Music, and the Department of Theatre and Dance, CART is a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. Over 2,000 diverse and talented students bring our state-of-the-art studios, stages, and classrooms to life every day, supported by passionate academic advisors and a career services team dedicated to their success. Programs are rigorous, creative, and designed to meet the needs of all students while offering rich opportunities for experiential learning, performance, and internships. Our faculty is a powerhouse of working composers, designers, actors, musicians, choreographers, conductors, fine artists, scholars, and professionals—Fulbright, Guggenheim, and Howard Award recipients among them—who shape the next generation through close mentorship and hands-on learning. The College is also home to the University Art Galleries, Arts and Cultural Programming, and Broadcast and Media Operations, anchoring deep connections with corporate and arts partners. Whether on campus or in the broader community, CART pulses with energy, excellence, and the belief that the arts can transform lives.

QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates must hold an MFA, PhD, or equivalent professional experience, and have a strong record of university-level teaching excellence, student mentorship, and demonstrated leadership ability. Faculty are expected to maintain an active creative practice, and demonstrated national and/or international performance, choreography, or directing experience is expected.

STARTING DATE August 28, 2026

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

• Cover letter, curriculum vitae, research and teaching statements, and representative work samples or publications, which can be uploaded during the application process.
• Candidates who are shortlisted will be asked to supply 3 letters of recommendation separately.

Salary Range

$97,003.17-$131,849.08 Annually

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/

Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.

Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions.

Department

Theatre and Dance

Position Type

Faculty