Job description
The School of Performing Arts at DeSales University seeks applications for a full-time, tenure track faculty member who is a committed artist, educator, and scholar in the area of Musical Theatre performance. The position requires candidates with a terminal degree in a directly related field or an outstanding professional career (Assistant Professor of Professional Practice). Candidates should also possess a wide skill set and a recognized body of work as a theatre artist, and demonstrate a successful record of teaching experience. The faculty member will be expected to teach undergraduate coursework, maintain an active program of scholarship and professional development, and engage in service to the University. Appointment to begin August 2026.
Responsibilities include a 4/4 teaching load, concentrated in the following areas:
- Teaching courses in the Musical Theatre track.
- Ability in one or more of the following areas: Directing musicals, Music Direction, and/or Choreographing. An assignment qualifies as a single teaching load.
Other Desirable Skills:
- Ability to teach other courses within the Theatre Department.
- Ability to create and teach special topics courses.
The position also involves academic advising, recruitment, and supporting a diverse community of artists.
DeSales University’s Theatre Department offers a BA degree in Theatre with 110 majors in five tracks (Acting for Stage and Screen, Musical Theatre, Design and Technology, Arts Administration, and Theatre Education) and 7 full-time faculty members. There is also opportunity for collaboration with the Dance and TV/Film departments within the School of Performing Arts. During the summer months the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is in residence at The Labuda Center for the Performing Arts and is a possible opportunity for additional faculty development.
For more information about the Theatre Department, please go to: https://www.desales.edu/academics/academic-programs/detail/theatre
For more information about our productions please go to: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLidZqfwwqH3gSxktINiFFHfCRqOn8m75&si=iYXcpzFkIdB39DUv
How to apply
Applications need to be complete to be considered for review. To apply, please submit electronically (PDF preferred) the following material to Victoria Kopishke, Business Manager for the School of Performing Arts ([email protected]). In the subject line of the email, please only include your Last Name-Musical Theatre:
- Letter of Application (outlining interest and qualifications)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Statement of Teaching Philosophy
- Contact Information for three Professional References
- Official Transcripts will be required for all finalists
Application deadline is January 7, 2026.
DeSales University is an EEO employer – M/F/Vets/Disabled; Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.
DeSales University, in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian, Catholic university, under the leadership of the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is located 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City. A total enrollment of nearly 3,500 includes undergraduate day and evening students, and graduate students. DeSales has approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers more than 40 bachelor’s degrees, twelve graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs in a wide range of disciplines; many of these can be completed fully online.
In 2024, the University transitioned to a new academic structure featuring a four-college/school model, which includes the Waterbury Reilly School of Business; a College of Arts, Education, and Humanities with a School of Education and a School of Performing Arts; a College of Sciences; and a College of Healthcare Professions with a designated School of Nursing. For further information, visit www.desales.edu. EOE
