Job description

The Department of Art at Sam Houston State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Art in Graphic Design, beginning Fall 2026.

Usual Duties

We seek an innovative and dedicated educator whose practice bridges print, interactive, and emerging design fields, with demonstrated expertise in contemporary design technologies, including AI-driven tools and workflows. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to adapt to evolving industry standards and to prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing creative landscape. A strong commitment to foundational design principles, conceptual development, and research-based, forward-thinking design pedagogy is essential.

Faculty duties include a 3/2 teaching load (five courses per academic year), active service on departmental, college, and university committees, and sustained, peer-reviewed creative or scholarly activity.

Degree Requirements

Candidates must possess an MFA or terminal degree in Graphic Design or Visual Communications and demonstrate outstanding potential in research and/or creative activity.

Experience Requirements

The successful candidate will be expected to teach a range of undergraduate Graphic Design courses, including, but not limited to Principles of Graphic Design, Typography, Branding, UX/UI, Motion Graphics, and Portfolio Development. Applicants must present a professional portfolio that reflects significant achievement in these areas.

Other Requirements for the Position

Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite is required. Proficiency in web development practices, Figma, and other relevant interactive design tools is expected. Additional responsibilities include: Incorporating AI applications and emerging technologies into coursework. Guiding students in production design using equipment such as 3D printers and die cutters. Developing and maintaining a forward-thinking curriculum aligned with current industry standards. Demonstrating strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. Contributing to the growth and vision of a regionally competitive Graphic Design program. Mentoring students in career preparation, internships, and professional development. Contributing to the growth and vision of a regionally competitive Graphic Design program.

How to apply

Applicants should submit the following documents as PDF:Cover letter

a detailed CV statement of teaching philosophy

statement describing research and goalsnames and contact information of three referencessamples of personal worksamples of student work- – for time-based media work examples, please provide URLs for each specific project within the PDF document.

Official college transcripts and letters of recommendation will be required for finalists for this position.

Review of materials will begin immediately, and the search will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note: References provided in the References section of the application will receive an automated email reference request at the time the application is submitted.

EEO Statement
Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.