Job description
Posting Number: 20260044FAC
Number of Vacancies: 1
About Murray State
Murray State blends educational opportunities found at research institutions with collaborative interactions among students, faculty and staff found at smaller universities. Students receive personalized attention from supportive faculty and staff as the University offers a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Murray State University places our highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching, blending the range of educational opportunities often experienced at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities.
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Anticipated Start Date: August 2026
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
Murray State University seeks an Instructor of Theatre Arts – Dance. This instructor position will primarily have a musical theatre focus. The instructor will teach a total of 12 credit hours each semester with one course reassignment when choreographing a production on the mainstage season. Courses include a University Studies Dance Appreciation course, creative movement, two levels each of ballet, tap, musical theatre dance, contemporary, jazz, special topics, and other classes as needed. The faculty member will supervise, advise, and mentor students in the department, as well as, assist in preparation for job interviews, conference attendance, and other professional situations. The department utilizes two theatres (350-seat proscenium, 60-seat black box), dance studio, and shops. Instructors are required to perform service within the department.
The Theatre Program offers a B.A./B.S. in Theatre, Theatre/Film, and Theatre/Musical Theatre, with minors in Dance/Movement, Musical Theatre, and Theatre and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).
Minimum Education Requirements
MFA in Dance.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Experience evaluating and auditioning dancers for production and program acceptance is required. Experience working with other faculty in a classroom and production situations that brings acting, dance, and vocal techniques together. Experience as part of a season musical selection committee and experience working with stage managers, designers, actors, directors, and crew on theatrical and dance productions is also required.
Annual Salary: $41,296 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Pay Plan: Faculty II<
How to apply
Murray State University endorses the intent of all federal and state laws created to prohibit discrimination. Murray State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status or disability in employment or application for employment, admissions or the provision of services and provides, upon request, reasonable accommodation including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford individuals with disabilities equal access to participate in all programs and activities.
