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The University of Akron

Assistant Professor, Graphic Design

The University of Akron
Akron, OH Full time Posted 1d ago
Adobe After Effects Adobe Creative Suite Assistant Professor Design Design Tools Figma Graphic Design Motion Design Touchdesigner Visual Design
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Job Description

Tenure-track Assistant Professor role in the BFA in Graphic Design program at The University of Akron (onsite in Akron, OH), with an anticipated start date of August 2027.

Responsibilities

  • Teach undergraduate graphic design courses across all levels of the curriculum
  • Maintain a robust creative research or professional practice
  • Contribute to curriculum development and ongoing program assessment
  • Participate in departmental service, committee work, and program support
  • Support student success through mentorship and engagement

Requirements

  • MFA in Graphic Design or an equivalent terminal degree
  • Minimum 2–3 years of teaching experience
  • Demonstrated breadth of creative research or professional practice across related graphic design areas, plus defined expertise in one or more areas such as:
    • Typography
    • Motion
    • Interactive design
    • Illustration
    • Other related field
  • Ability to contribute complementary skills to the existing faculty
  • Multidisciplinary graphic designer with strength in typography, ideation, and iterative design processes
  • Proficiency with industry-standard tools, including Adobe Creative Suite and Figma
  • Ability to adapt to emerging technologies and integrate evolving tools and practices into teaching
  • Evidence of strong visual communication skills across print, digital, and/or interactive platforms

Technologies (as listed)

  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Figma
  • Affinity
  • Sketch
  • Procreate
  • Blender
  • After Effects
  • Premier
  • Cavalry
  • TouchDesigner
  • 3D printers
  • Laser cutters
  • Vinyl cutters

Preferred Qualifications

  • Coordination of undergraduate programs
  • Professional experience in graphic design or related fields
  • Experience developing undergraduate curriculum
  • Ability to manage budgets and supervise student workers
  • Willingness to support the Student Services printing lab operations
  • Experience with emerging and expanded design and media tools beyond InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator (including Affinity, Sketch, Procreate, Blender, After Effects, Premier, Cavalry, TouchDesigner, 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, among others)
  • Experience with motion design, video shooting/editing, interactive design, or spatial/experiential design practices
  • Demonstrated ability to connect professional practice to teaching and curriculum development

Application Instructions

  • Attach Curriculum Vitae
  • Attach Cover Letter
  • Attach Teaching Philosophy
  • Attach Portfolio of Student Work
  • Attach Statement of Creative Practice
  • Attach Portfolio of Professional Work
  • Provide names and contact information for three professional references

Application Deadline

  • Review of applicants will begin December 21, 2026

Compensation & Status

  • Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • FLSA status: United States of America (Exempt)
  • Union affiliation (if applicable): American Association of University Professors

Contact

Email: [email protected]

Background Check

  • Offers are contingent upon verification of credentials and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check
  • Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search

Non-Discrimination

  • Equal Education and Employment Institution
  • Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans

State of Residence

  • Work performed as an employee of the University is expected to be performed in Ohio

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