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Assistant Professor Theatre Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Professor Theatre information

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$11K

$73.5K

$117.5K

How much do assistant professor theatre jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor theatre in the United States is $73,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant professor of theatre do?

An Assistant Professor of Theatre is an entry-level faculty member at a college or university who teaches theatre courses, conducts research or creative work, and participates in service to the department and institution. Their responsibilities often include directing or producing theatre productions, mentoring students, and contributing to curriculum development. They are also expected to publish scholarly work or engage in professional artistic activities to progress toward tenure.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant professor of theatre and how can they be managed?

Assistant Professors of Theatre often balance teaching a full course load, mentoring students, and engaging in creative or scholarly work such as directing productions or publishing research. Managing time between classroom responsibilities, production schedules, and departmental service can be challenging, especially during peak performance seasons. Building strong organizational habits, collaborating closely with colleagues, and seeking mentorship within the department can help navigate these demands. Additionally, adapting to evolving theatre technologies and pedagogical methods is important for professional growth and student engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of theatre, and why are they important?

To excel as an Assistant Professor of Theatre, you typically need an advanced degree (MFA or PhD) in theatre or a related field, along with experience in teaching, directing, or performance. Familiarity with learning management systems, digital media tools for theatre production, and curriculum development is highly beneficial. Strong communication, collaboration, mentorship, and creative problem-solving skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for effectively educating students, advancing scholarship, and contributing to vibrant academic and artistic communities.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Theatre vs Assistant Professor Drama?

AspectAssistant Professor TheatreAssistant Professor Drama
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Theatre, Drama, or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in Drama, Theatre, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, performing arts schoolsUniversities, colleges, performing arts institutions
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions focusing on Theatre artsAcademic institutions emphasizing Drama and Theatre studies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Assistant Professor Theatre and Assistant Professor Drama roles typically require advanced degrees in their respective fields and involve teaching, research, and performance-related activities within academic settings. The main difference lies in the specialization: Theatre often emphasizes performance, production, and stagecraft, while Drama may focus more on script analysis, playwriting, and theatrical literature. Both positions are common in universities and arts colleges, serving similar industry needs with slight specialization differences.

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What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor Theatre jobs?

Cities with the most Assistant Professor Theatre job openings:

What states have the most Assistant Professor Theatre jobs?

States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor Theatre jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Theatre jobs?

For Assistant Professor Theatre jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Theatre job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,541 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Theatre

San Diego, CA • On-site

University of San Diego
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

$7.5K - $7.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


University Of San Diego rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

463rd of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Professor, Theatre
Posting #: 5697
Position Status: Full-time regular
Location: San Diego
Position Type: Faculty, College of Arts and Sciences
Position Title & Department:
Assistant Professor, Theatre
Posting #
5697
Department Description:
The Department of Theatre offers a Bachelor of Arts program dedicated to developing well-rounded student artists who are prepared to shape a vibrant, culturally rich theatrical landscape. We believe students learn best by doing. Through hands-on practice, we foster an environment where students are empowered to experiment, take creative risks, and grow from every experience.
The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person.
University Description:
The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity's urgent challenges.
Detailed Description:
The Theatre Department at the University of San Diego invites applications for a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Theatre Studies. We are looking for a teacher-scholar who is as passionate about the "how" of teaching as they are about the "what" of their research.
Our department operates with a 3-3 teaching load, focusing on a mix of lower-division introductory courses and more focused upper-division classes. While we value and support active scholarship, excellence in the classroom is our highest priority. If you thrive on mentoring students and sparking a deep appreciation for the stage across centuries and cultures, you'll find a home here.
The successful candidate will lead courses in:
Theatre History
Performance Studies
Script Analysis
We are particularly interested in candidates whose research and experience extend beyond the traditions of the United States and Western Europe and who may further develop our curriculum to include the global breadth of performance. Other duties may include supporting departmental shows by serving as Dramaturg or Director, depending on skill-set.
Job Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in Theatre, Performance Studies, or a related field (ABD considered if degree is completed by start date).
• Demonstrated record of teaching excellence.
• A research agenda that informs and enriches their classroom practice.
Background check: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.
Posting Salary:
$7,500-$7,917 monthly: Excellent Benefits
The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including; medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers. Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer. USD: Human Resources: Benefits
The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.
Special Application Instructions:
For full consideration, applications should be completed and submitted by October 2nd, 2026.
1. Cover Letter addressing qualifications and suitability for the position.
2. Curriculum Vitae.
3. Teaching Statement: (Max 1 page) Outlining your philosophy and classroom methods and approach to inclusive pedagogy.
4. Research Statement: (Max 1 page) Outlining your current projects and future goals.
5. Sample of Scholarly Work: (Article, book chapter, or conference paper).
6. Contact information for three professional references.
Contact the Chair of the Department of Theatre, Nate Parde (nparde@sandiego.edu) with any questions.
For technical questions or difficulties, contact the Employment Services Team at jobs@sandiego.edu.
Additional Details:
The University of San Diego is a smoking and tobacco-free campus. For more information, visit www.sandiego.edu/smokefree.
Advertised: August 25, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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