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Film Studies Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... adjunct professor to teach Introduction to Video Production beginning August 24, 2026. The ... MA or MFA, or 18 graduate credit hours in Film Studies, Media Production, Communication, or a ...

Position Information Position Title Assistant/Associate Professor of Communication Job Summary The ... teaching/expertise in film studies, nonverbal communication, intercultural communication ...

Film Student Aides

Manhattan, NY

$16.75 - $21/hr

... work directly with the professors of specific BFA Acting for Film and Media (AFaM) courses ... FEDERAL WORK STUDY ONLY - to be considered for this position, applicants must be awarded and accept ...

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Film Studies Professor information

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$58K

$114.8K

$189K

How much do film studies professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for film studies professor in the United States is $114,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Film Studies Professor do?

A Film Studies Professor teaches courses on the history, theory, and criticism of film and cinema. They guide students in analyzing films from various genres, periods, and cultural contexts while fostering critical thinking and appreciation for the art of filmmaking. In addition to teaching, they may also conduct academic research, publish scholarly articles, and participate in film festivals or conferences. Their work often involves staying current with new trends in cinema and integrating diverse perspectives into their curriculum.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Film Studies Professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Film Studies Professor, you typically need an advanced degree (such as a PhD) in film studies or a related field, along with a strong background in film analysis, theory, and history. Familiarity with digital media tools, learning management systems (LMS), and film editing software is often important for both research and teaching. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and mentorship skills help foster engaging classroom discussions and support student growth. These skills and qualifications are vital for effectively teaching complex film concepts, guiding research, and inspiring the next generation of film scholars.

How do Film Studies Professors typically balance teaching, research, and creative projects within their roles?

Film Studies Professors often divide their time between teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, conducting scholarly research, and pursuing creative film projects. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, especially during peak academic periods, but most institutions provide some flexibility through sabbaticals, research grants, or adjusted teaching loads. Collaboration with colleagues from other departments and participation in film festivals or conferences are also common and help enrich both research and classroom experiences. Effective time management and clear communication with department heads are essential to successfully manage these diverse duties.

What is the difference between Film Studies Professor vs Film Critic?

AspectFilm Studies ProfessorFilm Critic
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Film Studies or related fieldNo formal degree required, but extensive knowledge of film history and theory
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic settingsMedia outlets, newspapers, online platforms
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, academiaMedia companies, entertainment industry, journalism
Common Search & ComparisonEducational roles, academic careersFilm analysis, media critique

While both roles involve a deep understanding of film, a Film Studies Professor primarily teaches and researches in academic settings, often holding advanced degrees. A Film Critic analyzes and reviews films for media outlets, focusing on critique and audience engagement. The two careers overlap in film knowledge but differ in purpose, environment, and credentials.

More about Film Studies Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Film Studies Professor jobs? Cities with the most Film Studies Professor job openings:
What states have the most Film Studies Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Film Studies Professor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Film Studies Professor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,792 per year, or $55.2 per hour.
Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Film History

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Film History

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


University Of Notre Dame rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Department of Film, Television, and Theatre (FTT) at the University of Notre Dame is seeking a candidate for an appointment as a tenure-track assistant professor of film history with a starting date of August 2027. While any area of film history is welcome, we would particularly welcome scholars in areas such as animation, industry, African American film, and national cinemas from the Global South and scholars whose work aligns with one or more of the university's interdisciplinary units such as the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies, the Institute for Latino Studies, Africana Studies, and/or Gender Studies. Responsibilities include undergraduate teaching (2 courses per semester) in the candidate's area of expertise as well as core courses in the film concentration and/or service courses in the College of Arts and Letters.
Qualifications
  • Candidates at the entry level must have completed all requirements for a PhD degree or have completed all but dissertation in film studies or a closely related field. Candidates at the advanced assistant professor level must have a PhD in film studies or a closely related field.
  • Candidates must have experience in or describe their potential for successful college-level teaching in a liberal arts environment.
  • Candidates must articulate a clear research trajectory and experience in or describe their potential for publishing in top-tier academic journals and presses.

Application Instructions
Job applicants should submit:
• a curriculum vitae listing three references with contact information
• a cover letter describing the candidate's:
  • research, with a description of methods and goals;
  • future career trajectory and plans for future projects;
  • teaching experience and pedagogic principles; and how their courses and pedagogy will enhance FTT's curriculum.

The committee will continue to vet applications until the position is filled, but candidates should send materials no later than 1 November, 2026 for fullest consideration.
Questions about the position can be directed to Professor Jim Collins, Chair of the Search Committee, email: collins@nd.edu

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