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$12

$26

$43

How much do graphic design professor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphic design professor in the United States is $26.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Graphic Design Professor, you need advanced expertise in design principles, a relevant degree (typically an MFA or equivalent), and a strong portfolio of professional work. Mastery of industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite and experience with digital design platforms are essential, along with teaching credentials or certifications. Excellent communication, mentorship, and curriculum development skills help you inspire and support students. These skills ensure effective teaching, up-to-date instruction, and the ability to prepare students for evolving industry demands.

What does a Graphic Design Professor do?

A Graphic Design Professor teaches students the principles and techniques of graphic design at the college or university level. They develop course materials, deliver lectures, lead workshops, and guide students through hands-on projects. In addition to teaching, they may also conduct research, participate in curriculum development, and mentor students pursuing careers in graphic design. Professors often have industry experience and help students build professional portfolios. Their goal is to prepare students for success in the creative industries.

What is the difference between Graphic Design Professor vs Graphic Designer?

AspectGraphic Design ProfessorGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Graphic Design or related field, teaching certification may be preferredPortfolio, relevant degree or certification in graphic design
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, classrooms, offices within educational institutionsDesign studios, corporate offices, freelance settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, art schoolsAdvertising agencies, design firms, freelance clients

While both roles involve graphic design skills, a Graphic Design Professor primarily teaches students in academic settings, focusing on education and curriculum development. In contrast, a Graphic Designer applies design skills to create visual content for clients or companies. The key difference lies in their work environment and primary responsibilities, with professors emphasizing teaching and research, and designers focusing on project execution and client work.

What are some common challenges faced by Graphic Design Professors when balancing teaching and staying current with industry trends?

Graphic Design Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including curriculum development, mentoring students, and participating in departmental activities, while also needing to stay updated on evolving design software and industry practices. Keeping coursework relevant requires ongoing professional development and sometimes freelance or collaborative work outside academia. Many professors find that integrating real-world projects and industry partnerships into their teaching helps bridge the gap and keeps both their skills and students' learning experiences fresh. Balancing these demands can be challenging, but it also offers opportunities for growth and innovation within the role.
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What cities are hiring for Graphic Design Professor jobs? Cities with the most Graphic Design Professor job openings:
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Graphic Design Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Professor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 21% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,951 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Assistant Professor, Graphic Design

Assistant Professor, Graphic Design

Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD • On-site

$58K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Teach four classes per semester, which may include beginning, intermediate, and advanced graphic design and web design courses.

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Logo
Institution
Black Hills State University
Working Title
Assistant Professor, Graphic Design
Posting Number
F01906P
Department
BHSU-College of Liberal Arts
Physical Location of Position (City)
Spearfish
Posting Text
Black Hills State University is seeking applicants for a full-time, tenure track position as an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design.
DUTIES:
Black Hills State University offers BFAs in photography, graphic design, and studio art, as well as a communication studies degree which includes graphic design courses. The course load is four classes per semester. Subjects to be taught may include beginning, intermediate, and advanced graphic design and web design. Experience in business or marketing applications of graphic and web design will be strongly considered.
THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT WILL HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE FOLLOWING:
  • Experience in Graphic design.
  • Expertise in the technology of the field (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite and related imaging software).

QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
  • MFA in graphic design or closely related field.

Preferred:
  • Web design.
  • Mobile application design.
  • Advertising & marketing Preference will be given to candidates with teaching experience and/or professional workshop level teaching experience in digital media, graphic design, advertising, marketing or related field. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

COMMENTS:
Sponsorship is not available for this position.
TO APPLY:
Applications must be made online at https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. Candidates must submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, transcripts, names and contact information for three professional references and at least 20 images of professional design work. This position is open until filled with a first review date of July 12, 2026, at 11PM MDT. For application assistance, please contact Human Resources at 605.642.6549. For questions specific to the position, please contact Gina Gibson, Professor of Graphic Design, at Gina.Gibson@bhsu.edu.
Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Cassie Maser at 605-642-6545 or Cassie.Maser@bhsu.edu. Employment is dependent upon a satisfactory background check.
Posting Date
06/12/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
07/12/2026
Advertised Salary
$58,000-60,000 depending on qualifications/experience
Duration of the Term
9 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent
100%
Tenure Status
Tenure Track
Proposed Rank
Assistant Professor
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type
Regular
Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
Black Hills State University is a masters-level state university with more than 3,600 students. The campus leads the region in sustainability efforts and maintains top academic programs in business (AACSB Accredited), exercise science, natural sciences, social sciences, the arts, mass communication, health sciences and education. The University, founded in 1883, is located in the northern Black Hills, a region abundant with outdoor activity and culture. Spearfish, S.D., is recognized as one of the top 10 most livable small towns in the USA and has also been recognized nationally for outdoor recreational opportunities. A second location, BHSU-RC, is in Rapid City, the state's second-largest city. BHSU, a member of NCAA Division II athletics, offers 14 sports, and has a legacy of champion rodeo teams.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Black Hills State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Black Hills State University and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.
Contact Information

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