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Graphic Design Professor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Graphic Design Professor information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$23

$37

How much do graphic design professor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphic design professor in Michigan is $23.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Graphic Design Professor jobs in Michigan?

For Graphic Design Professor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Graphic Design Professor job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,767 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Art History

Oakland University

Rochester, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Oakland University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Visiting Assistant Professor of Art History
Department
0138 - Art, Art History and Design
Requisition No.
0000824
Job Description Summary
The Department of Art, Art History and Design at Oakland University invites candidates to apply for the position of Visiting Professor of Art History to begin August 15 2026. The area of specialization is open. Preference will be given to candidates specializing in Modern and Contemporary Art. A Ph.D. in art history or a qualified proximate field is required. The ideal candidate would be strongly devoted to undergraduate education and student success, and engaged in conducting innovative research in their field of expertise.
This position carries a six course teaching load per academic year. Teaching responsibilities include introductory surveys, upper-level courses in one's areas of specialization, and methodology courses. We seek an educator who can generate broad interest among undergraduate general education students in lower-level survey courses and can inspire specific interest in upper-level courses in their areas of specialization. Upper-level courses should appeal to students of art history, graphic design, and studio art. The ability to teach the history and theory of graphic design would be an asset.
Full consideration will be given to applications received by June 26. We will conduct interviews via videoconferencing.
This is a one year position, potentially renewable.
Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD in Art History (or ABD if completed by August 15, 2026)
  • evidence of teaching experience
  • evidence of an active academic agenda

Special Instructions to Applicants
Application materials will only be accepted through OU's application system https://jobs.oakland.edu/postings/37419
To apply, upload the following:
Required:
  • CV
  • Cover letter
  • Teaching statement
  • Transcript (unofficial)
  • Names and contact information for three references. The system will generate an email to references with a link for uploading reference letters.

Optional:
  • Sample Syllabus
  • Publication

For full consideration, apply by June 26. Review of applications will be finalized shortly thereafter. Should the review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by email. Initial interviews will be conducted via Zoom. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
School/College & Department/Program Summary
Our goal in the Department of Art, Art History and Design is to cultivate a global understanding of art and visual culture by developing visual literacy, production techniques, and transferable skills. Our internationally active faculty aspire to produce culturally informed citizens. We value broadening the traditional art historical and design disciplines by offering diverse and innovative approaches to research and art making. Our top priority is to produce highly competent graduates with versatile creative proficiencies congruent with the marketplace.
The Department of Art, Art History and Design has nearly 350 majors in B.A. programs in Art, Art History, and Graphic Design. Our students engage in experiential learning through their participation in various opportunities, such as:
  • AH3800 Museum Studies in Art History, where students learn an overview of the museum profession, management and care of collections, and the registration, conservation, exhibition and interpretation of art objects in a museum setting.
  • Various art history courses include field trips to art museums in locations such as Toledo, Ohio, Chicago, and Toronto, as well as the College Arts Association annual conference.
  • ART4999 Senior Thesis in Studio Art, where students exhibit their work in the Oakland University Art Gallery.
  • Various art courses include field trips to locations such as Signal Return Press to learn printmaking, commercial photography studios, working artist studios, art museums, galleries, and private collections such as the Maxine and Stuart Frankel Foundation.
  • DES3900: Entrepreneurial Design, where students bring their products to market.
  • Various graphic design courses provide real-world client projects, such as recent work for Detroit Baseball Dinner, OU Men's and Women's Basketball teams, Hope Shelter, Oakland Forward, and the OU Center for Civic Engagement.

For more information about the Department of Art, Art History and Design, visit https://www.oakland.edu/art-arthistory/
More About Oakland University
The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor's degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University's Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan.
Pay Basis
Open Date
05/26/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Job Category
Visiting Faculty
EEO Statement
Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.

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