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Graphic Design Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... professors to administrative assistants and administrators, physical plant operations, campus ... Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in graphic design, digital arts and interactive media.

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Graphic Design Professor information

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How much do graphic design professor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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.
More about Graphic Design Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Graphic Design Professor jobs? Cities with the most Graphic Design Professor job openings:
What states have the most Graphic Design Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Graphic Design Professor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Professor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,951 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

Freed-Hardeman University

Henderson, TN

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

The College of Arts and Sciences at Freed-Hardeman University invites applications for a full-time, tenure track position at the instructor or assistant level in graphic design. This position is responsible for teaching undergraduate courses, advising, engaging in scholarly activity, initiating programs, and conducting committee work as assigned. This position is responsible for teaching courses within the Art curriculum that include, but are not limited to: Two-Dimensional Design, Graphic Design Fundamentals, Graphic Design I, Graphic Design II, Typography, and Color Theory.  

Department:    

Fine Arts

Status:   

Full Time, Tenure Track Faculty (9 Month)

Reports To:

Chair, Fine Arts Department

Application Deadline:

Application review will continue until the position is filled. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Teach 27 hours, as assigned, annually within the Department of Fine Arts.
  • Serve as the academic advisor for departmental majors.
  • Engage in scholarly research.
  • Engage in service to the department, college, University, and students. 
  • Initiate and develop new programs within the Department of Fine Arts. 
  • Serve on University committees as assigned.
  • Attend daily Chapel.
  • Participate in program, department, college, or faculty meetings, as requested.
  • Participate in University recruitment activities.
  • Abide by University policies governing behavior and in fulfillment of position and contract requirements
  • This job description shall include, but is not necessarily limited to, the above duties. This position may temporarily perform other duties assigned to maintain operations and services.


Requirements

Requirements:


  • An active member in good standing of the churches of Christ
  • An earned terminal degree in graphic design or other related field. Master's degrees are also considered at the instructor level. 
  • Strong core competencies in design practice, technology, and software are essential. Must be fluent in Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Evidence of prior scholarship of discovery, integration, application, and/or teaching and learning is preferred. Commitment to ongoing scholarship is required. 
  • A demonstrated history, competence in, and commitment to quality teaching at the undergraduate level that create and maintain learning environments conducive to active and engaged learning, specifically in the area of graphic design.


Salary:


Commensurate with background and experience.


Benefits:


As described on the human resources website. http://www.fhu.edu/jobs


Freed-Hardeman University is an academic community, associated with churches of Christ, which is dedicated to providing excellent undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship, and service.


Pursuant to this mission and Section 703(e)(2) of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Freed-Hardeman University exercises a preference for applicants active within the churches of Christ. Freed-Hardeman University complies with all applicable federal and state non-discrimination laws and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, or prior military service in the administration of its employment practices.