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Title: Assistant Professor - Graphic Design

Application Review Date: 2/2/2026, opened until filled

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Job Description

The Department of Art at Radford University invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Graphic Design. This is a 9-month, tenure-track appointment with a starting date in August 2026.
The Department seeks an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design who is student-centered, collaborative, and energetic. An ability to spark curiosity, inspire experimentation, and instill professional habits is desired for the position. Candidates should be prepared to teach all levels of graphic design and contribute to portfolio reviews. Expertise in 3D computer graphics, 3D modeling, graphics visualization, and/or digital illustration is preferred. As a full-time, tenure-track appointment, candidates should be prepared to perform effectively in teaching, creative scholarship, and service. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to: collaborative oversight and operation of the graphic design program and its lab; supervising internships; mentoring and advising undergraduate and graduate students; developing courses and curricula; contributing to retention and recruitment efforts; and contributing to a positive and productive departmental culture.
The Department of Art is NASAD accredited with BFA, BS, BA, and MFA degrees. The Department's primary programs are graphic design, studio art, art education, and art history & museum studies. 9 full-time faculty and several part-time instructors serve a diverse student body of 200+ majors, of which 30% are first-generation students, 30% identify as a minority or bi-racial, and 40% are in financial need. The department plays a major role in the cultural life of campus and the community. It has an annual artist-in-residence program, a visiting artist series, and numerous internal and external exhibitions at the Radford University Art Museum.
The new faculty member will join the department at an historic moment. The Artis Center for Adaptive Innovation and Creativity opened recently. At 178,000 square feet, it is the largest academic building on campus. The Artis Center features design labs, art studios, digital labs, makerspaces, performance venues, training suites, and general classrooms. All spaces are fully equipped and well-resourced.
Radford University is distinguished by its placement of student learning at the heart of the institution. The University currently serves approximately 8,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs, many of them nationally recognized. Radford University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university's grounds and facilities are beautifully maintained and designed.
The City of Radford, VA is nestled along the New River in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The region offers an abundance of recreation at nearby rivers, lakes, parks, and forests. Dozens of biking and hiking trails are accessible within a 30-minute drive, including access points to the Appalachian Trail, Jefferson National Forest, and the New River Trail. Downtown Radford is home to a variety of locally-owned shops and restaurants. Nearby cities of Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Floyd, and Roanoke also add to the region's cultural vibrancy. Farther afield, Radford is located a few hours from Asheville and Charlotte, NC; Bristol and Knoxville, TN; Richmond, VA; and Washington, DC

Required Qualifications

A master's degree in graphic design or a related discipline, or a bachelor's degree with significant professional experience. A strong record of professional practice and industry experience in graphic design.

Preferred Qualifications:

MFA or MDes in graphic design or a related discipline. Record of excellence in one or more of the following areas: user experience design, motion graphics, illustration, immersive experiences, environmental graphics, data visualization, web/interaction, typography, branding, and/or design research.Preference given to candidates with:1. Advanced skills in graphic design and emerging technologies.2. Professional experience in graphic design or a related field with a high-quality portfolio. 3. Teaching experience at the college level.4. Record of effectiveness in teaching, advising, mentoring, creative scholarship, and service.

Employment Conditions: 

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Hours Per Week: 

Months per Year: 9

Statement of Economic Interest Required: No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Teaching & Research Faculty

Normal Work Schedule: 

Employee Classification: Assistant Professor

Department: Art, Dept of

Salary: $57,000 - $80,000

Department Contact Name: Ken Smith

Department Contact Phone: 540-831-5778

Department Contact Email: ksmith507@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years' of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.