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Assistant Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication (Film and Digital Media

Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX, United States


ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Church of Christ. This position requires the employee to be a professing Christian and to be willing to support the Christian mission of ACU.The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Abilene Christian University seeks a full-time, tenure-track faculty member in Film and Media Creation to support the growth of its film and digital storytelling curriculum within an ACEJMC-accredited program. The position emphasizes teaching undergraduate courses in film, video and multimedia production, while contributing to curriculum development, student mentorship and experiential learning initiatives such as student film projects and collaborative media work. The successful candidate will join a collaborative faculty in an ACEJMC-accredited program and play a central role in advancing the university’s growing emphasis on film, video and digital storytelling.This position supports the department’s expansion in film and media creation, including the development of a comprehensive film curriculum that integrates theory, technical skill and creative practice. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise across the full production pipeline – from concept development and cinematography to post-production and digital distribution – and a commitment to mentoring students in hands-on, experiential learning environments.The ideal candidate will have expertise across the full production process – from concept development through post-production and distribution – along with professional or creative experience and a commitment to hands-on instruction. A terminal degree (M.F.A. or Ph.D.) is preferred, though exceptional industry experience may substitute.Faculty are expected to remain active in scholarly or creative work and participate in departmental and university service. The department prioritizes experiential learning through student media platforms, including broadcast, digital news, radio and advertising/PR, and is expanding its film initiative. As part of a Christian university, the successful candidate will also contribute to ACU’s mission of integrating faith, learning and leadership.**Position Overview**## **Primary Responsibilities*** Teach undergraduate courses in film, video and multimedia production, including: + Introductory media production + Film production and storytelling + Documentary and digital media production + Advanced production and post-production courses* Contribute to curriculum development and program growth in film and media creation* Mentor and advise students pursuing careers in film, media and related industries* Support experiential learning initiatives, including: + Student film projects and festivals + Collaborative media projects across campus* Engage in scholarly, creative and/or professional activity appropriate to the discipline* Participate in departmental, college and university service, including committee work## **Qualifications*****Required**** Terminal degree (M.F.A. or Ph.D.) in film, media production or a closely related field + Exceptional candidates with significant professional achievement may be considered without a terminal degree* Demonstrated expertise in film and video production, including: + Camera operation and cinematography + Lighting and audio production + Editing and post-production workflows* Evidence of professional practice, creative work or industry experience* Teaching experience at the collegiate level or strong potential for teaching excellence***Preferred**** Ability to teach across multiple areas in the JMC curriculum* Experience in documentary storytelling, narrative film or emerging media* Familiarity with industry-standard tools and workflows* Experience mentoring student productions or supervising collaborative media projects## **Department and Program Context**The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication emphasizes a hands-on, experiential learning model across its majors in journalism, multimedia and advertising/public relations. Faculty work closely with students in a mentorship-driven environment that prioritizes professional preparation and ethical storytelling.Students gain experience through four primary media platforms:* A student-run digital news organization* An NPR-affiliated radio station* A student-run advertising and public relations agency* A high-definition broadcast studio supporting live production, including ESPN+ sports contentThe department also supports a growing film initiative, including student film festivals and expanded production opportunities aligned with industry trends and workforce demand for film and video professionals .## **Institutional Mission**Abilene Christian University is committed to educating students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. Faculty are expected to integrate faith with teaching, scholarship and professional activity, contributing to a Christ-centered academic community.ACU does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, disability, genetic information, national or ethnic origin in employment opportunities, in keeping with applicable state and federal law.ACU is committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment and protecting the university's financial and physical assets. Therefore, Abilene Christian University conducts background checks on all candidates for employment in security sensitive positions. As a current employee, it will be determined if you need an additional background check upon your hire.Abilene Christian University is the premier university for the education of Christ-centered, global leaders, offering an exceptional education to about 6,700 students annually from 51 states and territories, and 42 nations. This private, comprehensive university, founded in 1906 in Abilene, Texas, offers 88 baccalaureate majors that include more than 175 areas of study, 77 areas of study in master’s degree and specialist programs, and five doctoral programs. It has been ranked as one of the top institutions in the nation for undergraduate research, undergraduate teaching, first-year experiences, service learning, study abroad and learning communities. ACU’s mission is to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. ACU Dallas, a branch campus in Addison, Texas, is the home of the university’s online undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.Contact Human Resources at humanresources@acu.edu or call 325-674-2359.
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