Assistant Professor of Graphic Arts

Friends University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty member in Graphics Arts, beginning in August 2024. The position is a nine-month faculty appointment and reports to the Chair of the Division of Fine Arts. The ideal candidate will hold an MFA with successful teaching experience.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY & THE COMMUNITY

Friends University offers a complement of traditional undergraduate majors, non-traditional adult degree-completion programs, and professional graduate programs. Founded in 1898, the University is situated on a beautiful park-like campus in the heart of Wichita, Kansas. Wichita is a vibrant urban city with all the charms of a small town. Our great community offers something for everyone and is rich in arts, education, leisure, and commercial resources.

Friends University seeks to hire faculty who will embrace our mission and celebrate our commitment to equipping students to honor God in their personal, professional, and spiritual lives by adhering to the University’s RISE Core Values (Respect, Inclusion, Service and Excellence).

The mission of the University is:
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual, and professional lives.

EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Teaching assignments will be based upon the candidate’s credentials and the division’s curricular needs. Courses include Graphic Design, Folio, Portfolio, Design Lab, and Internship. Contribute to the ongoing review, refinement, and development of the graphic design curriculum to ensure its relevance, rigor, and alignment with industry standards and emerging trends in the areas of user experience design. The successful candidate will also be expected to participate in recruiting prospective students for the Visual Arts program.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will hold a terminal degree in Graphic Design with prior university-level teaching experience. Applications are also welcome from individuals with advanced degrees in UX and/or Design, Visual, or Graphic Communications. Demonstrated proficiency in industry-standard design software is also desired. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset to work effectively with students, colleagues, and across divisions.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

The university prefers to hire a candidate who holds an MFA with 3-5 years of college teaching experience, a record of scholarly achievement, and experience coordinating a university visual arts program.

Rank and salary are commensurate with education and experience.

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. A portfolio of previous work and student-led projects is preferred.

The position starts August 2024.
Application deadline is May 5, 2024.

Please visit our employment site at www.friends.edu/employment to apply. Only applications submitted through this Friends University website application process will be accepted.