Associate Professor of Communication Jobs
Associate Professor of Communication jobs are open across colleges, universities, and community colleges, from entry-level tenure-track to senior associate rank, with specializations in rhetoric, media studies, interpersonal communication, and organizational communication. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 5 of 165+ Associate Professor of Communication jobs
Department Summary:
Drake University is a forward-thinking community of scholars with a focus on active, collaborative learning and applied scholarship. Drake is in Des Moines, Iowa—a vibrant city that is nationally recognized for its quality of life and a wealth of opportunities for professional, social and civic engagement.
A Drake education couples hands-on training in professional skills with a strong liberal arts education. We strive to create a community of scholars that represents the complexity of the human experience in regards to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, economic status, gender identification, religion, age and physical abilities. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all our faculty, staff, students and visitors.
We develop and offer innovative programming serving a variety of audiences, including high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, as well as community members, industry professionals, and retirees. The successful applicant will join a collegial, welcoming, energetic and supportive community. Visit our website (drake.edu/sjmc) to learn more.
Job Summary:
The Drake School of Journalism and Mass Communication invites applications for a nine-month, consecutive term appointment of an assistant professor of sports media and communication, beginning in fall semester 2027. Drake’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication is accredited by ACEJMC and offers seven award-winning undergraduate majors: advertising, content strategy and publishing, digital media production, multimedia journalism, public relations, sports media and communication, and strategic political communication. The School also has a successful online Master of Arts in Communication with tracks in brand communication, communication leadership, and public policy and advocacy. The successful applicant will join a collegial, welcoming and supportive community of 14 full-time faculty and staff, and approximately 350 undergraduate and graduate students. We are looking for an innovative colleague who embraces cutting-edge technologies and who can help lead our School in preparing our students for the rapidly changing media landscape.
Professional experience working in sports media is required. Ideally the candidate will have experience in sports production and live broadcasts. Candidates may also bring front-of-camera experience to the role. A portfolio of work is expected. Evidence of teaching effectiveness is preferred. Master’s degree is preferred, but we are open to hiring an experienced professional with a bachelor’s degree for this consecutive-term appointment. Qualified candidates will have a demonstrated ability to train and mentor students and a history of early adoption of new technologies. The ability to work with colleagues across disciplines to lead students in conceiving, creating, delivering, and promoting rich multimedia content packages for all platforms, and for all types of media outlets, is essential. Depending on skills and interest, teaching assignments may include these undergraduate courses, both on campus and online: Sports Writing, Sports Production, Reporting and Writing Principles, Multimedia Lab, Multimedia Sound Design, Electronic Field Production, Reporting for Television and the Web, and special topics courses focused on interactive reality, data visualization, and emerging technologies. The qualified candidate may also teach online graduate classes in Digital Media Strategies, Emerging Media, and Multimedia Storytelling. Course load is seven courses (4/3) over the academic year. Duties also include academic and career mentoring for students, advising a student media organization or student sports production, and service to the University and community.
The search committee is particularly interested in candidates who, through their teaching, scholarship/creative activity, and service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
Minimum Qualifications:
- An advanced degree (MA, MS) in Communication, Media, Journalism or a related field or equivalent professional experience, which SJMC defines as “at least three to five years of broad and deep experience in real-world situations relevant to the discipline in which the faculty member would be teaching.”
- Potential for successful teaching of undergraduate courses in sports media production
- Production experience directly related to sports media, media production, television production, news production or related fields
- Record of professional achievement related to sports media production
- Excellent written communication skills
- Expressed desire to provide equal opportunity for all students
Preferred Qualifications:
While not everyone may meet all preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:
- Experience teaching at the college or university level
- Successful experience in the following:
- working collaboratively with others (e.g., committee service, being part of
a production team, co-teaching);
- working independently (e.g., supervising a production, course
development)
- Experience in Live Sports Productions as any of the following:
- Producer
- Director
- Technical Director
- Replay Operator
- Audio Operator
- Camera Operator
- Graphics Operator
- Talent (Play-By-Play/Analyst)
- Experience in Sports Newsrooms/Departments as any of the following:
- Anchor
- Reporter (MMJ)
- Videographer
- Editor
- Producer
- Director
- Demonstrated successful experience teaching undergraduate media production courses
- Experience connecting and collaborating with media industry professionals on the local, regional, and/or national levels
- Effective interpersonal communication skills
- Effective oral communication skills
- Effective classroom management skills
- Expressed commitment to Drake University’s mission and values.
- Terminal degree in communication, media or related field (MFA, PhD)
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Please complete the online application and attach (1) a letter of interest, (2) CV/Resume, (3) a statement about your experience in supporting the success of students from diverse backgrounds, and (4) the contact details for three references, including one for teaching (if a teaching position).
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of semi-finalists and finalists.
For full consideration, apply by November 9, 2026. The position will remain posted until filled .
Questions about this position can be directed to the search chair: Dr. Kelly Bruhn, dean of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, kelly.bruhn@drake.edu
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa, may be directed to Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu .
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Department Summary:
Drake University is a forward-thinking community of scholars with a focus on active, collaborative learning and applied scholarship. Drake is in Des Moines, Iowa—a vibrant city that is nationally recognized for its quality of life and a wealth of opportunities for professional, social and civic engagement.
A Drake education couples hands-on training in professional skills with a strong liberal arts education. We strive to create a community of scholars that represents the complexity of the human experience in regards to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, economic status, gender identification, religion, age and physical abilities. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all our faculty, staff, students and visitors.
We develop and offer innovative programming serving a variety of audiences, including high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, as well as community members, industry professionals, and retirees. The successful applicant will join a collegial, welcoming, energetic and supportive community. Visit our website (drake.edu/sjmc) to learn more.
Job Summary:
The Drake School of Journalism and Mass Communication invites applications for a nine-month, consecutive term appointment of an assistant professor of sports media and communication, beginning in fall semester 2027. Drake’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication is accredited by ACEJMC and offers seven award-winning undergraduate majors: advertising, content strategy and publishing, digital media production, multimedia journalism, public relations, sports media and communication, and strategic political communication. The School also has a successful online Master of Arts in Communication with tracks in brand communication, communication leadership, and public policy and advocacy. The successful applicant will join a collegial, welcoming and supportive community of 14 full-time faculty and staff, and approximately 350 undergraduate and graduate students. We are looking for an innovative colleague who embraces cutting-edge technologies and who can help lead our School in preparing our students for the rapidly changing media landscape.
Professional experience working in sports media is required. Ideally the candidate will have experience in sports production and live broadcasts. Candidates may also bring front-of-camera experience to the role. A portfolio of work is expected. Evidence of teaching effectiveness is preferred. Master’s degree is preferred, but we are open to hiring an experienced professional with a bachelor’s degree for this consecutive-term appointment. Qualified candidates will have a demonstrated ability to train and mentor students and a history of early adoption of new technologies. The ability to work with colleagues across disciplines to lead students in conceiving, creating, delivering, and promoting rich multimedia content packages for all platforms, and for all types of media outlets, is essential. Depending on skills and interest, teaching assignments may include these undergraduate courses, both on campus and online: Sports Writing, Sports Production, Reporting and Writing Principles, Multimedia Lab, Multimedia Sound Design, Electronic Field Production, Reporting for Television and the Web, and special topics courses focused on interactive reality, data visualization, and emerging technologies. The qualified candidate may also teach online graduate classes in Digital Media Strategies, Emerging Media, and Multimedia Storytelling. Course load is seven courses (4/3) over the academic year. Duties also include academic and career mentoring for students, advising a student media organization or student sports production, and service to the University and community.
The search committee is particularly interested in candidates who, through their teaching, scholarship/creative activity, and service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
Minimum Qualifications:
- An advanced degree (MA, MS) in Communication, Media, Journalism or a related field or equivalent professional experience, which SJMC defines as “at least three to five years of broad and deep experience in real-world situations relevant to the discipline in which the faculty member would be teaching.”
- Potential for successful teaching of undergraduate courses in sports media production
- Production experience directly related to sports media, media production, television production, news production or related fields
- Record of professional achievement related to sports media production
- Excellent written communication skills
- Expressed desire to provide equal opportunity for all students
Preferred Qualifications:
While not everyone may meet all preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:
- Experience teaching at the college or university level
- Successful experience in the following:
- working collaboratively with others (e.g., committee service, being part of
a production team, co-teaching);
- working independently (e.g., supervising a production, course
development)
- Experience in Live Sports Productions as any of the following:
- Producer
- Director
- Technical Director
- Replay Operator
- Audio Operator
- Camera Operator
- Graphics Operator
- Talent (Play-By-Play/Analyst)
- Experience in Sports Newsrooms/Departments as any of the following:
- Anchor
- Reporter (MMJ)
- Videographer
- Editor
- Producer
- Director
- Demonstrated successful experience teaching undergraduate media production courses
- Experience connecting and collaborating with media industry professionals on the local, regional, and/or national levels
- Effective interpersonal communication skills
- Effective oral communication skills
- Effective classroom management skills
- Expressed commitment to Drake University’s mission and values.
- Terminal degree in communication, media or related field (MFA, PhD)
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Please complete the online application and attach (1) a letter of interest, (2) CV/Resume, (3) a statement about your experience in supporting the success of students from diverse backgrounds, and (4) the contact details for three references, including one for teaching (if a teaching position).
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of semi-finalists and finalists.
For full consideration, apply by November 9, 2026. The position will remain posted until filled .
Questions about this position can be directed to the search chair: Dr. Kelly Bruhn, dean of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, kelly.bruhn@drake.edu
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa, may be directed to Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu .
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Associate Professor of Communication Jobs by Experience Level
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Find JobsAssociate Professor of Communication Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in associate professor of communication jobs.
- Ph.D. in Communication or a closely related field required at time of appointment
- Active peer-reviewed publication record demonstrating ongoing scholarly contribution
- Evidence of effective undergraduate and graduate classroom teaching
- Ability to teach courses in at least two communication sub-fields
- Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate student research
- Potential or demonstrated success securing external research funding
Tips for Your Associate Professor of Communication Job Search
Tailor your teaching portfolio to each posting
Committees read dozens of dossiers, so align your sample syllabi and teaching philosophy to the specific sub-field named in the job ad. A rhetorical studies department and a media studies program want different evidence of classroom expertise.
Lead your CV with peer-reviewed output
Hiring committees scan for publication record before anything else. Front-load your CV with peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, grouping them by status so reviewers instantly see what is published, in press, and under review.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists associate professor of communication openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Signal research trajectory in your cover letter
Committees hire for where your scholarship is going, not just where it has been. Dedicate one paragraph to your next project and explain how it connects to the department's existing strengths or graduate program offerings.
Prepare a job talk that bridges research and teaching
Most communication programs ask finalist candidates to deliver a public lecture. Practice presenting your current research in a way that also reveals how the work could anchor an undergraduate course or a graduate seminar.
Negotiate startup funds and course release before accepting
Once you receive an offer, ask about research startup funds, travel support, and first-semester course release in writing. These terms are often negotiable before you accept and rarely revisited after you sign.
Associate Professor of Communication Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most associate professor of communications?
The most active employers for associate professor of communications right now are University of Alabama, Lipscomb University, and University of Houston, and the most openings are in Texas, California, and Massachusetts, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Openings are distributed across public research universities, regional liberal arts colleges, and community colleges nationwide.
How many associate professor of communication jobs are remote?
About 20% of associate professor of communication openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting how rarely tenure-track and tenured faculty roles allow off-campus appointments. Online-focused institutions and continuing-education programs account for most of the remote positions, particularly in courses covering digital media, organizational communication, and health communication.
How do you become an associate professor of communication?
You typically start by completing a Ph.D. in Communication or a closely related discipline, then securing an assistant professor position and meeting your institution's tenure requirements over several years. Earning tenure and promotion to associate rank requires a sustained record of peer-reviewed publication, documented teaching effectiveness, and service contributions to your department and professional associations.
Can you get hired as an associate professor of communication with little experience?
Institutions occasionally hire candidates directly into associate rank when they arrive with tenure from another institution, a strong publication record, or significant industry expertise in a high-demand area such as health communication or digital media. Candidates without prior faculty experience can strengthen their profile through postdoctoral research positions, visiting instructor roles, and published work that demonstrates scholarly independence before applying.
What does the associate professor of communication interview process look like?
Most searches begin with a video screening interview conducted by the search committee, followed by a campus visit for finalists. The campus visit typically includes a public research presentation, a separate teaching demonstration, one-on-one meetings with faculty and administrators, and a conversation with current graduate students. The full process from application deadline to offer can extend across several months.
Where can I find and apply to associate professor of communication jobs?
You can find and apply to associate professor of communication jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from colleges and universities across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your research area and teaching background, then apply directly to each position that fits.
See All 165+ Associate Professor of Communication Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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