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

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

• Teach undergraduate courses in film, video and multimedia production, including:

• 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:

• Engage in scholarly, creative and/or professional activity appropriate to the discipline

• Participate in departmental, college and university service, including committee work

_ Required _

• Terminal degree (M.F.A. or Ph.D.) in film, media production or a closely related field

• Demonstrated expertise in film and video production, including:

• 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

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 content

The 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 .

Abilene Christian…