Visiting Professor of Costume Design

Visiting Professor of Costume Design

Ohio University's School of Theater seeks a faculty member in Costume Design to join us as we prepare to move into the dynamic Patton Center for Arts Education; a new building designed with a focus on the next generation of multi-discipline artists. With alumni working in arts industries worldwide, the School of Theater has built its reputation on the development of individual artistic capacity.

We strive to encourage our students to realize their own unique potential and vision. This faculty member would provide artistic and educational leadership for the MFA and BFA costume design programs, and contribute to the delivery of the overall curriculum of the Production Design and Technology Area. With a balanced focus on both the theoretical/aesthetic phenomena of design and the practical applications of realized productions, the School of Theater values process-based methodologies that prepare students to be theater innovators for the 21st century.

The Production Design and Technology program is committed to a collaborative design process and professional training in theatrical design and technology, preparing students for careers in a full range of markets. The School of Theater is comprised of 26 faculty and staff who support over 200 undergraduates and 30 graduate students in BFA and MFA programs. We produce a full season of shows each academic year and are proud to host Tantrum Theater, Ohio University's professional theater, as well as Vibrancy Theater, a student organization dedicated to uplifting and broadcasting BIPOC people in theater at the university and beyond.

This is a nine-month appointment beginning on August 16, 2026. This position may be renewable up to three years depending on performance and funding.

Responsibilities:

• Teach a rotation of modular studio classes in the candidate's area of specialization including but not limited to Costume Design, Costume History, Rendering Techniques, etc.
• Teach interdisciplinary design classes within the broader design area as applicable e.g.:
  Design History, Design Aesthetics, Production Design, Scenography, etc.
• Teach and supervise wardrobe for School of Theater productions.
• Supervise and mentor student costume designers throughout their production processes, including concept development, collaboration, and documentation.
• Facilitate professional internships for MFA students.
• Participate in production planning, student recruitment, and service on academic committees as assigned by the Director of the School of Theater.
• Depending on student capacity, costume design for productions may also be required. This position requires days, nights, and weekends, including, but not limited to, technical and dress rehearsals. Hours required as dictated by academic and production schedules.

Minimum Qualifications:

MA or MFA terminal degree in Costume Design, or closely related field by the start date of appointment or may request approval for consideration using the equivalent or tested experience outlined in Ohio University policy 18.001.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong background in professional theatrical design and/or entertainment industry, with knowledge/connections to major regional theater markets. Substantive experience in the teaching of theater. Demonstrative ability to reimagine and decolonize typical "canonical" curriculum by engaging with new works that investigate perspectives beyond those of our predominately Western culture. The potential for continued professional design activity. Ability to work in a collaborative relationship with faculty, staff, and students of all areas.

Strong background in professional theatrical design and/or entertainment industry, with connections to the New York or other significant professional theater markets is an asset.

Department:
School of Theater

Pay Rate:
Salary is commensurate with experience and credentials and is accompanied by our generous university benefits such as tuition for self and dependents, a comprehensive insurance package (including but not limited to health, prescription, vision, dental, and life insurance), an excellent retirement plan including company…