Assistant Professor of Public Relations

Assistant Professor of Public Relations

Department: Department of Communications, College of Communications, California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)
Location: Fullerton, CA
Position type: Tenure‑track Assistant Professor

The Department of Communications invites applications for a tenure‑track Assistant Professor in Public Relations, with an appointment beginning August 2027. The role involves teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, mentoring students, and conducting research or creative work in public relations, strategic communications, or related disciplines.

• Teach a range of public relations courses, including PR writing, ethics, corporate and nonprofit PR, and senior capstone projects.
• Mentor and advise students on academic and career development.
• Maintain an active research agenda aligned with tenure requirements.
• Participate in departmental service, such as student‑run agencies, program development, and accreditation activities.
• Teach evening and graduate‑level courses as needed.

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in mass communications, strategic communications, communications, or a related field.
• Professional experience in public relations, including agency, corporate, in‑house, nonprofit, or similar roles.
• Demonstrated potential for excellence in undergraduate teaching.
• Ability to balance teaching, scholarship, and collaboration with colleagues.
• Ability to teach a wide range of public relations classes.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with diverse audiences.

• Evidence of scholarly research or creative accomplishments in public relations or related fields.
• Experience incorporating digital communications strategy, social media analytics, and emerging technologies into courses.
• Membership in PRSA or equivalent professional associations.
• Experience with accreditation self‑study, curriculum development, and student assessment.
• Leadership of programs emphasizing student mentoring and professional engagement.
• Professional network with industry leaders.

Annual salary range: $6,221 to $13,224 per month. Anticipated hiring range: $6,851 to $6,985 per month. Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include health, vision, dental, dependent fee waiver, on‑campus child care, retirement plan through CSUF, and other standard CSU benefits.

California State University, Fullerton is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, color, ethnicity, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Submit an online application by October 1, 2026, including cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement, and inclusive excellence statement (≤ 500 words). Applications should also include three reference contacts. Send the application to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). For questions, contact Frank Russell at frussell.