Assistant Professor - Advertising and Public Relations

Assistant Professor - Advertising and Public Relations

Marshall University’s W. Page Pitt School of Journalism & Mass Communications invites applications for a nine‑month, tenure‑track Assistant Professor in Advertising and Public Relations, beginning August 2026. The position requires a background that emphasizes public relations and/or strategic communications and a commitment to innovative, student‑centered teaching and scholarly activity.

Position title:

Assistant Professor – Advertising & Public Relations
Position type:
Tenure‑track – Nine months – Beginning in August 2026

The School of Journalism & Mass Communications, part of Marshall University’s College of Arts & Media, provides a student‑focused education that combines rigorous academics with hands‑on professional and experiential learning. Programs prepare students for careers in journalism, advertising, public relations, media production, and related communications fields.

• Teach undergraduate courses, including AD & PR Campaign Management, AD & PR Continuity Writing, Public Relations Planning, Research Analytics, and Public Relations Case Studies.
• Serve as faculty adviser for the Marshall University Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter and assist in advising the college communications agency, Collective 37.
• Advise and mentor students on academic and professional development, internships, and campus service activities.
• Contribute to curriculum assessment and development, collaborate with colleagues, and participate in school, college, and university service activities and community initiatives.
• Engage in scholarly and professional activity related to public relations and/or strategic communications commensurate with Marshall University’s R2 classification.

• Terminal degree in Public Relations, Mass Communications, Strategic Communications, or a closely related field (ABD considered).
• Demonstrated professional experience in public relations, strategic communications, and/or a related area.
• Evidence of effective teaching or strong potential for effective college‑level instruction.
• Record of, or evidence of, strong potential for scholarly and professional activity related to public relations and/or strategic communications.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in utilizing social media and commitment to student‑centered learning welcoming students from all perspectives and backgrounds.

• Health insurance through West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) with diverse plans.
• Life insurance – Basic term life insurance ($10,000) at no cost.
• Retirement plans – Participation in the mandated retirement plan (401(a)).
• Annual and sick leave – Up to 24 days of annual leave per year and up to 18 days of sick leave per year.
• Educational/Tuition benefits for eligible employees and dependents.
• Wellness and career development programs through PEIA and university initiatives.