Graduate Teaching​/Coaching Assistantship in Communication and Media + Speech& Debate

2026-27 Graduate Teaching / Coaching Assistantship in Communication and Media + Speech& Debate

To be considered for this position, a complete application will include the following attachments:
1) A cover letter addressing the position and your qualifications, specifically in response to the following prompts:
a. How might your academic background inform your teaching of communication?
b. What might be your top three learning goals for students in the Fundamentals of Communication course?
c. How would teaching introductory communication courses assist you in accomplishing your professional goals?
d. What prior experience do you have with public speaking, debate, or performance, and how would supporting the Speech and Debate program contribute to your professional goals?
2) A resume / curriculum vitae
3) A link to a recorded video of a teaching or performance coaching demonstration that accomplishes the following goals:
a. Identifies a concept related to communication and media, OR to speech and debate or storytelling/performance participation.
b. Explains the importance of this concept to an undergraduate student’s understanding of communication and media, or speech, debate, storytelling, or performance.
c. Demonstrates your ability to convey that concept clearly and succinctly.
d. Does not exceed 10 minutes.

The materials submitted along with your application for admission to the program will also be considered when determining graduate assistantship appointments.

The Department of Communication and Media is seeking on-campus / in-person Graduate Teaching and Coaching Assistants (GTAs) for the 2026-27 academic year. This hybrid position will involve teaching a reduced load (typically one section) of the basic communication course each semester and assisting the Director of Forensics in coaching and program administration for the Forensics / Speech and Debate Program, which supports on- and off-campus speaking opportunities.

Assigned duties will require up to 20 hours of work per week. New GTAs must report for a one-week training / workshop beginning August 10, 2026. Classes begin August 24, 2026. International / non-U.S. based GTAs are required to report to the university on August 3, 2026 in order to complete necessary government and employment paperwork.

Minnesota State System policy requires that graduate assistants must reside within the State of Minnesota for the duration of their appointment.

• Admission to a Communication and Media graduate program.
• Strong English language speaking and writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability in academic writing.
• Ability to work harmoniously with a variety of people representing diverse perspectives.
• Admitted to a Minnesota State University, Mankato graduate program by start date.
• Enrolled in a minimum of six (6) graduate credits per semester during assistantship, and in good academic standing.

• Strong interest in teaching communication to a variety of undergraduate student populations.
• Prior coursework in communication and media.
• Prior teaching experience.
• Prior experience working with speech and debate in any format (including model UN, World Debate, Storytelling, or Spoken Word etc.).
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a diverse working and learning environment.

Up to $10,000 plus tuition stipends, dependent upon availability of funds, period of appointment, and assignment. Appointments made after the tenth day of classes are not eligible for a tuition waiver.

Additional information on Minnesota State University, Mankato can be found u.edu.

Justin Rudnick, Professor & Graduate Studies Coordinator

Minnesota State University, Mankato has a long-standing commitment to diversity and is actively seeking to nurture and enrich its underrepresented communities. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In accordance with USCIS regulations, successful applicants must be legally able to accept work in the United States. Requests for reasonable accommodation of a disability during the application and/or interview process should be made to the Office of Human Resources,  (V),  or 711 (MRS/TTY).

This vacancy notice is available in an alternative format upon request. Minnesota State University, Mankato is an affirmative action/equal opportunity University and is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.