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Assistant Professor of Communication:
Theory & Methods

The San Diego State University School of Communication seeks to hire a tenure-track assistant professor with expertise in communication theory and methods. The successful candidate is expected to have a strong program of communication scholarship grounded in communication theory and methods, with applications across instructional, interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, health, environmental, or digital communication that support a rigorous and impactful research agenda.

The faculty member will be expected to teach and serve as the coordinator for three foundational undergraduate courses: communication theory (COMM 300–Conceptualizing Communication), communication methods (COMM 350–Investigating Communication), and the culminating undergraduate capstone course (COMM 495–Communication Capstone). At the graduate level, they will teach foundational courses in communication theory (COMM 610) and methods (COMM 602).

The School of Communication envisions sustained excellence in advancing communication scholarship, promoting social justice, fostering relationships, and enhancing the public good. We enact this vision through inspired teaching, innovative collaborative research, and impactful community engagement. The School of Communication is looking for a candidate who complements our existing disciplinary diversity spanning organizational, health, interpersonal/relational, rhetorical, intercultural, digital, and critical-cultural communication studies in a collegial environment that supports interdisciplinary collaboration.

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Required qualifications by date of application:

• A record of original research/scholarly accomplishments
• Demonstrated capacity to a) develop a vigorous and independent program of research/scholarship, b) teach communication courses; and c) engage in both campus and professional service activities.
• Demonstration of past accomplishments and/or future plans in at least three of the "Building on Inclusive Excellence" criteria.

Required qualifications by date of hire:

• PhD degree in communication, with all degree requirements met.

Preferred qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in the discipline and its methodologies
• Record of teaching foundational communication courses at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels
• Strong program of communication scholarship within the context of instructional, interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, health, and/or digital communication research that aligns with our R1 university goals
• Experience with peer mentorship, exploring best pedagogical practices in teaching and learning, and willingness to take on administrative responsibilities
• Interest in securing extramural funding
• Ability to direct advanced undergraduate and/or graduate student research

Application Instructions:

Apply via Page Up by October 16, 2026, providing the following materials:

• Cover letter, including information indicating how the applicant meets or will meet required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and "Building on Inclusive Excellence" criteria
• Curriculum vita
• Names and contact information for three references
• Research Statement
• Teaching Philosophy Statement

The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $85,000-$88,000. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances. San Diego State University offers a rich benefits package that constitutes a major portion of total compensation.

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SDSU Values:

At SDSU, our diversity gives us power and benefits every single member of our community. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU provides equal opportunity for all in education and employment. We encourage all members of our community to purposefully learn from one another through open and respectful dialogue and responsible engagement. We strongly preserve the right to free expression and…