Assistant Professor (Costume Design)

Title: Assistant Professor (Costume Design)

Employee Classification: FA - Faculty 16 and 24 Pay

Pay Grade: FA 01

Division: Academic and Student Affairs

Subdivision: School of Comm Media Theater Arts

Department: College of Arts and Sciences

Campus Location: Main Campus

General Summary

Eastern Michigan Universitys (EMU) School of Communication Media & Theatre Arts (CMTA) is now accepting applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position. This position will primarily teach in the Entertainment Design & Technology (ED&T) program with potential to teach classes in related areas within the School such as Theatre and/or Arts and Entertainment Management.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:
Teaching 2-3 classes per semester (12-credits per semester teaching load)
Designing costumes (typically including hair and make-up) for 1-2 shows per semester (counted towards teaching load)
Maintaining an active teaching scholarship / creative activity and service agenda
Closely mentoring student costume designers as the opportunities arise (including but not limited to students designing mainstage shows and touring shows)
Assign and submit grades in accordance with established University schedules.
Academic advising for students towards a 4-year graduation goal within the Theatre and/or ED&T degrees
Though the primary responsibility is costume design those with other areas of specialization might have the opportunity to design / mentor in other areas as appropriate
Collaborating closely with the Costume Shop Manager and other Designers.
Assisting in the costume shop with the build of two mainstage shows per semester

Minimum Qualifications:

The successful applicant will have an MFA (or suitable terminal degree)in costume design or a related design discipline with significant professional experience in costume addition the candidate should have experience teaching at the university level and mentoring student designers.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to candidates who provide evidence of significant achievement in professional creative work successful teaching / scholarship and /or those actively involved in professional organizations such as USITT / LDI / KC-ACTF etc.

Special Instructions:

All applications must be made online through EMUs application portal ( must submit the following materials for consideration:
Cover letter that speaks to interest in the position qualifications and commitment to / evidence of supporting an inclusive academic environment
Teaching philosophy / approach
Curriculum Vitae
Link to / upload of design portfolio
Names and contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin Fall of 2025 and continue until the position is filled. The Search Committee chair is Phil Simmons. If interested please contact Phil at

Appointment Percentage:

100%