Asst. Prof. Communications Design & Foundation bei undefined

Reports to: Dean, School of Art

Department: School of Art – Pratt Munson

Start date: Fall 2026

POSITION SUMMARY

The Assistant Professor in Communications Design and Foundations at Pratt Munson College of Art and Design is a full-time, on site, non-tenure-track faculty position responsible for teaching across communications design and foundational visual arts. Areas of expertise include a primary focus in illustration and animation, with a secondary focus in 2D foundations.

The professor will support undergraduate students in developing strong visual literacy, conceptual thinking, and technical skills essential to both Communication Design and Foundations. This role includes teaching a variety of first year and second year courses, mentoring students in their creative and professional development, and contributing to an innovative interdisciplinary curriculum.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach a range of courses across Communications Design and Foundations, including areas such as illustration, animation, graphic design, drawing, color theory, and 2D design.
• Mentor undergraduate students, guiding them in developing critical and creative skills for academic and professional success.
• Advise students on coursework, projects, and career pathways.
• Contribute to departmental service and participate in college-wide committees.
• Maintain an active creative practice and engage in ongoing professional development.
• Develop and revise course materials to align with evolving program and institutional goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• MFA or terminal degree in Communications Design, Illustration, Animation, Graphic Design or a related field (e.g., Media Arts, Digital Media). Equivalent professional experience combined with a master’s degree (MA or MS) may be considered in lieu of a terminal degree.
• At least four years of professional experience in one or more relevant fields (e.g., Illustration, Graphic Design, Animation).
• Proficiency in traditional and digital tools and practices related to Communications Design and Visual Arts.
• College-level teaching experience in Communications Design with a demonstrated commitment to student success.
   
   

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated success in teaching foundational skills such as illustration, drawing, design principles, and animation alongside communications design applications.
• Experience bridging traditional studio practices with emerging technologies in design and media.
• An active record of professional achievement and creative scholarship.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines within an art and design context.
   
   

ABOUT PRATT MUNSON

Pratt Munson College of Art and Design, an extension campus of Pratt Institute, offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary art and design education in a close-knit, creative community. Students benefit from access to the Munson Museum of Art, a faculty of practicing artists and designers, and the opportunity to transition to Pratt Institute’s Brooklyn campus after two years of study. Located in Utica, New York, Pratt Munson provides an inspiring environment for faculty and students alike.

SALARY & BENEFITS

• Salary 53.5K Annualized
• Competitive health benefits
• Retirement plans with employer contributions
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid holidays and leave time

APPLICATION PROCESS

Required application materials listed below. Only complete submission packages will be considered.

Applicants should submit:

• Letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy
• Artist/professional statement
• One example of a course syllabi and an assignment pertaining to illustration/animation
• A PDF of your Digital portfolio (minimum 10 samples of professional and/or creative work); links to websites for animation examples will also be accepted
• A PDF of 15-20 examples of student work
• Names and contact information for three professional references
• Submissions will only be accepted via Munson/Pratt Munson’s Career Center 
• Deadline: Review of complete applications begins December 1, 2025, and continues until the position is filled.

Applicants must be authorized for employment in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship is not available.

The final candidate will be required to complete a post-offer, pre-employment background check. 

MUNSON is an Equal Opportunity Employer