Artistic Assistant Professor of Directing and Production, Non-Tenure Track, Fall 2026 chez Chapman University

Chapman University's Co-Curricular BFA in Screen Acting program within Dodge College of Film and Media Arts and The College of Performing Arts, invites applications for a non-tenure track Assistant Professor of Directing and Film and Television Production in Dodge College, starting in Fall 2026.

Chapman University is a nationally ranked institution offering traditional undergraduate and graduate programs in the heart of Orange County, one of Southern California’s most diverse and vibrant regions. The University achieved R2 status in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, a distinction held by just 10 percent of all U.S. universities and is ranked #110 among Best National Universities by US News and World Report (2026). Our faculty includes academic leaders who excel in research, publishing, and world-class teaching in our 11 schools and colleges, including Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Dedicated to forward-looking, personalized education, we create an environment for unlimited student and faculty achievement. We strive to create an environment that fosters unlimited achievement by our students and faculty.  Industry trade publications The Wrap and The Hollywood Reporter rank Dodge College #4 among film schools nationwide. More information about the university and Dodge College is available at https://www.chapman.edu/dodge/index.aspx.    

Key Responsibilities

• Demonstrate expertise in actor-centered directing, film production, and the collaborative relationship between directors and actors in film and television.  
• Teach directing and production and courses within the BFA Screen Acting degree, including guiding senior screen acting students through preparation and the development of original scenes and monologues for senior level BFA Showcase.
• Exhibit a strong understanding of both the performance and the filmmaking processes, along with the ability to mentor students creatively and professionally.
• Teach four courses in both the fall and spring semesters, which could include introductory directing or production courses, the capstone course for screen acting seniors, as well as other classes.
• Mentor screen acting students.
• Serve on university and Dodge College committees and other service-related activities as assigned
• Maintain currency in the industry.

Required

• Terminal degree or an MA with significant industry experience

• Professional experience directing motion pictures

• Solid understanding of screen acting

• Solid understanding of the motion picture production process

• Teaching experience 

Desired

• Produced significant work that has achieved national and industry recognition

Qualified candidates are invited to electronically submit the following:

1. A cover letter detailing relevant qualifications for this position

2. A current curriculum vitae

3. Reel or portfolio

4. The names/contact information of three references

5. A teaching statement outlining your pedagogy and teaching philosophy

6. 3 letters of recommendation - Letters of recommendation will be requested as part of the selection process and need not be submitted with the initial application.

Inquiries can be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Russell Boast, [email protected]. Please use “DIR Position” as the email subject line.

Application reviews will begin December 5th. Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate. Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with experience. Salary range is $95,000-$100,000. Position is contingent on final budget approval.