Assistant Professor in Electronic Media Visa Sponsorship USA

Job Description

Position Overview

• Job Title: Assistant Professor of Electronic Media/Broadcasting and Digital Journalism
  
• Tenure Status: Tenure-Track
  
• Appointment Type: Full-Time, 9-Month Contract (1.0 FTE)
  
• Anticipated Start Date: August 1, 2026
  
• Location: Boone, North Carolina (with potential responsibilities at the Hickory campus)
  
• Department: Communication (Code: 265100)
  
• Position ID: 063211
  
• Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience and credentials

Appalachian State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the Department of Communication. This role emphasizes expertise in electronic media/broadcasting and digital journalism, particularly in audio-focused areas. We are committed to fostering innovative teaching, creative scholarship, and student engagement in a dynamic academic environment.

Qualifications and Preferences

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in mass communication, journalism, or a closely aligned field by the appointment start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

Hands-on professional background in audio production.

Practical knowledge in areas such as radio broadcasting, podcast development, digital news gathering, or similar media practices.

No specific licenses or certifications are mandated for this role.

ABD Policy:
Applicants who are All But Dissertation (ABD) will be evaluated, but with an adjusted rank and salary at the Instructor level. Proof of dissertation defense must be submitted by July 31 for fall appointments or November 30 for spring starts. Failure to meet this deadline results in a one-year fixed-term contract at the Instructor rank with corresponding pay. Upon degree completion within that year, promotion to Assistant Professor and salary adjustment will occur effective July 1 of the subsequent academic year.

Department and University Context

The Department of Communication at Appalachian State University serves over 1,000 undergraduate majors through programs in advertising, communication studies, digital journalism, electronic media/broadcasting, and public relations. Our faculty of more than 40 dedicated professionals supports a vibrant learning community. Key highlights include oversight of five student-led media ventures:

• The Appalachian, an acclaimed student news publication;
• AppTV, a fully student-managed TV station;
• Second Story Media, a student agency crafting campaigns for local nonprofits;
• The Peel, a literary and arts magazine in print and online formats;
• 90.5 WASU-FM “The App,” a student-run, FCC-licensed radio station broadcasting for over five decades.

Explore more at communication.appstate.edu.

Appalachian State University, part of the University of North Carolina system, promotes inclusive excellence and supports visa sponsorship for qualified international candidates. All applicants must demonstrate eligibility to reside and work in the United States.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will contribute to our undergraduate curriculum in electronic media/broadcasting and digital journalism, with primary emphasis on radio and audio production techniques, and supplementary focus on audio-based news reporting or podcasting.

Core duties encompass:

• Delivering three courses each semester, potentially including off-campus instruction at our Hickory location;
• Mentoring and advising undergraduate students;
• Pursuing an ongoing agenda of scholarly research, creative projects, or professional development;
• Engaging in service to the department, university, and broader professional community.

This position demands adaptability to evolving media landscapes and a passion for preparing students for real-world media careers. No unusual physical requirements are associated with the role.

Application Process

To apply, submit the following via our online portal:

• A tailored cover letter outlining your fit for the position;
• Full curriculum vitae;
• Teaching philosophy statement;
• Recent student evaluations of teaching (if applicable);
• Link to a professional portfolio showcasing relevant work;
• One representative sample of peer-reviewed research or creative output;
• Official transcripts from all graduate institutions;
• Contact details (including addresses, phone numbers, and emails) for three professional references.

Timeline:

• Posting Open Date: October 6, 2025
• Position Open Until Filled: Yes
• No Fixed Closing Date

Search Committee Contact:
Frank Aycock, Search Committee Chair
Email: aycock@faa.appstate.edu

Application Portal: appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/52122
Posting Reference: FA00530P

Additional Notes

In alignment with UNC System policies (Section 610(2)), term appointments for specialized faculty may be subject to conditions such as funding availability, enrollment trends, or other institutional factors. We encourage applications from diverse candidates and are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a culturally inclusive community