Assistant Professor, Theatre Directing

Florida Gulf Coast University; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Florida Gulf Coast University is seeking an Assistant Professor of Theatre Directing to teach undergraduate courses, contribute to curriculum development, and pursue scholarly work. The role includes serving on university committees and directing productions as part of the theatre season.

The successful candidate will engage in community and campus service, embrace innovative teaching with technology, and actively participate in professional development and accreditation activities.

Qualifications

• Terminal MFA, DFA, or PhD in Theatre and Performance Studies or closely related area from a regionally accredited institution.
• ABD will be considered if degree is conferred by Aug 7, 2027; if ABD, appointment at Lecturer level on fixed contract.

Responsibilities

• Plans, prepares, and teaches assigned courses with syllabi, materials, and assessments.
• Delivers engaging lectures aligned with curriculum goals and accreditation standards.
• Maintains high standards of classroom instruction and engages in reflective self‑assessment.
• Provides academic advising and office hours; supports students individually.
• Uses the University LMS and instructional technologies effectively.
• Collaborates on curriculum development and program advancement.
• Establishes and maintains an active research program with undergrad involvement.
• Demonstrates scholarly publication and grantsmanship.
• Participates in departmental, college, and university committees and service.
• Ensures program outcomes meet accreditation standards.

Skills

Teaching

Curriculum design

Research

Online learning

Education

MFA/PhD in Theatre and Performance Studies

ABD considered for Lecturer track

Tools

LMS (Canvas/Blackboard)

Job description

Job Summary

As Assistant Professor of Theatre Directing, a successful candidate will teach at the undergraduate level; be involved in course and/or curriculum development; conduct research/scholarship; participate on College and University committees and/or initiatives; serve as one of the stage directors for our theatre season; and perform other duties as assigned.

Florida Gulf Coast University is a comprehensive university dedicated to quality education, research, and service. All faculty are expected to: be excellent teachers, responsive to changing professional needs; be committed to innovative delivery of instruction resulting in improved student learning; be committed to effective use of technology including distance learning; produce peer reviewed scholarship; and provide service to the College, University and Community. Teaching assignments may be on the main campus or at off-campus sites within our region. FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.

Job Description

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

• Plans, prepares, and teaches assigned courses, including developing syllabi, instructional materials, and assessments.
• Delivers consistent, interactive, and engaging lectures aligned with curriculum goals and accreditation standards.
• Maintains the highest standards of classroom instruction and engages in reflective self‑assessment to ensure continuous improvement.
• Holds regular office hours and provides academic advising and individual support to students.
• Utilizes the University’s learning management system and other instructional technologies effectively.
• Collaborates with departmental faculty on curriculum development and program advancement.
• Ensures curriculum outcomes and accreditation standards are met.
• Establishes and maintains an active research program, including opportunities for undergraduate student involvement.
• Demonstrates evidence of scholarly publication and grantsmanship.
• Engages in continued professional development and maintains professional skills appropriate to rank and field.
• Actively participates in departmental, college, and university committees and meetings.
• Contributes to community, institutional, and professional service in support of the University’s mission.
• Participates in faculty evaluation, student learning assessment, and required training activities.
• Communicates professionally and in a timely manner with students, colleagues, staff, and administrators.
• Upholds the highest standards of integrity, responsibility, and excellence in all professional activities.
• Complies with University policies, procedures, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Terminal M.F.A., D.F.A., or Ph.D. in Theatre and Performance Studies, Directing or closely related area from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent accreditation.
• ABD will be considered if degree is conferred by August7,2027. If successful candidate is ABD, appointment will be made at a Lecturer level on a fixed contract.

Preferred Qualifications

• One or more years of university or college teaching experience.
• Five or more years experience as a professional stage director.
• Experience as a director at the college and/or professional level.
• Experience directing musical theatre.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of major concepts, assumptions, debates, processes of inquiry, and ways of knowing that are central to the discipline(s).
• Understanding how to use digital and interactive technologies for efficiently and effectively achieving specific learning goals.
• Knowledge of critical thinking processes and understanding how to help learners develop high level questioning skills.
• Knowledge and skill in the use of inquiry-based instructional models and strategies.
• Knowledge and ability to use technology in various teaching modalities (e.g. Face‑to‑face, synchronous online or asynchronous online).
• Ability to collaborate with stakeholders both within and outside the University in the development and delivery of instruction, resulting in improved student learning.
• Proven ability to think strategically and approach challenges with creativity.
• Demonstrated track record of reliability, meeting goals, and holding oneself accountable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively across teams.

Institutional Values & Behavioral Expectations

• Seek out new approaches to improve outcomes; remain open to feedback and new ideas.
• Lead with integrity; consistently produce high-quality work; persevere to overcome obstacles to meet deadlines and achieve deliverables.
• Share information and insights thoughtfully; build partnerships across departments; communicate respectfully; support colleagues to achieve common goals.

The position is listed as open until filled, however applications received by December1,2026 will receive priority consideration.

FGCU is a dynamic, student‑centered institution located in Southwest Florida. We're dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. As a member of our faculty or staff at FGCU, you'll find a supportive environment where your work makes a real impact—on campus and beyond. Explore exciting opportunities to grow your career while shaping the future with us.

FGCU is an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.