University of Nebraska at Kearney

Job Summary:

The University of Nebraska at Kearney seeks an individual to teach introductory and advanced advertising courses within the Communication Department’s advertising & public relations program to begin in the Fall of 2026. 

The successful candidate will teach introductory and advanced advertising courses in the department’s Advertising & Public Relations program. Responsibilities will include teaching Public Relations, Social Media Strategies, and Strategic Communication Campaigns.  Additional teaching may include Advertising and Promotion at The Antelope, Integrated Marketing Communication, Advertising Copywriting, or other courses relevant to the candidate’s expertise and interests. The department is also launching a new Influencer and Digital Content Creation minor, and the successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute to curriculum development and teach courses in areas such as influencer strategy, branded content, social media analytics, digital storytelling, and emerging platforms.

The faculty member will be required to teach and work with Adobe InDesign and Photoshop on Mac computers.  A commitment to innovative instruction, student mentorship, and collaborative program development is valued.  Teaching responsibilities will include both in-person and online courses.

Applicants may be hired at the Assistant Professor (tenure-track) or Lecturer (non-tenure-track) level. 

Assistant Professor duties will include (a) teaching 4 undergraduate and/or graduate courses per semester (with the possibility of 1 course release per semester for research or creative work), (b) maintaining active research or creative activities, (c) advising students in the Media Studies major, and (d) participating in service to the department, college, university, and profession. 

Lecturer duties will include (a) teaching 4 undergraduate courses per semester, and (b) participating in service to the department, college, and university.

Required Qualifications:

To be considered for the title of Assistant Professor, a PhD, MFA, or other appropriate terminal degree in a relevant field is required. ABD candidates will be considered.

For lecturer, a Master’s degree in a relevant field is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Teaching experience and/or equivalent practical/professional experience. Familiarity with Mac computers and current design software, including applications within the Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with online teaching, course development, and student advising is preferred. 

Additional Information

Submit a cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, and contact information for 3 professional references.  If wishing to be considered at the Assistant Professor level, a statement of research or creative activity is strongly encouraged.

About Us:

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. As part of the University of Nebraska system, UNK offers a supportive, student-focused environment with the resources of a larger institution. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves around 6,000 students and is known for its strong academics, welcoming campus culture, and dedication to student success. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of education to transform lives.

As a University of Nebraska employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and wellness programs—plus 13 paid holidays each year, generous leave options, and tuition remission.