Chair, Communication Studies, Tenure-Track Faculty
Communication Studies
MTSU seeks candidates committed to innovative teaching, robust research/creative activity, and meaningful service. We also seek to attract culturally and academically diverse faculty who value working with diverse students.
The salary is commensurate with education and experience.
The College of Liberal Arts at Middle Tennessee State University invites applicants for the position (#631005) of Chair of the Department of Communication Studies. Applicants must meet the criteria for the rank of either associate professor or professor. Expedited tenure upon appointment is possible. The anticipated start date is August 1, 2027.
The successful candidate will lead a department that offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in Communication, with concentrations in Culture and Social Influence; Health Communication; and Organizational Communication; participates in several interdisciplinary minors; and has a vibrant debate program. The department seeks candidates who emphasize collaborative leadership and the ability to manage quotidian operations while focusing on long-range plans to foster growth and sustain quality programs. The selected candidate will prioritize excellence in teaching, have a distinguished record of scholarship, and be committed to equitable student success. In addition, the successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership abilities, strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and the ability to advocate for diverse student and faculty concerns.
A terminal degree in communication or a closely related field is required by the appointment date.
Applicants with prior administrative experience, including budget management, assessment, and an interest in recruitment and fundraising, may receive special consideration.
To successfully apply, applicants must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy, statement of research or creative activities (as appropriate to the discipline), and a statement of leadership philosophy ("Other Document 1") as separate attachments when submitting the online application.
When applying, applicants must provide complete contact information, including email addresses, for three professional references. References will be contacted to provide a reference letter if the applicant is selected for an interview. In addition, if the applicant is selected for the position, official transcripts of all degrees conferred, including translations and evaluations of international transcripts from an approved credentialing agency, will be required before a contract is issued. All submitted materials become the property of MTSU and will not be returned. Submission of materials is the applicant’s responsibility. Applications without all required materials are incomplete and will not be considered.
If you need help with the application, please contact Mitzi Dunkley, Faculty Recruitment Specialist, at (615) 898-5128. If you have position-specific questions, please contact Karla Barnes at Karla.Barnes@mtsu.edu.
MTSU offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:
Click here for additional information.
MTSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligibility for U.S. employment is required before employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986). Clery Act crime statistics for MTSU are available at https://police.mtsu.edu/annual-security-report/ or by contacting MTSU Public Safety at (615) 898-2424.
MTSU is a Tobacco & Drug-Free campus.
This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you will be required to provide information about your criminal history to be considered.
For individuals requiring reasonable accommodation to apply: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position with MTSU, please call 615-898-2929 or email emp@mtsu.edu.
Application Review Date: 12/02/2026
