Posted September 27, 2025
Assistant Professors of Communication and Emerging Media – Communication and Media Generalists (2 positions)
The Department of Communication and Emerging Media at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) invites applications for two full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Assistant Professors of Communication and Emerging Media, with an expected start date of August 16, 2026. We seek candidates with a PhD in communication or mass communication, or related field; PhD required by time of appointment. Preference given to candidates with communication or mass communication degrees. Candidates should demonstrate effective teaching at the undergraduate level, sincere interest in service to the department, university, and community, as well as evidence of scholarly productivity. Successful candidates will have specialties that bridge traditional communication studies with media/mass communication and have ability and investment in teaching core courses in the department, such as interpersonal communication or public speaking, as well as upper division courses in communication studies and/or media production. All our department’s full-time faculty have a 4-4 teaching load. We seek candidates devoted to high impact pedagogy, and conscientious, holistic academic advisement. The successful applicants will have the opportunity to create and/or redesign classes related to the mission of the department and university, particularly courses that prepare students for the workforce in the communications and media industries. The successful candidates will also help the department develop a potential new MA graduate program and teach graduate level courses. Salary is commensurate and competitive with qualifications and experience.
The Communication and Emerging Media Department is engaged in exciting initiatives including a new Media Learning and Research Lab (MLRL), new online BA programs, a new certificate program in Strategic Communication, and new partnerships with community and regional stakeholders. The department currently offers two BA degrees (Communication BA and Emerging Media BA) both on ground and online, along with minors in both Communication and Emerging Media, as well as the Certificate in Strategic Communication. We serve approximately 110 majors. Our curriculum for both BA programs includes core courses and a required capstone experience, designed to challenge students to understand, integrate and apply theories and principles from both communication studies and mass communication areas. We grow out of a liberal education tradition but also teach career readiness competences and we are committed to the personal and professional growth of our students.
USCA is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
The initial screening of applicants will begin January 12, 2026, and continue until both positions are filled. To be considered for these positions, applicants must apply online at: https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/195229 and upload the following with their online application: a cover letter, a current CV, and unofficial graduate transcripts, full contact information for three professional references. Finalists will be required to submit official hard copy transcripts and three signed recommendation letters. Questions may be directed to Professor Elizabeth Webb, Search Chair, at elizabethw@usca.edu.
The University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA), a public comprehensive university in the University of South Carolina system, offers undergraduate and master’s degrees to more than 4000 students in 60 programs of study. USCA has ranked as one of the best public schools in the South by U.S. News & World Report for the 26th year in a row. Additionally, USCA was recognized for being a Best College for Veterans and a Top Performer in Social Mobility. USCA is South Carolina’s COPLAC institution providing a unique and strong liberal arts core within our degree offerings. We boast students from 35 states and 32 countries. USCA has ten NCAA Division II Athletic programs. For more information about USC Aiken visit www.usca.edu.
Situated on 450 acres, USCA is located thirty minutes from Augusta, GA (home of the Masters Tournament and Fort Gordon, new home of US Army Cyber Command), one hour from Columbia, SC, and within three hours of Charleston, SC, coastal beaches, and the Appalachian Mountains. Aiken is noted for its famous thoroughbred horses, numerous parks and golf courses, wonderful weather, spacious avenues, and historic homes.