Lecturer of Communication

The Purdue University Northwest College of Communications and Creative Arts is seeking a Continuing Lecturer starting in Fall 2025. The successful applicant for this non-tenure track position will teach five courses per semester as needed. We are seeking candidates with a record of creative or professional practice, innovative pedagogy, and relevant teaching experience in visual communication, digital design, or related fields of study. In addition to their expertise in the classroom, the ideal candidate will have experience working in creative agencies, commercial design, or professional media production.

This position requires a generalist’s flexibility and a willingness to approach design as a multifaceted, interdisciplinary subject. Candidates should be comfortable teaching visual theory within the context of project-based classes that emphasize producing innovative, original work. Students in our Visual Communication Design concentration are taught to seek out individualized ways of using design to engage their interests, and candidates from many different backgrounds will be considered for this position.

Candidates that demonstrate proficiency in other relevant areas of study, including typography, photography, web design, UI/UX design, illustration, animation, motion graphics, and content creation are strongly encouraged to apply.

• This faculty position will entail a 5/5 course load. Teaching might entail a combination of in-person, hybrid, and online platforms at either our Hammond or Westville location.
• Teach using professional tools and demonstrate proficiency and/or professional experience in industry-standard workflows.
• Service activity including department and school faculty meetings is expected.

• A strong portfolio of professional work in Visual Communication, Art, and/or Design.
• A demonstrated understanding of how to use data and research to justify creative decisions.
• A demonstrated understanding of professional creatives’ role in describing and responding to audiences and contexts.
• Candidates should possess the terminal degree in their field of study. (MFA, MDes, PhD, etc.)
• Expertise in the manipulation of text and imagery.
• Evidence of successful teaching at the college level.
• Work that includes recognition of the physical, cognitive, cultural, and social human factors that shape art and design decisions.
• Experience within creative agencies, commercial design work, or freelancing.

Purdue University Northwest (PNW), a premier metropolitan university located in Northwest Indiana, is dedicated to empowering transformational change in its students on its two campuses in Hammond and Westville, Indiana. Part of the Purdue University system and offering more than 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, PNW is committed to academic excellence, supports growth, and celebrates diversity. PNW’s colleges, schools and centers are distinguished through prestigious accreditations, national recognitions, and competitive rankings.

PNW’s Hammond campus is located only 30 miles from Chicago with the Westville branch campus just 15 miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park. Fostering a university community full of contrasts—urban and rural, industrial and natural, with a well-established history and forward-thinking mindset—PNW’s two campuses serve its students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college to make the most of this rich range of resources. Moreover, PNW has been designated as a Hispanic-serving public institution dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning and committed to the advancement of a diverse and under-served student population.

The Department of Communication and Creative Arts (CCA) operates within the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS). The department offers four concentrations for students pursing a BA in Communication: Broadcast Production, Public Advocacy and Media Studies, Strategic Communication, and Visual Communication Design.

Applicants should submit:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of interest - Provides a broad overview of your qualifications and interests as a design practitioner and educator
• A portfolio of projects, research, and/or professional experience related to Visual Communication Design (maximum 15 images)
• Names and contact information of 3 professional references
• If available, samples of student work from courses you have taught (maximum 15 images) (listed as "other 3")
• If available, up to three example syllabi from courses you’ve taught (may be attached to student work samples

Department Contact for Questions
Frank Geiser
Assistant Professor of Practice in Visual Communication and Design
fgeiser@pnw.edu

Salary and Rank: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Review of applications will begin immediately. The search will remain open until filled.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background check.

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.

Exempt