Assistant Professor of Music Theory

Assistant Professor of Music Theory

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Music Theory.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States Division School of Music Position Type Faculty Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date December 1, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants

Required Documents:

Letter of interest

Curriculum vitae that includes a list of courses taught

Contact information for three references

Supporting Materials:

Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The School of Music at the University of Southern Mississippi is now accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Music Theory.

Area of specialization is open. This nine-month, tenure-track position will begin in August 2027.

The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a public Carnegie R1 research university with its main campus in Hattiesburg and a coastal campus in Long Beach. It has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938. The School of Music offers the B.A., B.M., and B.M.Ed. degrees, the M.M. and M.M.E., and the D.M.A. in performance and pedagogy and in conducting. Students perform in ensembles that include the USM Symphony Orchestra, the Wind Ensemble, the Southern Chorale, the Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company, and The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band. More than 40 full-time faculty perform, present, and publish nationally and internationally and bring that work into the studio and classroom. The School enrolls students from a wide range of backgrounds, from across Mississippi and around the world.

For full consideration, applications must be submitted by November 16, 2026.

Questions may be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Joseph E. Jones (joseph.e.jones@usm.edu).

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Teaching expectations - Music theory faculty typically teach six courses per year, three per semester, and serve on graduate student committees. The School offers courses ranging from undergraduate theory and ear training to graduate-level seminars.
• Research expectations - Faculty develop a clear research agenda with a growing record of peer-reviewed conference presentations and publications.
• Service expectations - Faculty engage in service activities within the School of Music, particularly graduate project advising, and across the university. Faculty are also encouraged to serve or otherwise participate in their professional organizations.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in music theory by the time of appointment

University teaching experience as instructor of record

Evidence of (or potential for) scholarly achievement in the field of music theory

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Familiarity with (or ability to learn) Canvas, the university's online learning management systems (LMS).
• Familiarity with (or ability to learn) Microsoft Office, including Outlook and Teams.
• Familiarity with university-level recruitment and/or retention strategies.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience mentoring or advising graduate student research

Experience teaching undergraduate music theory and ear training sequences

Experience teaching graduate-level courses

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation''s leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.