Instructor and Basic Course Director, Communication Studies

Posting Details

Posting Details

Logo Institution The University of South Dakota Working Title Instructor and Basic Course Director, Communication Studies Posting Number F01970P Department USD-Communication Studies Physical Location of Position (City) Vermillion Posting Text

INSTRUCTOR

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTA

Beginning: August 16, 2027

The Department of Communication Studies at the University of South Dakota seeks applications for a full-time instructor and Director of the Basic Course. This nine-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position is open to candidates who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, mentoring, pedagogical design, and course management.

This position will have primary responsibility for CMST 101: Foundations of Communication. The CMST 101 course is a general education requirement for all USD students and is taught in both face-to-face and online modalities. Duties include curriculum development, course assessment, recruitment and instructional development of Graduate Teaching Instructors, and course scheduling. The successful applicant will also have an opportunity to teach other courses such as Honor's Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Research Methods, and Science Communication.

The Department of Communication Studies at USD has a reputation for high quality teaching and support of undergraduate research. Administratively home in the College of Arts & Sciences, we offer undergraduate degrees and a master's degree in Communication, which is offered in collaboration with the Department of Media & Journalism. The Department of Communication Studies is committed to promoting the power of ethical and effective communication and creating a supportive environment for the free exchange of ideas.

The University of South Dakota is the state's flagship institution, the oldest university, and the only public liberal arts university in South Dakota. USD offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to more than 10,000 students, and is located in Vermillion, a small and dynamic community nestled along the bluffs above the Missouri River in the southeast corner of South Dakota. Located one hour from South Dakota's largest city, the area offers many recreational and cultural opportunities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Successful candidates will teach on-campus and online undergraduate courses in area(s) of expertise (4/4 teaching load). They will also direct and guide other instructors teaching CMST 101: Foundations of Communication, will mentor and advise graduate and undergraduate students, and provide discipline-related service to the department, college, university, discipline, and wider public.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications for Instructor rank: A master's degree in Communication Studies or a closely related area is required, along with demonstrated excellence in teaching undergraduate communication courses and courses design.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates must apply online at https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu submitting a curriculum vitae, cover letter which specifically explains the candidate's interest in the position and teaching philosophy, and contact information for three professional references.

Please contact USD Human Resources at (605) 658-3660; hr@usd.edu) if you require assistance with this process. Questions or inquiries about the position may be directed to Leah Seurer, PhD, Chair, Department of Communication Studies (Leah.Seurer@usd.edu).

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university's verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies including but not limited to a criminal background check.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

SALARY AND APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

This is a full-time 9-month appointment, non-tenure track position with an expected start date of August 16, 2027. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Posting Date 10/27/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes First Consideration Date 11/29/2027 Advertised Salary Duration of the Term 9 months If Other, describe duration Appointment Percent 100 Tenure Status Term Proposed Rank Instructor Work Hours Typical Hours Worked Per Week Appointment Type Regular Scope of Search External (includes Internal) If internal, define scope of search Department Description and Cultural Expectations Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological, political, or sectarian opinions or perspectives; or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.

Contact Information

Working Conditions

Cognitive Requirements

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Supplemental Questions

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Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Reference List

Optional Documents

• Other