What are the responsibilities and job description for the Professional-Track Instructor - Journalism and Mass Communications position at University of South Carolina?
Posting Number
FAC00197PO25
Advertised Title
Professional-Track Instructor - Journalism and Mass Communications
Campus
Columbia
College/Division
College of Information and Communications
Department
CIC School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Advertised Salary Range
Commensurate with experience
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time
Full Time
Hours per Week
37.5
Position Category
Full-time Equivalent (FTE)
Basis
9 months
Work County
Richland
Tenure Information
Professional Track
Job Search Category
Faculty
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers state employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
The School of Journalism and Mass Communications (SJMC) invites applications for at least one nine-month professional-track faculty position at the rank of Instructor, to begin on either January 1, 2026, or August 16, 2026. We seek instructors who are committed to helping us fulfill our mission of preparing the next generation of mass communication practitioners.
SJMC offers undergraduate majors in advertising, journalism, mass communication, public relations, sports media, and visual communications. The most competitive applicants will bring both professional expertise and demonstrated teaching ability that spans at least two of these majors. We are particularly interested in candidates who can teach in one or more of the following areas: Public Relations/Strategic Communication, Social Media, Sports Media, and Media Law.
Responsibilities:
- Teaching
- Select service activities may include but are not limited to advising student organizations such as clubs, agencies and competitions.
- Participate in shared governance.
The School of Journalism and Mass Communications
The School of Journalism and Mass Communications enrolls approximately 2,000 undergraduates and 120 graduate students across programs in advertising, public relations, broadcast journalism, journalism, mass communication, sports media, and visual communication, as well as several interdisciplinary minors. The SJMC also offers a research-oriented master’s program in theory and research, a professionally focused master’s program, and a Ph.D. in mass communication. Faculty combine scholarly and professional expertise to advance communication research and practice in ways that prepare students for leadership in media, strategic communication, and related fields.
The College of Information and Communications
The College of Information and Communications (CIC) is a vibrant community of scholars, teachers, practitioners, and staff dedicated to shaping the future of our information-powered world. With more than 2,700 students and 150 faculty and staff, we blend transformative teaching, cutting-edge research, and real-world experiences that prepare graduates to thrive. Our programs span social media, cybersecurity, digital strategy, sports media, libraries, journalism, and beyond, reflecting the dynamic ways information connects people and drives change. Students and faculty benefit from unique resources such as our social media analytics lab, biometric and UX research lab, and emerging information technology facilities. Together, we push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and prepare leaders ready to make an impact.
Required Education and Experience
- Master’s degree or higher in mass communications, journalism or a related field by the start date of employment.
- Candidate must have a minimum of three years of professional experience in mass communications, journalism or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Teaching experience is not required, but desired.
Posting Detail Information
Desired Start Date
08/16/2026
Job Open Date
09/26/2025
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicant
Applications are due by November 1, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.
Candidates should be prepared to upload the following documents:
- Letter of application addressing interests and qualifications for the position
- Resume or Curriculum vitae
- List of three references (including name, phone number, and email)
- Three letters of recommendation signed and on letterhead (only for candidates selected as finalists) should be emailed directly to Rachel Rolli at rachelrolli@sc.edu. While these letters are only required prior to interview, letters may be uploaded to USCJobs at the time of initial application.
Inquiries about this posting should be directed to Search Committee Chair Jeffrey Williams at jeffwill@mailbox.sc.edu.
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This position is open until filled. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This position is open until filled. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
Quicklink for Posting
https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/195153
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina 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.
