Emerson College Opens Faculty Acting Position

The Boston institution is hiring a full-time faculty member to teach on-camera acting and scene study starting in 2027.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in College Applications

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a solitary wooden director's chair bathed in a warm stage spotlight, representing academic recruitment for performing arts. — Emerson College has begun an official search for a new full-time faculty member to instruct undergraduate students in on-camera acting in Boston. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you trust that arts-focused college degrees offer a strong return on investment today?

Emerson College has launched a search for a new full-time faculty member to lead on-camera acting and scene study at its Boston campus. The position, which is open to various tenure statuses, requires active industry experience and membership in SAG/AFTRA.

Why it matters

This role is part of the college's ongoing efforts to integrate professional film and television experience directly into its undergraduate performing arts curriculum. Priority consideration for the position will be granted to candidates who apply by November 20th.

The position offers an annual base salary between $81,723 and $109,042. Successful candidates will manage a teaching load of five or six classes per academic year.

The players

Emerson College

A private college based in Boston that is recognized for its specialized programs in the arts, communication, and liberal arts.

SAG/AFTRA

A major labor union representing actors, announcers, and other media professionals in the film and television industry.

The details

Applicants must demonstrate notable film and television credits as listed on IMDB and maintain active membership in SAG/AFTRA. The college requires submission of a curriculum vita, teaching philosophy, evaluations, and three professional references via its online portal.

November 20, 2026: Priority deadline for job applications.
August 19, 2027: Appointment start date and commencement of mandatory orientation.
August 20, 2027: Conclusion of the mandatory orientation period.

Culture Shift

This hiring initiative follows the broader rise of practice-based faculty appointments in higher education. It signals a move toward staffing arts departments with active industry professionals rather than solely relying on traditional academic routes.

Prospective applicants must prepare their professional portfolios, including IMDB credits and teaching evaluations, to meet the November priority deadline. Current students may anticipate future changes to department offerings based on the professional background of the new faculty member.

The takeaway

Securing a faculty position in performing arts often requires a blend of both high-level professional credits and demonstrated pedagogical experience. Candidates looking to transition into academia should maintain updated records of their creative work alongside their teaching credentials.