Part-Time Faculty: VIS 622 Visual Communications Theory (Spring 2026)

Job #

Job Title

Part-Time Faculty: VIS 622 Visual Communications Theory (Spring 2026)

Location

Syracuse, NY

Campus

Syracuse, NY

Commitment to On-Campus Experience

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.

Pay Range

$1,440 - $1,550 per credit hour

Pay Determination

Salary offers at Syracuse University will be based on education, experience, and relevant skills, as well as the academic or professional discipline of the position in the context of the home department, school, or college. Salary offers may also be influenced by prior relevant work or industry experience, where applicable. Faculty pay ranges are for 8.5 months' salary unless otherwise specified.

FLSA Status

Exempt

Hours

Spring 2026 Semester

Class meets Wednesdays 9:30am–12:15pm

Office hours required

Job Type

Part-time

Rank

PTI/Adjunct

Unionized Position Code

UA

Job Description

The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University seeks an instructor to teach VIS 622: Visual Communications Theory on Wednesdays 9:30am–12:15pm during the Spring 2026 semester (3 credits). This graduate-level course introduces students to the theoretical, methodological, and critical frameworks that shape the study and practice of visual communication.

Course Description:

This course explores how visual communication informs, persuades, and entertains through meaning-making systems, semiotics, and cultural frameworks. Students examine images through multiple theoretical lenses, learning how visual messages shape understanding, identity, representation, and ethical considerations. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and analytical assignments, students will critically evaluate images, apply theoretical methods, and develop the research tools necessary to navigate and interpret today's visually complex media environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Master's degree required; Ph.D. preferred.

Job Specific Qualifications

• Teaching experience preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in visual communication theory, semiotics, cultural theory, or related fields.
• Strong analytical, writing, and research skills applicable to graduate-level instruction.
• Ability to lead discussions, mentor graduate work, and support theoretical and creative research.

Responsibilities

Teaching assignments may include the following:

• Developing and/or updating a detailed course syllabus, readings, and assignments.
• Preparing and delivering lectures, class discussions, and presentations.
• Maintaining regularly scheduled office hours.
• Facilitating theoretical and methodological engagement with course readings.
• Evaluating research papers, visual analysis assignments, creative visual projects, exams, and presentations.
• Submitting mid-semester progress reports and final grades per University regulations.
• Encouraging critical thinking, diverse perspectives, and ethical analysis in visual communication.
• Providing departmentally sanctioned student evaluations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to instruct the class on the days and times it is designated to meet.
• Ability to hold office hours on campus.
• Ability to grade all assignments and examinations.

Tools/Equipment

• Ability to operate standard classroom instructional technology, which may include computer, projector, document camera, etc.

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach a curriculum vitae and cover letter.

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.

The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University's 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit

About the Syracuse area

Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.

EEO Statement

Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.

Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans

Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University's contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.

Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community

Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.