Assistant Professor of Practice in Media and Communication (Public Relations and Advertising)

Come and join the Bearkat community!

Named after Texas' legendary hero, General Sam Houston, the university boasts a rich historical legacy that resonates with the spirit of Texas, which provides a balance between a peaceful, natural setting and proximity to urban amenities. With a student population of over 21,000, SHSU offers a vibrant and dynamic community. SHSU has a small town feel with large scale opportunities. Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas and just an hour drive north of Houston, Huntsville provides area residents with a sense of community and belonging.

SHSU offers compelling options for individuals seeking a fulfilling and impactful career including a superior benefit package, competitive salaries and a flexible work environment fostering work/life balance. SHSU offers programs that support a healthy work-life balance, contributing to employee well-being and job satisfaction, as well as, professional development opportunities with our educational assistance and dependent assistance programs.

Position Information

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.

Refer Applicants To

• Contact Name: Dr. Dallin Adams
• Title: Assistant Professor
• Media & Communications Department
• Box 2207
• Huntsville, TX 77341
• Contact Phone: 936-294-4502
• Contact Email: dra041@shsu.edu

Position Details

Duties Performed in the Usual Course of the Job

The Department of Media and Communication at Sam Houston State University invites applications for a full-time Assistant Professor of Practice in Public Relations and Advertising position, beginning in Spring or Fall 2027.

The successful candidate will teach primarily in the Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication program and contribute to the Public Relations and Advertising concentration. This position is intended for an experienced communication professional who can bring current industry practice into the classroom and prepare students for careers in public relations, advertising, and related fields.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach a 4/4 course load, including courses such as Introduction to Digital Social Media, Principles of Public Relations, Public Relations and Advertising Writing, Public Relations and Advertising Campaigns, and Social Media Campaigns.
• Develop and teach applied, project-based courses that incorporate client work, campaigns, and community partnerships.
• Advise and mentor students on academic, professional, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Support student organizations and career development initiatives.
• Participate in curriculum development and assessment activities.
• Engage in departmental, college, university, and professional service.
• Build and maintain relationships with industry partners, alumni, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and government agencies to support internships, networking opportunities, and community engagement.

Educational Requirements for the Position

• A Ph.D. in public relations, advertising, mass communication, or a closely related field.
• A distinguished record of professional experience in public relations, advertising, digital marketing, social media management may be considered in lieu of the terminal degree.

Experience Required for the Position

An outstanding candidate for the position will bring: several years of professional experience with PR and/or Advertising; strong letters of recommendation and should also demonstrate outstanding potential in research and/or creative activity.

Special Instructions Summary

To ensure full consideration, applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter detailing the applicant’s qualifications, relevant experience, and interest in the position; a current CV; and contact information for three references, addressed to Dr. Dallin Adams (dra041@SHSU.EDU )

Please note: References provided in the References section of the application will receive an automated email reference request at the time the application is submitted.

For full consideration, apply by October 19th, 2026; the position will remain open until filled.

Open Until Filled

Yes

EEO Statement

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. How did you learn about this position?
   
   • The Chronicle of Higher Education
   • TWC - Work in Texas
   • Inside Higher Ed
   • Higher Ed Jobs
   • HERC - Higher Education Recruitment Consortium
   • SHSU Website
   • SHSU Employee
   • Other
2. If your response to the question above was "Other" please indicate from what source.
   • (Open Ended Question)
3. If your response to the question above was "SHSU Employee" please indicate employee's name and department.
   • (Open Ended Question)

Candidate Documents

Required Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae (Faculty)
2. Cover Letter
3. Reference Contact Information

Optional Documents

1. Statement of Teaching Philosophy
2. Letter of Recommendation 1
3. Letter of Recommendation 2
4. Letter of Recommendation 3
5. Transcripts