University of Central Arkansas

Assistant Professor of Public Relations (TT) at UCA

The School of Communication in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor of Public Relations. The appointment will begin August 16, 2025.

The successful candidate would bring a collaborative spirit and innovative perspective to our current faculty, specializing in mixed social scientific approaches to nonprofit, corporate, agency, multicultural, and political public relations. Applicants should be prepared to teach foundational introductory courses, as well as advanced courses in a range of topics, including but not limited to multimedia techniques and digital storytelling; social media management and analytics; crisis communication; data-driven decision-making; and ethical considerations in the era of AI. The successful candidate will also be encouraged to develop one or more electives in areas of expertise. Experience with or membership in the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and/or Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) is a plus.

Other responsibilities will involve publishing research that contributes to the field of public relations; engaging in professional development related to the area of specialization; and serving on school, college, and university committees. Guiding and supporting students in their career development is also integral.

Qualifications

Required

• A Ph.D. in public relations, strategic communication, or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrated record or potential for scholarly publication
• Post-secondary teaching experience

Preferred

• Professional experience in public relations, strategic communication, or related field
• Experience in creating a climate that helps attract and is inclusive of all students

Candidates will be required to electronically submit:

• Cover letter of application, addressing qualifications and fit
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy
• Unofficial transcripts
• Evidence of effective teaching and a brief research agenda
• Contact information for three references through the online UCA employment application process. Please apply by visiting https://jobs.uca.edu/postings/16359
• Direct questions to (Keli Jacobi, MA, MS, APR, search committee chair).

Review of applications begins in December 2024 and continues until the position is filled.

Other important information about this vacancy

About the Public Relations Program

The public relations program at UCA is a collaborative, service learning-focused curriculum that equips students with both practical skills to get jobs as professional communicators, and the strategic theory necessary to turn those into thriving careers helping people and organizations find their voice. Graduates advocate on behalf of businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and public figures in entertainment, politics and sports. The program is part of the School of Communication, which also offers degrees in communication; journalism; and writing, rhetoric, and information design. For more information, visit www.uca.edu/go/pr.

About the University of Central Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas, a leader in 21st-century higher education, is committed to excellence through the delivery of outstanding undergraduate and graduate education that remains current and responsive to the diverse needs of those it serves. The university’s faculty and staff promote the intellectual, professional, social, and personal development of its students through innovations in learning, scholarship, and creative endeavors. Students, faculty, and staff partner to create strong engagement with the local, national, and global communities. The University of Central Arkansas dedicates itself to academic vitality, integrity, and diversity. To learn more, visit www.uca.edu.

The University of Central Arkansas is located in Conway, Arkansas, which is a part of the Little Rock metropolitan area. As Conway is home to three institutions of higher education, it is called “The City of Colleges.” The area offers a short commute to Little Rock, numerous state and local parks, and a thriving local arts and music community.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal, sex-offender registry, financial history background check and drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non- discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Central Arkansas is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution dedicated to attracting and supporting a diverse student, faculty, and staff population through enhanced multicultural learning environments and opportunities. In keeping with its nondiscrimination policy in employment, admissions and other functions and programs, the university considers employees and students on the basis of individual merit and will not discriminate against a person on the basis of gender, race or color, ethnicity, religion, spiritual beliefs, national origin, age, familial status, socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, disability, political beliefs, intellectual perspective, genetic information, military status, or other factors irrelevant to participation in its programs.