Assistant Professor of Music Theory

**Assistant Professor of Music Theory**

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Music Theory.

**Position Details**
Location
Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division
School of Music
Position Type
Faculty
Employment Status
Full Time
Grant Funded
No
Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date
December 1, 2026

**Special Instructions to Applicants**
Required Documents:
Letter of interest
Curriculum vitae that includes a list of courses taught
Contact information for three references

Supporting Materials:
Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the
United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The
University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). **Job Summary**The School of Music at the University of Southern Mississippi is now accepting applications for the position of **Assistant Professor of Music Theory**.

Area of specialization is open. This nine-month, tenure-track position will begin in August 2027.

The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a public Carnegie R1 research university with its main campus in Hattiesburg and a coastal campus in Long Beach. It has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938. The School of Music offers the B.A., B.M., and B.M.Ed. degrees, the M.M. and M.M.E., and the D.M.A. in performance and pedagogy and in conducting. Students perform in ensembles that include the USM Symphony Orchestra, the Wind Ensemble, the Southern Chorale, the Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company, and The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band. More than 40 full-time faculty perform, present, and publish nationally and internationally and bring that work into the studio and classroom. The School enrolls students from a wide range of backgrounds, from across Mississippi and around the world.

For full consideration, applications must be submitted by **November 16, 2026**.

Questions may be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Joseph E. Jones ([email protected]).
**Primary Duties and Responsibilities**

1. Teaching expectations – Music theory faculty typically teach six courses per year, three per semester, and serve on graduate student committees. The School offers courses ranging from undergraduate theory and ear training to graduate-level seminars.
2. Research expectations – Faculty develop a clear research agenda with a growing record of peer-reviewed conference presentations and publications.
3. Service expectations – Faculty engage in service activities within the School of Music, particularly graduate project advising, and across the university. Faculty are also encouraged to serve or otherwise participate in their professional organizations.

**Minimum Qualifications**Ph.D. in music theory by the time of appointment

University teaching experience as instructor of record
Evidence of (or potential for) scholarly achievement in the field of music theory **Knowledge, Skills & Abilities**

* Familiarity with (or ability to learn) Canvas, the university’s online learning management systems (LMS).
* Familiarity with (or ability to learn) Microsoft Office, including Outlook and Teams.
* Familiarity with university-level recruitment and/or retention strategies.

**Preferred Qualifications**

Experience mentoring or advising graduate student research
Experience teaching undergraduate music theory and ear training sequences
Experience teaching graduate-level courses

**About The University of Southern Mississippi**

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern
Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing
students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students
in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the
Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We
are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of
the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in
polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing
language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national
leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,
nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter
fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such
as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of
business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by
producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of
excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation
accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our
student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and
persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit [www.usm.edu](https://www.usm.edu).

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.