Instructional Assistant Professor of Sports Journalism

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU >

Position Description

The School of Journalism and New Media at the University of Mississippi invites applications for a nine-month instructional assistant professor of Journalism, with an emphasis in sports, starting August 2026.

Specifically, we seek an accomplished digital storyteller who can teach a variety of sports journalism and traditional journalism courses. Successful candidates should be able to teach students to report, write, capture video, and edit professional-quality sports stories across broadcast, streaming, and social platforms. This hire will have the opportunity to shape curriculum, collaborate with athletics and local media partners, and elevate the school’s profile in sports media by supporting the development of outstanding content and internship and career placement.

This is a non-tenure track position The teaching load is four courses each semester and may include both face-to-face and online courses. The successful candidate will be expected to be an active member of the School and University communities, participating in service to the school, university, and profession.

Department of Journalism

The Department of Journalism consists of 12 full-time tenure-track/tenured and instructional faculty, with more than 350 majors. The program, established in 1947, emphasizes fundamental skills, such as reporting, writing and visuals, while consistently evolving to match the dynamic media landscape. The department also features instructors with decades of professional experience in news organizations across the state and the nation. In Spring 2024, the School of Journalism and New Media received a $4 million gift to establish the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation to advance journalistic standards and promote media literacy by equipping journalists and citizens alike with tools to navigate the complex media environment, fostering a more resilient and informed public.

School of Journalism and New Media

The School of Journalism and New Media offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Journalism, Integrated Marketing Communications, and Media and Communication. Learn more about the School of Journalism and New Media at

Position Details

Appointment: 9 Month

Assignment Type: Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates will be evaluated based on the following:

• An advanced degree (ex. MA, MS, JD, etc.) in Journalism, Communication, Media or a related field
• Experience and/or potential to teach courses related to sports media and journalism
• A record of professional achievement related to sports media and journalism

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Application Procedures

For priority consideration, applicants should submit their files by October 24. The position will remain open until it is filled. To apply, upload the following:

• A cover letter summarizing the applicant’s qualifications for the position
• Complete curriculum vitae
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness
• Contact information for three references

*All materials must be submitted electronically. Printed materials will not be accepted.

Please direct inquiries to the chair of the search committee: Bill Cassidy (bcassidy@olemiss.edu)

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.