Posting on February 21, 2026
Director of Online Learning - Teaching Faculty
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a non-tenure track, open rank faculty position as the Director of Online Learning beginning July 1, 2026. Responsibilities for the position include overseeing the College's online undergraduate programs, including: instructor hiring, enrollments and scheduling; leading course development, revision and rollouts; liaising with faculty, department heads, instructional designers, graduate online program directors and coordinators, Penn State World Campus, financial and HR offices, and the dean's office; collaborating to plan and implement marketing initiatives; communicating with students; providing service to the college and university, including representing the College on committees across the University related to undergraduate online education; and other duties as needed. The Director will also be responsible for spearheading the development of new online initiatives for the College, including workforce education offerings, 1-credit and non-credit professional development courses, and micro-credentialing/badging opportunities.
In addition to directing the College's undergraduate online programs, the successful candidate will be expected to teach several classes across our undergraduate online curriculum in either or both the Strategic Communications or Digital Media and Journalism programs. Experience in managing, teaching and developing online courses and curriculum is required. We are looking for an individual who enjoys working with a faculty that is collegial, collaborative and professional. Depending on the experience and qualifications a candidate brings to the position, starting appointment will be an Assistant, Associate or Teaching Professor.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with program assessment and accreditation is preferred. Previous management or supervisory experience is also a plus. A master's degree in mass communications or a related discipline is required for this position. Professional experience in mass communication fields is preferred. On-site residence is strongly encouraged. Our programs are accredited through the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC).
Interested candidates must submit an online application at http://hr.psu.edu/careers and should upload the following application materials: letter of application/cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin on March 16, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our https://hr.psu.edu/current-employee/benefits (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our https://hr.psu.edu/current-employee/benefits/post-doc-appts page.)
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
Apply online at https://apptrkr.com/6931834 CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review https://police.psu.edu/annual-security-reports.