Assistant Professor of Music (Music Theory)

Position Title:

Assistant Professor of Music (Music Theory)

Compensation:

$54,000 - $56,000

Department:

School of Music

Start Date:

08/16/2027

About this opportunity:

The School of Music invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position of Assistant Professor of Music (Music Theory). We are interested in candidates who are particularly invested in undergraduate music theory pedagogy.

Employer will consider sponsorship.

What you'll do and what you will bring:

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Teaching duties are three courses per semester for the first four years.

• Teach the full range of theory offerings, such as fundamentals, aural skills, counterpoint, advanced undergraduate theory classes, as well as graduate courses in areas of interest.

• Maintain an active program of research and publication in music theory appropriate for faculty at a major research university.

• Participate in recruitment, program development, and service to the School of Music, College of Fine Arts, University, and profession.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Doctorate completed by the time of appointment
• A minimum of three years of teaching experience (at least one beyond the graduate-assistant level), ideally in the undergraduate theory sequence.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctorate degree
• Experience with undergraduate music theory pedagogy
• Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching
• Ability to contribute to the research output of the School of Music
  

How to apply:

Please direct inquiries regarding this vacancy to Dr. Franklin Larey, Director of the School of Music, [email protected]

The following application materials are required:

• Cover letter explaining your interest in, and qualifications for, the position
• Curriculum vitae
• Writing sample

In addition, applicants are asked to provide the contact information of at least three referees.

Consideration Date: to ensure full consideration, applications must be received by December 1, 2026.

(Applications will continue to be accepted after the full consideration date, until a sufficient applicant pool has been achieved or the position is filled. The closing date is subject to change without notice to applicants.)

What we offer:

At Ball State University, we understand the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. That's why we offer 12 paid sick days and 10 holidays a year. Plus, our paid parental leave (6 weeks) is there for life's most significant moments. We offer affordable health and dental insurance, robust long-term disability and life insurance plans, as well a range of retirement benefits to provide financial security to you and your family. These benefits ensure that you can focus on your work and personal growth without worrying about the unexpected.

When you work for us, you are family. And to show our support of your family, we will cover 90 percent of your child's (or children's) undergraduate college tuition at Ball State. This offer is good from the very first day you start. It's just one way we do our part to uplift you.

Let's fly together toward a secure and prosperous tomorrow.

Curious about our excellent benefits package?

We have developed a calculator that shows you the value of our core benefits.

Select the Total Compensation Calculator - Faculty and download our calculator spreadsheet.

Relocation Program: MakeMyMove

 

Looking for a place where your career, community, and quality of life can grow together? Muncie and Delaware County offer the advantages of a university community with the accessibility and affordability of a mid-sized city—short commutes, local arts and culture, parks and trails, educational opportunities, healthcare, athletics, and a strong sense of connection.

Through the City of Muncie’s MakeMyMove program, eligible new residents may access relocation incentives, university-related benefits, co-working options, and community-building opportunities designed to help them get settled and connected.

Current benefits for eligible participants may include:

• Up to $5,000 cash for relocation

• Co-working space courtesy of The Innovation Connector
• Access to the Ball State University Library
• One-semester Rec Fit pass at Ball State University
• Discounted Ball State Athletics tickets
• Help desk for connecting to local resources
• Opportunity for board participation
• Six-month YMCA membership

Relocation programs on MakeMyMove have specific eligibility requirements, and benefits may vary by program. Applicants should review the current MakeMyMove page to confirm eligibility, available benefits, and program status.

Ball State’s support for relocation resources and community partnerships aligns with Destination 2040: Our Flight Path, the University’s strategic plan. The plan calls our University to work with community partners to promote talent attraction and retention, foster economic growth in East Central Indiana, and strengthen the economic and social vitality of the communities we serve.

Explore the program and check your eligibility through MakeMyMove.