Employment Opportunities at ACU

Abilene Christian University is affiliated with the fellowship of the Church of Christ. All qualified applicants for these positions must be professing Christians and be active, faithful members of a congregation of the Churches of Christ and willing to support the Christian mission and purpose of the university.

• Teach applied voice to undergraduate music majors and non-majors.

• Teach additional courses in vocal music, such as Vocal Pedagogy, Diction, and Solo Vocal Literature.

• Teach music courses to a general student population (e.g., Music Appreciation).

• Engage in scholarly/creative activity appropriate to a tenure-track position.

• Contribute to recruitment efforts and departmental service.

• Participate in university service, committee work, and professional organizations.

About the Abilene Christian University Department of Music:

The Abilene Christian University Department of Music, housed in the Williams Performing Arts Center, offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for students to grow as musicians, performers, and scholars. With approximately 80 music majors, the department provides a comprehensive array of ensembles and performance opportunities while maintaining a close-knit, student-focused environment.

ACU’s Department of Music is staffed by accomplished performers and scholars committed to fostering excellence. The department offers degrees including the Bachelor of Music in Music Education (instrumental and vocal), Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, Bachelor of Arts in Music, and a minor in music. ACU is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The department generously scholarships both music majors and non-music majors.

Students in the department enjoy numerous performance opportunities, from large symphonic ensembles to small chamber groups. The department regularly hosts renowned guest artists, composers, and conductors. Additionally, the biennial Concerto/Aria Competition allows exceptional vocalists, instrumentalists, and pianists to perform as soloists with the Civic Orchestra of Abilene.

The vocal area includes multiple ensembles and performing opportunities. Choral ensembles include the A Cappella Chorus, University Chorale, Gospel Choir, Chamber Singers, and student-led contemporary a cappella groups. The ACU Opera performs two productions each academic year. All ensembles perform in regular concerts, tours, and outreach programs in regional and international venues. Recent notable performances include Texas Music Educators Association (A Cappella; 2025), Carnegie Hall (A Cappella; 2024), Acqui Terme, Italy (ACU Opera; 2023). Student soloists are regularly recognized as top performers at national and international vocal competitions. ACU vocal graduates are highly recruited to top graduate schools and school districts.

Application Process:

Completed applications will include:

• A Letter of Interest highlighting qualifications for the position

• Curriculum Vitae

• Statement of Teaching Philosophy

• Statement on the Relationship of Christian Faith and Teaching

• Statement of Personal Faith Journey

• Links to recent performances

• Copy of paper(s) and/or publication(s)

• Academic/Professional Letter of Recommendation

• Letter of Recommendation from a Church Leader

• Contact information for three professional references

• Copies of transcripts for academic work (official transcripts will be required upon final offer)

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, applications should be submitted by April 4.

To apply, please visit https://acu.edu/about/careers/.  Questions or inquiries may be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Jeff Goolsby, director of choral studies, at jeff.goolsby@acu.edu. 

YOU MUST COMPLETE AN APPLICATION ON THE ACU CAREERS WEBSITE (WWW.ACU.EDU/CAREERS) TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS ROLE. Applying through Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, etc. is not considered a complete application.

• Earned doctorate in vocal music (or a master’s degree with commensurate professional experience).

• Demonstrated record of successful teaching in applied voice.

• Experience teaching other courses in the field (e.g., Vocal Pedagogy, Diction, Solo Vocal Literature).

• Ability to communicate effectively in small and large classroom settings.

• Commitment to the mission and values of Abilene Christian University.

ACU does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, disability, genetic information, national or ethnic origin in employment opportunities, in keeping with applicable state and federal law.

ACU is committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment and protecting the university's financial and physical assets.  Therefore, Abilene Christian University conducts background checks on all candidates for employment in security sensitive positions.