Programme Supervisor MFA: Set and Costume Design

About the role

The University of the Arts Sharjah (UAS) is recruiting a full-time Programme Supervisor for the MFA in Set and Costume Design, a role equivalent to an Assistant Professor. Starting 4 January 2027, the post reports to the Executive Director and focuses on teaching and supervising postgraduate students in the Master of Fine Arts (Theatre and Live Performance Creation: Set and Costume Design) programme, taking part in thesis supervisory committees. The candidate may also take on Set and Costume Design duties for UAS productions once confirmed.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver all Set and Costume Design courses in the postgraduate programme, prioritising safe practice and industry-relevant, innovative teaching.
• Supervise MFA student designers and mentor students as needed, and take part in thesis supervisory committees.
• Organise and facilitate activities in the Set and Costume Design concentration classes.
• Collaborate with the postgraduate faculty to administer course assessments and give structured feedback.
• Support the Programme Leader with timetabling, scheduling, hiring additional designers for productions, and outreach and recruitment.
• Manage curriculum documentation, course files and course administration in line with quality assurance standards.

Required profile

• Terminal degree (MFA or PhD) or verified equivalent industry or professional experience, or additional qualifications in professional performing arts education.
• 8 to 10 years minimum of professional theatre experience as a Set and Costume Designer.
• Specialist knowledge of Set and Costume Design, including current design software suites.
• Experience giving feedback and evaluating student performance, and experience with research and scholarly activity.
• Willingness to relocate to the UAE and to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Desirable: documented success teaching MFA Set and Costume Design or similar, teaching or mentoring design students, experience in a multinational educational environment, and experience with educational software such as Moodle, Blackboard or Canvas.

Required skills

• Office 365 suite, especially Excel.
• Curriculum development and flexible approach to andragogy.
• Excellent organisational, verbal and written communication skills.