Theory instructor in the Bachelor’s program in Fine Art

What is your role?

• As a design instructor, you will design courses that encourage students to experiment and explore, and guide them in developing an artistic practice. In addition, you will supervise the research projects of our graduating students;
• You create an inspiring learning environment, teach skills, and guide students as they develop into versatile professionals;
• You will apply your expertise and experience when collaborating with fellow faculty members. Together with them, you will deliver instruction that reflects current developments in the professional field and society. You will contribute to the organization and implementation of various program components and provide input for curriculum renewal.
• As a module owner, you are responsible for both the content and the organization of the module, and you contribute to its improvement. In doing so, you build upon existing educational materials. Where necessary, you update lesson plans, assignments, module descriptions, or assessment methods;
• You will teach classroom lessons as part of a team. You will also lead study groups where students practice the material covered in class;

What do you bring to the table?

• You have a well-founded and multifaceted perspective on theoretical education in relation to practice;
• You have a degree in art or cultural history and have a good command of both English and Dutch;
• You have extensive teaching experience and find great fulfillment in teaching and mentoring students in the field of art, and you are eager to contribute to educational development;
• You enjoy working with others but are also able to work independently, plan your tasks, and make decisions;
• You are an empathetic professional who recognizes—and actively seeks out—commonalities within a diverse and inclusive learning community.

What do we have to offer?

With us, you’ll work in an inspiring environment where creativity, technology, and innovation come together. You can be completely yourself here. The school year has dynamic peak periods when we all pull together, but this is balanced by a generous number of vacation days. You will receive a salary in accordance with the HBO collective bargaining agreement (scale 11: €4,427.64 to €6,677.44) and attractive benefits, such as a year-end bonus, a museum year pass, and a bicycle plan.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe it is important that everyone feels welcome and valued. We believe that diversity enhances creativity and strive to bring together the diverse perspectives and experiences from society within our organization. We actively take steps to promote diversity and inclusion and collaborate with organizations that support us in this effort. In addition, we organize (internal) events and gatherings during Keti Koti, International Women’s Day, and participate in Pride Utrecht.

Apply

You can apply using the "Apply" button below. A cover letter is not required. However, we would like to receive your resume and answers to the questions below so that we can get a good idea of what you bring to the table. The application deadline for this position is June 17, 2026. Interviews will take place on June 26, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Arthur Herrman at arthur.herrman@hku.nl

Questions

• Describe your perspective on the relationship between theoretical education and artistic practice within art education.
• In your current or previous teaching role, how have you contributed to the development or improvement of education?
• A safe, inclusive, and diverse learning environment is important in this program. Can you describe how you foster this, particularly when students have different backgrounds, perspectives, or needs?
• What does “good teamwork” mean to you within an educational team? Using an example, describe how you plan to contribute to this.

About HKU

Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU) has eight academies spread throughout the vibrant city center of Utrecht. With over 4,000 students, it is one of the largest art colleges in Europe. We offer more than 50 creative degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. This is where art, creativity, and innovation come together.

The DBKV bachelor’s program brings students together in a committed and dynamic learning community. This program prepares students for professional practice in arts education, both within and outside of schools. Our graduates are visual artists capable of integrating artistic practices with pedagogical and didactic processes, thereby playing an important and inspiring role in the arts education of learners. The program is designated as a TOP program in the Keuzegids 2026. The high level of student satisfaction is partly due to the positive atmosphere within the academy and the appreciation students have for their instructors.

Learn more about working at HKU