Factors Affecting Theatre Faculty Job Satisfaction: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Abstract: Of the main factors that influence faculty experiences, job satisfaction has received significant attention from scholars. However, very little research has focused on the arts, with no studies examining the impact of these factors on theatre faculty. Using a national survey that included open-ended questions and was completed by 153 faculty in the spring of 2022, we evaluated factors specifically important for theatre faculty job satisfaction. We examined the qualitative data through thematic analysis, and the results showed that clear and reasonable criteria for tenure and promotion, mentorship, department chairs, collegiality, work load, and campus climate all affect morale and theatre faculty job satisfaction. The specific suggestions we provide on how to improve faculty experiences can guide institutional leadership in their efforts to create welcoming, supportive, diverse, and inclusive environments.