Judith Swift shares a joint appointment as Professor of Communication Studies and Professor of Theatre at the University of Rhode Island. Swift specializes in the direction and development of new scripts, has written/developed scripts for film and video which have aired on several PBS affiliates, and has constructed, authored or co-authored over 40 productions based on historical events or science. She has directed work both Off and Off-Off Broadway; as well as several tours for British theatre festivals and numerous productions for New England-based companies including Wickenden Gate, Trinity Repertory Company, Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre, Ocean State Lyric Opera, Rites and Reason Theatre, and Theatre-by-the-Sea. Her teaching interests include humor in communication, nonverbal and subtextual communication, as well as presentation skills.

She has taught extensively in acting styles, improvisation, nonverbal acting, and directing for the theatre. Swift has also developed courses for the Honors Program focusing on sustainability and its expression in film. She is currently developing a musical on the management of coastal estuaries. She also regularly coaches political candidates, corporate officers, and civic officials regarding communication and presentation skills. Swift frequently serves as a consultant to not-for-profit theatres on administrative structure, mission development, board development, strategic planning, marketing and fundraising.