• Assistant Professor, Higher Education

    University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg, MS)


    Assistant Professor, Higher Education

     

    The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor, Higher Education.

    Position Details

    Location Hattiesburg

     

    118 College Drive

     

    Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

     

    United States

     

    Division School of Education

     

    Position Type Faculty

     

    Employment Status Full Time

     

    Grant Funded No

     

    Pay Grade

     

    Generic Grade

     

    Posting Close Date July 31, 2026

    Special Instructions to Applicants

    Review of applications will begin September 15, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Inquiries about the position can be directed to Dr. Holly Foster ([email protected]). A completed application will include 1) a cover letter describing applicant strengths and qualifications for the position, 2) a CV, 3) contact information for three references, and 4) academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable; official transcripts are necessary for hire). Application materials can be uploaded to the HR site found here: https://jobs.usm.edu.

     

    Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

    Job Summary

    The School of Education at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) invites applicants for two full-time, tenure-track, Assistant Professor positions beginning August 2026 with requirements to be physically present on campus . Our faculty have established records of scholarship in the areas of student affairs and higher education. We aim to recruit applicants who will produce impactful research, and who will emphasize training graduate students to become productive and thoughtful practitioners in multiple program areas. The School of Education’s Higher Education Administration programs include a Master of Education degree and a Doctor of Education degree. Both programs are offered in a fully online synchronous format. Qualified applicants will be prepared to contribute to the research and teaching missions of the School of Education at the graduate level.

     

    Primary Duties and Responsibilities

     

    + Teaching:

    a. Develop and deliver graduate courses for the MEd and EdD programs (fully online, synchronous)

    b. Engage in innovative teaching practices

    c. Supervise doctoral capstone projects

    + Research:

    a. Conduct original research in the field of higher education and/or student affairs

    b. Seek external funding and collaborate with others

    + Service:

    a. Contribute to the program, school, college, university, and profession

    b. Foster relationships with community partners to enhance the program’s outreach and impact

    + Contribute to the mission of the university and profession through service activities.

    + Perform other duties as assigned.

    Minimum Qualifications

    Doctoral degree in Higher Education, or Student Affairs or related area (by August 2026).

     

    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

     

    + Demonstrated ability to deliver accurate, concise and quality communication (verbal and written) in a timely manner to all populations.

    + Experience setting clear performance expectations and provision of meaningful feedback.

    + Experience and/or familiarity with technology use, particularly in the online learning environment.

    Preferred Qualifications

    Professional experience in student affairs and/or higher education administration.

     

    Teaching and/or research experience in one or more of the following: the history of higher education; higher education and student affairs leadership; educational research.

     

    Experience mentoring student research.

     

    Success securing external funding.

     

    Demonstrate knowledge of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED).

     

    Experience and dedication to working with all populations.

     

    Demonstrate commitment to collegiality and collaboratiom.

    About The University of Southern Mississippi

    Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

     

    Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

     

    We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

     

    The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.