Assistant Professor, Higher Education

Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States

About the Role

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. The role requires physical presence on campus. Faculty are expected to produce impactful research and train graduate students to become productive practitioners in higher education and student affairs. The Higher Education Administration programs include a Master of Education (MEd) and a Doctor of Education (EdD), both offered in a fully online synchronous format.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver graduate courses for the MEd and EdD programs (fully online, synchronous).
• Engage in innovative teaching practices and supervise doctoral capstone projects.
• Conduct original research in higher education and/or student affairs, seek external funding, and collaborate with others.
• Contribute to program, school, college, university, and professional service.
• Foster relationships with community partners to enhance program outreach and impact.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, or a related area (completed by August 2026).
• Demonstrated ability to deliver accurate, concise, and quality communication (verbal and written).
• Experience setting clear performance expectations and providing 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.
• Knowledge of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED).
• Experience and dedication to working with diverse populations.
• Commitment to collegiality and collaboration.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Founded in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi is a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university and a leading research institution. The university serves over 13,000 students across campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, additional teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and online. Southern Miss is recognized for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and communication disorders. It is also a national leader in disciplines such as cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development. The university offers programs preparing graduates for emerging technologies, business leadership, education, and nursing. Southern Miss holds accreditation in four major areas of the arts and competes in 17 NCAA Division I sports as the Golden Eagles.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship.