Assistant Professor of Political Science

Full-time

Starting date: Fall 2025

Southern Virginia University seeks applications for an Assistant Professor of Political Science, focusing on American government and politics. The position starts in the fall 2025 semester. The main responsibilities include teaching, undergraduate advising, and university service.

The ideal candidate will have evidence of effective teaching in small classes. The position also includes academic advising, course design, and continued development of a growing political science major. A PhD in political science is strongly preferred, though candidates with a Master’s degree in political science will also be considered.

Candidates should have graduate training and teaching experience in American politics. Teaching responsibilities will include a course in the core curriculum on US political institutions and the Early Republic, as well as introductory and upper-division political science courses in American politics and comparative politics. The ability and willingness to teach an introductory survey of American history is also preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teaching responsibilities will include a course in the core curriculum on US political institutions and the Early Republic, as well as introductory and upper-division political science courses in American politics and comparative politics. The ability and willingness to teach an introductory survey of American history is also preferred.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in political science

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in political science is strongly preferred

Applications

Applications should include a CV, a letter of interest (addressing the desired qualifications, the university’s mission, and evidence of teaching effectiveness), and a list of 3 professional references. These materials should be sent as a single pdf to provost@svu.edu. A sample of research may also be included, in a separate PDF.

The application should also include at least three letters of recommendation, which may be sent separately by recommenders to provost@svu.edu. Southern Virginia University is an equal-opportunity employer. Applications will be reviewed immediately, and the position will remain open until filled.

About Southern Virginia University

Southern Virginia University is a private, faith-based institution of higher education aligned with the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a university, we gather faithful Latter-day Saints and those who share our values, lift intellectually, socially, and spiritually, and launch into successful lives and careers. Applicants are invited to learn more about the university at svu.edu/mission.