Assistant Professor, Political Science and Philosophy

Northwood University seeks a dynamic individual with strong interpersonal skills, significant industry or research experience, and a strong record of teaching at the undergraduate level to begin teaching in the Fall 2026 semester at our Midland, Michigan campus. The candidate will be hired with the rank of assistant professor for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Northwood University is a teaching-focused university with HLC and ACBSP accreditation offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in business-related disciplines. The teaching load for full-time undergraduate faculty is five courses per semester (Fall and Spring semesters). Candidates with an established research agenda and a demonstrated record of scholarly publications may be eligible for an appointment with a research focus with a teaching load of four courses per semester (Fall and Spring semesters). Candidate will be expected to teach undergraduate courses in Political Science and Philosophy. Courses include Introduction to American Government, relying primarily on American Political Thought and Development and secondarily on Institutions, and Philosophy of American Life and Business, a course drawing on political theory, economics, history, and business principles to explain the free-enterprise system. Additional responsibilities and expectations may include participation in on-going curriculum planning and review; internship and/or practicum supervision; research and scholarly activities; professional/instructional development; university committee activities; recruitment and retention activities; and other related duties as assigned.

Required:

• Master'sdegreeinPolitical Science,orcloselyrelatedfield, froman institutionallyaccreditedinstitution
• Experienceteaching political science
• Abilitytointeracteffectivelywithawideanddiverserangeofstudentsandcolleagues
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills in a variety of delivery formats

Preferred:

• Earned doctorate or terminal degree froma regionallyaccredited institution (such as J.D., Ph.D., OBA; ABD candidates considered if completion date is within one year of hire)
• Experienceteachingundergraduate courses
• Substantial hours/research in normative/historical political theory, especially authors/subjects applicable to American political thought and development. Ideal second field is American politics (institutions)
• Graduate degree or 18 graduate hours in philosophy, economics, or history

Northwood University stands apart in higher education with a philosophy grounded in The Northwood Idea — emphasizing freedom, free enterprise, personal responsibility, and limited government. We seek individuals who are both accomplished in their professions and inspired by the power of enterprise to improve lives. The ideal candidate will feel a strong alignment with Northwood’s mission and values, embracing a culture of academic excellence, accountability, and earned success.

Applicants are encouraged to learn more about The Northwood Idea philosophy and outcomes at https://www.northwood.edu/about/