American University (AU), located in the heart of Washington, District of Columbia, stands as a premier institution for higher education, offering a dynamic environment for academic professionals. Known for its commitment to public service and global engagement, AU attracts job seekers interested in faculty positions, research roles, and administrative opportunities. The university's proximity to key policy centers makes it ideal for careers in international relations, public affairs, and law. Jobs at American University span teaching, research, and support roles, providing pathways for educators and scholars to contribute to impactful work.
With a student body exceeding 13,000 and renowned schools like the School of International Service (SIS) and the Washington College of Law, AU fosters an environment where professionals can thrive. Whether you're pursuing higher ed faculty jobs or administrative positions, the university emphasizes innovation and service.
Founded in 1893 by an act of Congress, American University was established with a vision to train public servants, inspired by President Grover Cleveland and Bishop John Fletcher Hurst. Initially focused on Methodist affiliation, it evolved into a non-sectarian private research university. Key milestones include its role during World War II as a military training center and the establishment of SIS in 1957, which became a global leader in international studies. Today, AU ranks among top universities for international relations and political science, per U.S. News & World Report.
This rich history shapes jobs at American University, prioritizing roles that advance public good and global understanding. Faculty positions often involve policy-relevant research, reflecting the university's charter emphasis on service to the nation and world.
Jobs at American University include tenure-track professors, adjunct lecturers, postdoctoral researchers, research assistants, and administrative staff. Faculty roles dominate in colleges like Arts and Sciences, Business (Kogod), Communication, Education, International Service, Public Affairs, and Law. For instance, SIS frequently hires for international relations and justice programs. Staff positions cover HR, IT, and student services. When exploring position types, visit university job types for detailed breakdowns.
Tenure-track positions offer long-term stability after a probationary period of research, teaching, and service. Adjunct roles provide flexibility for part-time teaching. Research jobs focus on grants and projects, often interdisciplinary.
To understand jobs at American University, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at American University, a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., JD for law, DMA for music) in the relevant field is standard. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or adjuncts. Administrative roles like deans require advanced degrees plus leadership experience. Research assistants typically need a bachelor's or master's. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL or equivalent.
In competitive fields like public policy, candidates need specialized training from accredited institutions. AU values credentials from peer universities, aligning with its research-intensive classification.
American University prioritizes research in global challenges: international security, environmental policy, communications, and social justice. Expertise in quantitative methods, area studies (e.g., Middle East, Latin America), or data analytics is sought. Centers like the Center for Israel Studies or Key Executive Leadership Programs guide hiring. Successful candidates often have interdisciplinary backgrounds, such as combining political science with economics.
Employers favor candidates with peer-reviewed publications (3-5 for assistant professors), grant experience (e.g., NSF, Fulbright), and teaching records. Policy reports or think tank work enhance applications for SIS roles. Prior research assistant jobs or fellowships signal readiness. Diversity statements and mentorship experience are increasingly valued.
Key skills include strong communication, data analysis (using R or Stata), grant writing, and cross-cultural collaboration. Teaching competencies cover curriculum design and student mentoring. Soft skills like adaptability and ethical leadership are crucial in DC's policy hub. Technical proficiency in learning management systems (e.g., Blackboard) is common.
The process starts with online submission via AU's careers site: CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy, research statement, and three references. Interviews involve presentations; campus visits for finalists. Tips:
Timeline: Postings open year-round; peak in fall. For lecturer paths, see become a university lecturer.
AU's Inclusive Excellence Initiative recruits underrepresented minorities, with goals for 50% diverse hires. Programs include the Women & Politics Institute and LGBTQ+ resources. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion offers training and affinity groups. Recent efforts: Pipeline programs for first-gen faculty and bias training. These attract candidates valuing equity.
AU supports balance with 4/10 flex schedules, parental leave (12 weeks), and EAP wellness programs. Campus life features Tenleytown metro access, AU Gym, and events like International Week. DC location offers Smithsonian museums, policy internships, and networking. Employees enjoy tuition remission for dependents and retirement matching. Proximity to embassies enriches global roles.
Jobs at American University offer rewarding paths in a vibrant DC setting. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your academic journey.
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