Ashford University, located in Chandler, Arizona, has long been a leader in accessible higher education, particularly through its online programs. Now integrated into the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) since its 2020 acquisition, it continues to offer dynamic career opportunities for educators, administrators, and support staff. Jobs at Ashford University span teaching, program management, and operational roles, emphasizing innovative online delivery to serve a diverse student body across the United States.
The institution's focus on adult learners means many positions prioritize practical experience over traditional research pedigrees, making it appealing for professionals transitioning into academia. With a headquarters in sunny Chandler, Arizona, employees enjoy proximity to a vibrant tech and education hub while benefiting from remote work options. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions or administrative jobs, Ashford provides pathways to contribute to student success in fields like business administration, nursing, and education.
Established in 1918 as Mount St. Clare College in Clinton, Iowa, Ashford University transformed dramatically over the decades. It shifted to a for-profit model under Bridgepoint Education in the early 2000s, expanding rapidly into online education to reach non-traditional students. By 2020, facing regulatory challenges common in for-profit higher ed, it was acquired by the University of Arizona, rebranding as UAGC while retaining much of its operational legacy under the Ashford name in some contexts.
This evolution has shaped its job market: from traditional campus roles to predominantly online faculty and virtual support positions. Today, jobs at Ashford University reflect a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and nonprofit academic rigor, with ongoing hiring in Chandler, AZ, to support national operations. Understanding this history helps candidates align their expertise with the university's mission of flexible, career-oriented education.
Ashford University offers over 80 degree programs from associate to doctoral levels, delivered 100% online except for select clinical requirements. Popular areas include the Forbes School of Business, College of Education, and College of Health, Natural and Social Sciences. These programs create steady demand for specialized instructors.
For instance, business faculty jobs require expertise in management and accounting, while education roles focus on curriculum design for K-12 preparation. Administrative positions support enrollment, student services, and technology integration. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or administration jobs to see alignments. The university's emphasis on competency-based education means jobs often involve innovative assessment methods, appealing to forward-thinking professionals.
Jobs at Ashford University are diverse, catering to various career stages. Common categories include:
Many are remote, aligning with remote higher ed jobs. For a full breakdown, visit university job types. Salaries vary, with faculty averaging $60,000-$90,000 annually based on experience, per higher ed benchmarks.
Required Academic Qualifications: Faculty jobs typically demand a master's degree minimum (e.g., MA in Education), with PhD or terminal degree preferred for full-time roles. Administrative positions often require a bachelor's plus relevant certifications.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Emphasis on applied research in online pedagogy, student retention, and program outcomes rather than pure scholarship. Expertise in fields like healthcare administration or organizational leadership is prized.
Preferred Experience: 3-5 years of teaching, ideally online; publications in practitioner journals; grant writing or accreditation involvement. Prior work in for-profit or online higher ed is a plus.
Skills and Competencies: Proficiency in learning management systems (e.g., Canvas), strong virtual communication, data-driven decision-making, and cultural competency for diverse students. Soft skills like adaptability and student-centered mindset are crucial.
These align with broader higher ed jobs trends, preparing candidates for success.
The application process for jobs at Ashford University begins on their careers page at the UAGC site. Steps include:
Actionable tips: Highlight quantifiable achievements (e.g., 'Improved student retention by 15%'), use keywords from the job description, and prepare a teaching philosophy statement. Network via LinkedIn or higher ed career advice resources. Customize for Arizona's job market via Arizona insights. Reference free resume templates for polish.
Ashford University commits to diversity through the University of Arizona's framework, including affirmative action hiring and underrepresented minority recruitment. Specific examples: Employee Resource Groups for women in STEM, LGBTQ+ allies, and veterans; bias training for hiring panels; and scholarships promoting inclusive faculty. In 2023, diverse hires increased by 20% in faculty roles. These efforts foster an equitable environment, especially vital for online education serving global students. Learn more about higher ed HR jobs supporting such initiatives.
Though primarily online, Ashford's Chandler, Arizona, headquarters offers a modern campus vibe with collaborative spaces, wellness programs, and proximity to Phoenix amenities. Remote faculty enjoy flexible schedules—teach asynchronously, grade on your time—promoting balance. Benefits include health insurance, tuition remission, and paid time off exceeding industry averages. Campus life features team-building events, professional development workshops, and a supportive culture amid Arizona's sunny climate. For adjuncts, part-time nature allows external pursuits. This setup suits parents, retirees, or multi-career professionals seeking lecturer jobs with autonomy.
Adjunct Faculty: Part-time instructors hired per course, without full benefits or tenure track.
Core Faculty: Full-time academics responsible for program quality and student advising.
Learning Management System (LMS): Software like Canvas for delivering online courses, hosting materials, and assessments.
Competency-Based Education (CBE): Model where students advance by mastering skills, not seat time, central to Ashford's approach.
Terminal Degree: Highest qualification in a field, e.g., PhD or EdD for faculty roles.
Jobs at Ashford University offer rewarding paths in innovative higher education. Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, seek higher ed career advice, explore university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. With Chandler, AZ's growth, now's the time for careers here. Check how to become a university lecturer and global jobs report for trends. Policy shifts may influence opportunities.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
There are currently no jobs available.
Get alerts from AcademicJobs.com as soon as new jobs are posted
