Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU), often referred to as Bethune-Cookman College in historical contexts, stands as a beacon of higher education in Daytona Beach, Florida. Founded on October 3, 1904, by the visionary educator and civil rights leader Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, it began as the Daytona Normal and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls with just $1.50, five students, and unwavering faith. Dr. Bethune's resilience transformed it into a thriving institution. In 1923, it merged with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, becoming a co-educational college, and achieved university status reflecting its expanded scope.
Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, B-CU is a private historically black university (HBCU) on an 85-acre urban campus near the Halifax River and Daytona Beach's iconic Main Street Pier. Its motto, 'Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,' underscores a commitment to producing ethical leaders who drive community change. With around 2,700 students, B-CU offers bachelor's and master's degrees across colleges like Arts and Humanities, Business, Education, Nursing, Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (CNES), and Social Sciences. Programs emphasize practical skills, cultural heritage, and real-world impact, making it a hub for jobs at Bethune-Cookman University that blend academia with service.
The university's legacy includes Dr. Bethune's influence on national policy and its role in NIRSA's founding. Today, in 2026, B-CU continues advancing student success through partnerships like UNCF, focusing on institutional transformation amid higher education's evolving landscape.
Jobs at Bethune-Cookman University attract educators, researchers, and administrators passionate about HBCU missions. Current openings, as seen on platforms like Indeed, include grounds managers, processors, criminal justice consultants, research specialists, and program associates. Faculty roles span disciplines like maritime studies, nursing, and business, while administrative positions support operations in an environment prioritizing diversity and growth.
For a deeper dive into university job types, B-CU offers tenure-track professor jobs, adjunct lecturer jobs, and higher ed jobs in administration. Research assistant jobs and postdoctoral positions align with CNES initiatives. The HR department actively recruits diverse talent, emphasizing roles that contribute to B-CU's 115-year history of resilience. Salaries vary, but professor salaries at similar HBCUs average competitively, with opportunities for advancement in a supportive setting.
Whether seeking faculty jobs or admin roles, B-CU's postings reflect its focus on student-centered innovation. Explore higher ed jobs here for tailored listings.
Academic qualifications for jobs at Bethune-Cookman University are rigorous, ensuring faculty and researchers advance its scholarly mission. For tenure-track or full-time faculty positions, a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., EdD, DMA, or MFA) in the relevant field is standard. Examples include a PhD in Criminal Justice for social sciences roles or a Doctor of Nursing Practice for health programs.
Adjunct lecturer jobs may accept a master's degree with significant professional experience, particularly in fields like education or business. Administrative higher ed jobs, such as deans or directors, often require advanced degrees plus leadership credentials. Research roles demand expertise in grant-funded projects, aligning with B-CU's emphasis on data-driven outcomes. These standards prepare candidates to mentor diverse students, fostering B-CU's legacy of excellence.
B-CU's research focus centers on student success, community advancement, and HBCU-specific challenges like equity in STEM and health disparities. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, securing grants from bodies like NSF or UNCF, and prior work at minority-serving institutions. For instance, candidates with experience in maritime research or cultural heritage studies stand out, given Daytona Beach's location and B-CU's programs.
Essential skills and competencies encompass cultural competency for diverse classrooms, strong pedagogical abilities, leadership in collaborative settings, and technological proficiency for hybrid teaching. Competencies like ethical decision-making and service orientation mirror Dr. Bethune's vision. Learn how to thrive in research roles to align with these expectations.
The application process for jobs at Bethune-Cookman University begins on the official HR page at cookman.edu/hr/job-opportunities.html. Submit a tailored cover letter highlighting alignment with B-CU's mission, a comprehensive CV, transcripts, references, and a teaching philosophy statement. For faculty roles, include evidence of research or service.
Actionable tip: Quantify achievements, e.g., 'Mentored 50+ underrepresented students to 90% retention.' This process, streamlined via online portals, values candidates committed to service.
As a flagship HBCU, Bethune-Cookman University champions diversity through targeted hiring, UNCF partnerships, and programs like the Institute for Research and Community Transformation. Initiatives include faculty diversity workshops, inclusive curriculum development, and recruitment from underrepresented groups. B-CU's HR emphasizes attracting diverse talent, reflecting its history of empowering Black excellence while welcoming all. Examples: Annual diversity hiring fairs and support for first-generation scholars, fostering an equitable campus.
Work-life balance at B-CU benefits from a family-oriented culture, professional development via faith-based wellness, and flexible policies. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals, mentorship programs, and proximity to Daytona Beach's beaches for recreation. Campus life buzzes with Wildcats athletics (MEAC conference), over 100 clubs, cultural events honoring Dr. Bethune, and community service. Reviews highlight personalized faculty support and a welcoming vibe, though improvements in facilities are noted. Living in Daytona Beach offers coastal charm, events like Bike Week, and work-life harmony in a supportive HBCU environment.
Jobs at Bethune-Cookman University offer meaningful impact in a historic HBCU setting. From faculty requiring PhDs to admin roles valuing diversity skills, opportunities abound in Daytona Beach. Tailor applications with higher ed career advice, explore higher ed jobs, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. B-CU's legacy awaits committed professionals.
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