Cheyney University of Pennsylvania holds a distinguished place in American higher education as the nation's first Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Founded on February 25, 1837, through the bequest of Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys, it began as the African Institute with a $10,000 endowment—one-tenth of his estate—dedicated to educating people of African descent as teachers. Renamed the Institute for Colored Youth shortly after, it evolved into Cheyney University, becoming part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) while maintaining its HBCU status.
Over 185 years, Cheyney has shaped leaders who influenced Philadelphia, the region, nation, and world. Its motto, 'Today's Leaders, Tomorrow's Leaders,' underscores a commitment to academic excellence, character, and social responsibility. Despite challenges, including financial hurdles in recent decades, the university rebounded, regaining accreditation and focusing on undergraduate empowerment. With a suburban campus at 1837 University Circle in Cheyney, Pennsylvania—part of Thornbury Township near Philadelphia—it enrolls around 663 full-time undergraduates, fostering a tight-knit community.
This rich history informs jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, where employees contribute to a legacy of resilience and innovation in minority education.
Cheyney offers a spectrum of undergraduate programs across departments, emphasizing practical skills and interdisciplinary exploration. Popular majors include Business (especially Administration and Management), Sociology, Biology, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Early Childhood Education. Specialized offerings like Recreation and Leisure Management prepare students for diverse careers.
The curriculum aligns with the university's HBCU mission, providing broad access to resources for underrepresented groups. No graduate programs exist currently, allowing faculty to focus deeply on undergraduate teaching and mentoring. Departments such as Business, Education, and Professional Studies (home to ACBSP-accredited business programs) drive academic rigor.
For those eyeing faculty jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, understanding these programs is key—positions often tie directly to departmental needs, like composition in English or accounting in Business.
Jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania span faculty, staff, administrative, and student roles, reflecting its small size and mission focus. Tenure-track positions, such as Assistant Professor of English (starting Fall 2026, emphasizing developmental composition) and Assistant/Associate Professor of Business with Accounting emphasis (Fall 2026), seek scholars to advance teaching and research. These roles involve engaging diverse students, scholarly development, and university service per tenure policies.
Staff opportunities appear on the Human Resources employment page, inviting passionate individuals to 'pursue your passion at Cheyney.' Student jobs include tutoring via the Academic Success Center, residence life positions (Resident Advisors, work-study), and internships through the Internship Institute, bridging academics and real-world application. Administrative roles support enrollment management, housing, and career development.
The university receives high application volumes, prioritizing exceptional candidates aligned with values like scholarship, diversity, integrity, respect, and service. Explore university job types for broader context on roles like faculty positions or administration jobs.
To fully grasp opportunities, key terms include:
These concepts underpin the culture and expectations for jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania.
Securing jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania demands targeted preparation. Required academic qualifications for faculty typically include a PhD or terminal degree in the field—e.g., Doctorate in English Literature or Rhetoric for composition roles, or DBA/PhD in Accounting/Business.
Research focus or expertise needed aligns with programs: pedagogy and student success in English, financial accounting and business ethics in Accounting. Publications in peer-reviewed journals demonstrate scholarly impact.
Preferred experience encompasses prior teaching (especially with diverse/minority students), grant writing, curriculum development, and service like committee work. For staff, relevant professional experience (e.g., HR, advising) is essential.
Skills and competencies prized include strong communication, cultural competence, adaptability in small-class settings, technology integration (e.g., for hybrid learning), and commitment to HBCU values. Learn more via how to become a university lecturer.
The application process for jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania is streamlined yet competitive. Start at cheyney.edu/human-resources/employment-opportunities/, clicking 'Apply Here' for postings. Submit cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, and teaching philosophy online—no phone status checks due to volume.
Actionable tip: Review recent openings like Fall 2026 faculty roles for specifics. Use free resume templates from AcademicJobs.com to polish applications.
Cheyney's identity as the first HBCU drives robust diversity efforts. Since inception, it empowered African Americans when opportunities were scarce, now welcoming all races while prioritizing minorities. Initiatives include inclusive hiring valuing diverse backgrounds, curriculum embedding social justice, and partnerships like the Internship Institute for equitable access.
Job postings emphasize integrity and respect, with President Aaron A. Walton championing a vibrant community. As a PASSHE member, it aligns with state equity goals. For branding insights, see employer branding secrets. This fosters an environment where employees thrive in promoting access.
Work-life balance at Cheyney benefits from its small scale and supportive culture. Faculty enjoy tenure paths with service flexibility, while staff access professional development. Reviews on platforms like Indeed note mission passion offsetting demands, with suburban location aiding commutes from Philadelphia.
Campus life buzzes: 1837 University Circle features residence halls managed by dedicated teams, offering RA roles blending work and living. Vibrant activities—clubs, recreation programs, events—broaden perspectives. Students and employees engage in lifelong learning, athletics, and community service, enhancing fulfillment. Proximity to urban amenities balances rural charm, ideal for families or professionals seeking purpose-driven roles.
Pursuing jobs at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania means joining a pioneering HBCU shaping futures. With openings like 2026 faculty hires, contribute to undergraduate excellence amid historic grounds. Its focus on leaders offers meaningful impact.
Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, seek higher ed career advice, or explore university jobs. Institutions can post a job to attract talent. Cheyney awaits those embracing its legacy.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
