Concordia College, Selma, often referred to by its acronym CCS, was a private historically black college (HBCU) nestled in the heart of Selma, Alabama, United States. Founded in 1922 by African-American Lutheran congregations seeking to train church workers, it operated as part of the Concordia University System under the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. Spanning a 60-acre campus in this city renowned for its civil rights history, the institution offered associate and baccalaureate degrees grounded in a traditional liberal arts foundation. Programs emphasized education, business, religious studies, and social sciences, preparing students for service in church and community roles.
Unfortunately, Concordia College, Selma ceased operations after the spring 2018 semester, citing prolonged financial distress and shrinking enrollment—from a high of about 650 students in the 1960s to unsustainable levels. Despite its closure, understanding jobs at Concordia College, Selma provides valuable insights into careers at small, faith-based HBCUs. These roles highlighted teaching, mentorship, and community impact in a supportive environment. For current opportunities, consider browsing higher ed jobs or university jobs at similar institutions.
The college's mission integrated Christian teachings with academic rigor, fostering responsible leadership. Faculty and staff contributed to a unique blend of Lutheran values and HBCU traditions, making jobs there rewarding for those passionate about underserved communities.
Jobs at Concordia College, Selma encompassed a range of academic, administrative, and support positions tailored to its small-scale, teaching-oriented setup. Faculty roles dominated, including full-time professors, adjunct instructors, and lecturers in disciplines like early childhood education, business administration, criminal justice, and theology. These positions involved delivering courses, advising students, and participating in chapel services.
Administrative jobs included roles in student affairs, admissions, financial aid, and human resources, often requiring experience in higher education management. Support staff positions covered maintenance, library services, and IT, supporting the campus's daily operations. For a deeper dive into university job types, these mirrored common higher education categories but with a strong emphasis on faith integration.
Salaries aligned with regional norms for small private colleges, with professors earning competitive pay for Alabama's higher ed landscape. Explore professor salaries for benchmarks.
To secure faculty jobs at Concordia College, Selma, candidates typically needed a master's degree in the relevant field, with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Education (EdD) strongly preferred for tenure-track positions. For example, education faculty required state certification alongside advanced degrees, while business instructors benefited from MBAs or professional certifications.
Administrative roles demanded bachelor's degrees minimum, often with master's in higher education administration or related areas. Preferred experience included 3-5 years in academia or nonprofit sectors, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and grant-writing success. Skills and competencies emphasized strong communication, cultural sensitivity given the HBCU context, and alignment with Lutheran doctrine.
Candidates strong in mentoring first-generation college students stood out, reflecting the college's retention focus.
While primarily undergraduate-focused, research at Concordia College, Selma centered on applied projects benefiting the Selma community, such as education equity studies or faith-based social services. Expertise in African-American history, civil rights education, or Lutheran theology was prized, given the campus's location near Edmund Pettus Bridge.
Faculty pursued modest scholarly activities, like conference presentations or community reports, rather than high-volume publications. Preferred experience involved collaborative grants from Lutheran sources or HBCU consortia. Skills included data analysis for student outcomes and interdisciplinary approaches blending liberal arts with vocational training.
The application process for jobs at Concordia College, Selma involved online submissions through the college's career portal or direct email to HR. Required materials: cover letter addressing faith commitment, curriculum vitae (CV), transcripts, three references, and a teaching philosophy statement. Interviews often included a teaching demonstration and theological discussion.
Actionable tips: Customize your CV to highlight HBCU or faith-based experience—review how to write a winning academic CV. Network via Lutheran Church events or Alabama HBCU conferences. Apply early, as small colleges fill positions quickly. Prepare for questions on diversity and community service. Post-closure, similar processes apply at active Alabama schools; check higher ed career advice.
As the only HBCU in the Concordia University System, diversity was core to Concordia College, Selma's identity. Initiatives included targeted recruitment of African-American faculty and students, partnerships with local churches for outreach, and programs like cultural heritage weeks tied to Selma's civil rights legacy. The college supported affirmative action in hiring, mentorship for underrepresented groups, and inclusive policies rooted in Lutheran social teachings.
Specific examples: STAARS program aided diverse student transitions; faculty development workshops addressed equity in teaching. These efforts created a welcoming environment, fostering cross-cultural dialogue on a predominantly Black campus with Lutheran influences.
Work-life balance at Concordia College, Selma thrived on its small, family-like atmosphere. Faculty enjoyed light teaching loads (12-15 credits per semester), ample advising time, and summers for personal pursuits. The 22-60 acre campus offered serene green spaces, residence halls, and facilities like Bakke Hall for community events.
Campus life buzzed with chapel services, student organizations, homecoming celebrations, and proximity to Selma's historic sites—ideal for civil rights enthusiasts. Staff benefited from flexible hours, professional development, and a supportive regents board. Challenges like financial strains were offset by strong colleague bonds and purposeful work. Selma's affordable living enhanced balance, with easy access to Montgomery or Birmingham.
Daily life included collaborative governance, faith-integrated activities, and events promoting retention and joy.
Key terms for understanding jobs at Concordia College, Selma:
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