Connecticut College, located in New London, Connecticut, is a private liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academic programs and close-knit community. Founded in 1911, it transitioned from an all-women's institution to coeducational in 1969, maintaining a student body of approximately 1,850 undergraduates. The college emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, undergraduate research, and global engagement, making it an attractive destination for academic professionals seeking meaningful careers. Jobs at Connecticut College span faculty, administrative, and support roles, offering opportunities to contribute to a vibrant liberal arts environment near the Connecticut shoreline.
The institution's commitment to the liberal arts model means positions often involve teaching small classes, mentoring students, and participating in residential life. With its beautiful 750-acre campus, Connecticut College provides a setting that balances academic excellence with community involvement. Professionals interested in higher education jobs will find roles that align with innovative teaching and research in fields like neuroscience, environmental science, and dance.
Established as Connecticut College for Women in 1911 by local leaders responding to the need for women's higher education, the college opened with 89 students. It quickly gained reputation for academic strength, particularly in sciences and humanities. In 1969, it became coed, expanding its reach. Key milestones include the development of the first undergraduate neuroscience major in the U.S. in 1973 and the creation of the Goodwin-Niering Center for the Environment in 1996, highlighting its environmental focus. Today, jobs at Connecticut College build on this legacy of innovation and inclusivity.
The college's history shapes its hiring, prioritizing candidates who value shared governance and student-centered education. Historical commitment to women's education influences ongoing diversity efforts, making it a pioneer in inclusive hiring practices.
Connecticut College offers over 50 majors across liberal arts disciplines, with strengths in the sciences, social sciences, and arts. Departments like Biology, Economics, Government, and Human Development draw top talent for faculty positions. Interdisciplinary programs such as Gender, Sexuality, and Intersectionality Studies and Environmental Studies require experts who can bridge fields.
Jobs at Connecticut College often involve contributing to the college's 4-1-4 academic calendar, where students complete four courses in fall and spring, and a January term project. This structure allows faculty to engage deeply with students, fostering mentorship. For insights into lecturer roles, explore how to become a university lecturer.
Careers at Connecticut College include tenure-track professor positions, visiting assistant professors, lecturers, research associates, and administrative roles in admissions, advancement, and student life. Staff jobs cover library, IT, and facilities. Tenure-track roles emphasize research and teaching, while administrative positions focus on supporting the college's mission. For a full overview, visit university job types.
Liberal Arts College: A type of undergraduate institution emphasizing broad education in humanities, sciences, and social sciences, promoting critical thinking over specialized training.
Tenure-Track Position: A faculty role leading to tenure after a probationary period, based on teaching, research, and service evaluations.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Academic approaches combining multiple fields, like Connecticut College's connections curriculum linking majors.
Sabbatical: Paid leave for faculty to pursue research or professional development, typically every 7 years.
For faculty jobs at Connecticut College, a PhD in the relevant field is required for tenure-track and most research positions. Lecturer roles may accept a master's degree with significant teaching experience. Administrative positions in academic affairs often require advanced degrees like an EdD or PhD, plus higher ed experience. All candidates must demonstrate commitment to undergraduate teaching excellence.
Examples include a PhD in Chemistry for lab-based roles or a PhD in English for humanities departments. The college values ABD (All But Dissertation) candidates for some entry-level positions but prefers completed doctorates.
Connecticut College prioritizes research that involves undergraduates, aligning with its liberal arts ethos. Key areas include neuroscience (pioneering program), climate science through the Kate and Mark Goodwin-Niering Center, and international relations via the Toor Cummings Center for International Studies and Liberal Arts. Expertise in grant-funded projects or collaborative work is essential. Faculty are expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences like those of the American Association of Colleges and Universities.
Preferred candidates have 2-5 years of teaching experience, multiple publications, and success securing grants from agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF). Experience mentoring diverse students or in study abroad programs is highly valued. For administrative jobs, prior roles in enrollment management or DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) offices stand out. Publications in top journals and conference presentations enhance competitiveness.
Essential skills include strong pedagogical abilities, research design, data analysis, and interpersonal communication. Competencies in inclusive teaching, curriculum development, and technology integration (e.g., learning management systems) are critical. Soft skills like adaptability and collaboration support the college's team-taught courses and committees.
The application process for jobs at Connecticut College begins with submitting materials through Interfolio or the college's portal: cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy, research statement, and three references. Interviews involve teaching demos and campus visits.
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Connecticut College fosters an inclusive environment through the Office of Institutional Equity, Title IX compliance, and affinity groups like the Black Students and Employees Alliance. The Prism Project supports LGBTQ+ community, while the Center for the Comparative Study of Race and Ethnicity promotes dialogue. Hiring prioritizes diverse candidates via EEOC compliance and search committee training. Recent initiatives include bias training and faculty diversity hires in STEM.
Employees enjoy a supportive culture with generous vacation, parental leave, and sabbaticals. The campus features trails, arboretum, and proximity to beaches for recreation. Wellness programs include gym access, counseling, and family events. New London offers cultural vibrancy with theaters and dining, while the college hosts lectures, arts performances, and athletics. Tenure-track faculty average 3/3 course load with research time, promoting balance.
Campus life integrates work with community: dining halls encourage mingling, and residential advising builds bonds. Benefits include TIAA retirement and health plans competitive for liberal arts colleges.
Jobs at Connecticut College offer rewarding opportunities in a dynamic liberal arts setting. Whether pursuing higher ed jobs, faculty roles, or administration, the college provides growth amid scenic New London. Leverage higher ed career advice and explore university jobs listings. Institutions can post a job to attract talent. Connect with about us for more.
