Eastern Michigan University (EMU), located in Ypsilanti, Michigan, stands as a prominent public research institution in the United States. Established in 1849, it began as the Michigan State Normal School, one of the first teacher-training institutions west of the Appalachian Mountains. Today, EMU serves over 16,000 students through more than 200 undergraduate programs and 150 graduate offerings across 16 colleges and schools. Its commitment to accessible higher education makes it a hub for diverse career opportunities, particularly jobs at Eastern Michigan University that attract educators, researchers, and administrators passionate about student success.
The campus spans 800 acres near the Huron River, offering a picturesque setting just 45 minutes from Detroit and close to Ann Arbor. This strategic location in Michigan enhances its appeal for professionals seeking urban access alongside a supportive academic environment. EMU's Carnegie classification as a Doctoral University with High Research Activity underscores its growing emphasis on scholarly pursuits, creating demand for specialized faculty and research positions.
Jobs at Eastern Michigan University have evolved alongside the institution's transformation. From its origins training teachers in the mid-19th century, EMU gained university status in 1956 and expanded into fields like aviation, business, and technology. Key milestones include the establishment of the College of Business in 1964 and the College of Health and Human Services, which now lead in enrollment and job postings.
Historically, EMU prioritized educator preparation, leading to a legacy of stable faculty jobs in education. In recent decades, research funding has surged, with over $20 million annually supporting grants in sustainability, health equity, and STEM education. This growth translates to dynamic employment opportunities, from entry-level research assistant jobs to executive higher ed jobs, reflecting EMU's adaptation to modern academic demands in Michigan.
EMU's academic strengths directly influence its job market. The College of Arts and Sciences offers programs in biology, psychology, and world languages, necessitating faculty with interdisciplinary expertise. The College of Education remains a cornerstone, producing Michigan's top educators and requiring lecturers skilled in innovative pedagogy.
In health sciences, jobs focus on nursing, occupational therapy, and public health, while the College of Technology hosts unique aviation and engineering roles. Business programs emphasize entrepreneurship, attracting administration jobs in career services. These areas ensure a steady stream of Eastern Michigan University jobs tailored to Michigan's workforce needs, such as preparing students for regional industries like automotive and healthcare.
Diverse positions abound at EMU, including tenure-track professor jobs, adjunct professor jobs, research jobs, and higher ed jobs in administration. Faculty roles span departments, while staff positions cover HR jobs, executive roles, and support services. For a full breakdown, visit our university job types page.
Remote higher ed jobs are increasingly available, especially post-pandemic, aligning with trends in remote higher ed jobs.
To understand jobs at Eastern Michigan University fully, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at EMU, a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant discipline is standard. For example, biology professors need a PhD in biological sciences, while education roles may require an EdD. Lecturer jobs often accept a master's degree with significant experience. Research assistant jobs typically demand a bachelor's or master's, depending on funding sources.
EMU prioritizes research in applied fields. Expertise in education technology, environmental sustainability, and health disparities is sought. Centers like the Early Childhood Education Institute and the Wireless Sensor Networks Lab drive grants, requiring skills in data analytics and interdisciplinary collaboration. Check research jobs for similar opportunities.
Candidates with peer-reviewed publications, grant funding (e.g., from NSF or NIH), and teaching portfolios stand out. Prior experience at community colleges or in Michigan public schools is valued for education roles. For postdocs, 2-5 years of postdoctoral experience enhances competitiveness.
Essential skills include strong communication, curriculum development, and student mentoring. Technical proficiencies like statistical software (R, SPSS) or grant writing are crucial. Soft skills such as cultural competence and teamwork align with EMU's inclusive ethos. Explore university lecturer advice for development tips.
EMU jobs are posted on its careers site and platforms like AcademicJobs.com. The process involves:
Tips: Customize materials to EMU's mission; use free resume templates. Network at conferences, highlight Michigan ties, and follow up promptly. For CVs, see how to write a winning academic CV.
EMU champions diversity through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, offering the Inclusive Hiring Protocol and bias training for search committees. Programs like the Faculty of Color Mentoring Initiative support underrepresented scholars. In 2023, 35% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding state averages. The PRIDE Center and Women's Resource Center foster inclusive campus jobs.
EMU promotes balance with flexible scheduling, wellness programs, and an Employee Assistance Program. Campus life includes Rec/IM Building for fitness, cultural events at Pease Auditorium, and Division I athletics as the EMU Eagles. Ypsilanti's vibrant arts scene, farmers markets, and Huron River trails offer recreation. Proximity to Detroit provides professional development via higher ed career advice.
Family-friendly perks like on-campus childcare and community engagement events enrich daily life.
Competitive salaries average $80,000-$120,000 for faculty, per professor salaries data. Benefits encompass health/dental/vision, 403(b) retirement matching, 24 vacation days, and tuition remission (100% for employees, 90% for dependents). These make Eastern Michigan University jobs attractive in Michigan's higher education sector.
Ready to pursue jobs at Eastern Michigan University? Browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, and higher ed career advice. Employers can post a job to reach top talent. With employer branding secrets from our guide, connect with EMU-caliber professionals.
