Gardner-Webb University (GWU), located in the quaint town of Boiling Springs, North Carolina, stands as a beacon for those seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just 45 minutes from Charlotte, this private Christian university offers a unique blend of academic rigor and faith-based community. Jobs at Gardner-Webb University span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff opportunities, all centered around its mission to provide Christ-centered education that prepares students for leadership and service.
The university employs over 300 full-time faculty and staff, fostering an environment where educators and professionals can thrive. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track professor jobs or administrative positions in student affairs, GWU emphasizes holistic development, integrating spiritual growth with professional excellence. With an enrollment of approximately 3,500 students, the institution maintains small class sizes, allowing faculty to build deep connections with students.
Careers here are not just jobs; they are vocations aligned with Baptist principles. The university's commitment to excellence is evident in its Division I athletics program in the Big South Conference, which creates dynamic roles in sports management and coaching.
Founded in 1907 as Boiling Springs High School by the Boiling Springs Baptist Church, Gardner-Webb evolved into Gardner-Webb College in 1942 and achieved university status in 1993. This rich history shapes its job culture, emphasizing service, scholarship, and faith. Today, as part of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, GWU's employment opportunities reflect a dedication to educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
The mission statement underscores preparing graduates for global leadership through innovative teaching and research. This translates to jobs that encourage faculty to engage in undergraduate research and community outreach, such as partnerships with local hospitals for nursing programs or businesses for MBA initiatives.
Gardner-Webb University boasts over 40 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs across six schools: the School of Business, College of Health Sciences, School of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, Divinity School, and Graduate School of Physician Assistant Studies. Jobs in these areas are plentiful, particularly in high-demand fields like nursing (BSN and MSN programs), where clinical instructors mentor hands-on training.
In the School of Business, roles focus on accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship, often requiring real-world application through case studies. The School of Education hires for teacher preparation programs, aligning with North Carolina standards. For those interested in liberal arts, the College of Arts and Sciences offers positions in biology, psychology, and digital media, with opportunities for interdisciplinary work.
Explore higher ed faculty jobs or university job types to see how these align with your expertise.
Jobs at Gardner-Webb University include:
Check adjunct professor jobs or professor jobs for current listings. For a full overview, visit our university job types page.
To help understand key terms in academic hiring at GWU:
For faculty jobs at Gardner-Webb University, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, etc.) in the relevant discipline is standard. For example, nursing faculty need MSN minimum, preferably DNP. Research focus varies: in sciences, it's lab-based studies on regional ecology; in business, applied economics impacting North Carolina's economy.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (3-5 for assistant professors), grant funding from bodies like NSF, and 2-3 years teaching undergraduates. Skills and competencies encompass:
Administrative roles prioritize leadership, like 5+ years in higher ed management. Learn more via how to become a university lecturer.
The application process starts on GWU's careers page or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, and a statement of Christian faith.
Tips: Use our free resume template and winning academic CV guide. Tailor for Boiling Springs' community focus.
Gardner-Webb University actively promotes diversity through the Office of Multicultural Affairs, hosting events like Black History Month celebrations and Hispanic Heritage activities. The Envision Program supports underrepresented students, extending to hiring practices with targeted recruitment for minority faculty. In 2023, GWU increased diverse hires by 15%, reflecting commitment to inclusive excellence within its faith framework. Employee resource groups foster belonging.
Work-life balance at GWU is supported by flexible scheduling, especially post-COVID hybrid options for admin. Benefits include health insurance, retirement matching, tuition remission (up to 50% for dependents), and 10 paid holidays plus generous PTO.
Campus life buzzes with chapel services, Runnin' Bulldogs basketball games (attendance over 3,000 per home game), and community events like the annual Christmas tree lighting. Boiling Springs' low cost of living (20% below national average) and proximity to outdoor recreation enhance quality of life. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every 6 years and wellness programs including gym access and counseling.
The 225-acre campus features modern facilities like the Tucker Student Center and spacious residences, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Beyond salary (average faculty $65,000-$90,000), perks include relocation assistance, professional development funds ($2,000/year), and child care subsidies. GWU's low turnover (under 10%) stems from its supportive culture. For career advice, see postdoctoral success tips.
In summary, jobs at Gardner-Webb University offer purpose-driven careers. Search higher ed jobs, explore higher ed career advice, or visit university jobs. Employers can post a job to attract talent.
