Gustavus Adolphus College, located in the charming town of Saint Peter, Minnesota, is a premier private liberal arts college offering a close-knit community and rigorous academics. Founded in 1862 by Swedish Lutheran immigrants, it serves approximately 2,200 undergraduate students with a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, emphasizing personalized education. Jobs at Gustavus Adolphus College span faculty, staff, and administrative roles, attracting professionals passionate about undergraduate teaching and mentorship. Whether you're seeking tenure-track professor jobs or support positions in student services, the college provides opportunities in a supportive environment nestled in the United States' Midwest.
The institution's commitment to the liberal arts tradition means positions often involve interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and contributions to residential campus life. With its ELM (Exploration, Leadership, Mastery) initiative, employees help students thrive holistically. Explore higher ed jobs here to see how Gustavus fits your career path.
Gustavus Adolphus College traces its roots to 1862, when it was established as a coeducational college by the Augustana Lutheran Synod. Named after King Gustav II Adolphus of Sweden, it has evolved into a nationally recognized liberal arts institution while maintaining its Lutheran heritage. Key milestones include becoming one of the first coed colleges west of the Mississippi, expanding its Christ Chapel in 1961, and achieving Phi Beta Kappa chapter status in 2022, signifying academic excellence.
The culture revolves around 'Gustie Pride,' fostering values like integrity, community, and lifelong learning. This translates to jobs where employees participate in traditions like the Christmas in Christ Chapel concert or Linnaeus Arboretum events. Understanding this history is crucial for applicants, as roles often align with the college's mission of educating the whole person for a just, sustainable world.
Gustavus offers diverse positions tailored to its undergraduate focus. Faculty jobs include tenure-track professors in departments such as biology, computer science, economics, nursing, and music. Staff roles cover admissions counselors, residence life coordinators, and IT specialists. Common openings also include research assistants for undergraduate projects and administrative positions in advancement or athletics.
For detailed descriptions, visit our university job types page. Recent postings have included positions in environmental studies and health sciences, reflecting Minnesota's natural surroundings.
Most faculty jobs at Gustavus Adolphus College require a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field, such as a Doctor of Musical Arts for music positions or EdD for education roles. For staff, a bachelor's degree is standard, with master's preferred for senior roles.
Research focus emphasizes undergraduate involvement, with expertise in areas like climate science, public health, or Scandinavian studies aligning with the college's strengths. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 3-5 for assistant professor), securing grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF), or prior teaching at liberal arts colleges. Learn more about research jobs to prepare.
Key skills include strong pedagogical abilities for interactive teaching, communication for mentoring diverse students, and adaptability to a residential college setting. Competencies like data-driven decision-making, cultural competence, and grant writing are highly valued. For administrative jobs, proficiency in tools like Banner or Slate systems is beneficial.
Check how to write a winning academic CV for tailored advice.
To apply for jobs at Gustavus Adolphus College, visit the official careers page at gustavus.edu/hr/careers or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, diversity statement, and three references. The process involves initial screening, interviews (often virtual then on-campus), and a teaching demonstration.
For lecturer roles, see become a university lecturer.
Gustavus Adolphus College prioritizes diversity through its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Strategic Plan, aiming for a representative workforce. Initiatives include the All-College Recruitment Team for underrepresented hires, TRiO Student Support Services, and the LGBTQIA+ Advocate program. The college tracks progress via annual reports, with recent hires increasing faculty diversity by 15%. Affinity groups and bias training support inclusive environments.
In Saint Peter, Minnesota, Gustavus offers excellent work-life balance with a four-week winter break, summer flexibility for faculty, and family leave policies exceeding FMLA standards. Wellness perks include free gym access, counseling, and the Linnaeus Arboretum for recreation. Campus life buzzes with NCAA Division III athletics (Golden Gusties), music festivals, and community meals, creating a familial atmosphere. Proximity to Mankato and the Twin Cities provides urban access while maintaining a peaceful setting.
Employees enjoy professional development funds ($2,000 annually) and sabbaticals after six years.
Jobs at Gustavus Adolphus College combine meaningful work with a vibrant community in Saint Peter, Minnesota. From faculty mentoring future leaders to staff shaping campus experiences, opportunities abound. Leverage higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, and university jobs resources. Institutions like Gustavus value passionate professionals—post a job if recruiting, or apply today to join this esteemed community.
With strong support for research and teaching, Gustavus stands out in the liberal arts landscape. Tailor your search to Minnesota higher ed via United States Minnesota jobs or Saint Peter positions.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, typically 6-7 years, based on teaching, research, and service.
Liberal arts college: An undergraduate institution focusing on broad education in humanities, sciences, and arts, emphasizing critical thinking over specialization.
Sabbatical: Paid leave for faculty to pursue research or professional development, usually every 6-7 years.
Diversity statement: A document in applications explaining commitment to inclusive practices.
