Working at LeeU, your next career step!

Discovering Lee University and Its Career Landscape

Lee University, located in Cleveland, Tennessee, stands as a beacon of Christian higher education in the United States. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this private liberal arts institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and spiritual formation. With a student body of approximately 5,000 undergraduates and graduates, Lee emphasizes holistic development, preparing individuals for service in church and society. For those seeking higher ed jobs, Lee University provides diverse opportunities in teaching, research, administration, and support services, all grounded in its Church of God heritage.

The university's commitment to excellence is evident in its 50+ undergraduate majors and 20+ graduate programs, spanning fields like business, education, nursing, music, and biblical studies. Cleveland, TN, offers a cost-effective living environment with a strong sense of community, making it ideal for professionals balancing career and family life. Jobs at Lee University not only offer professional growth but also the chance to contribute to a faith-centered mission.

📜 A Brief History of Lee University

Founded in 1918 by the Church of God as a Bible school, Lee University has evolved significantly. It became Lee College in 1941 and achieved university status in 1997 under President Paul Walker. Today, led by President William M. Greer, it boasts accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and specialized accreditations in programs like music (National Association of Schools of Music) and teacher education.

This rich history shapes its job culture, prioritizing roles that align with its Pentecostal roots. Faculty and staff are expected to support the doctrinal statement, fostering an environment where faith integrates with academics. Understanding this background is key for applicants considering careers here.

Academic Programs Driving Job Opportunities

Lee University's academic portfolio fuels demand for specialized faculty and staff. The College of Arts & Sciences offers programs in biology, chemistry, and psychology; the Helen DeVos College of Education prepares future teachers; and the School of Music is renowned for performance degrees. Business administration, nursing, and theology also thrive, with graduate offerings in counseling and church ministries.

These programs create jobs in niche areas, such as music adjuncts or nursing instructors. The university's emphasis on experiential learning, including study abroad and internships, requires staff in career services and international programs. For a full list, explore university job types available across institutions like Lee.

Types of Jobs at Lee University

Careers at Lee span faculty, staff, and leadership roles. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and adjuncts in departments like religion and natural sciences. Administrative jobs cover admissions, financial aid, and HR, while support roles include librarians and IT specialists. Research assistant jobs support faculty projects, particularly in education and health sciences.

• Full-time faculty: Teach 12-15 credits per semester, advise students, conduct research.
• Adjunct professors: Part-time teaching, flexible for practitioners.
• Staff positions: Ongoing roles in student life, athletics, and facilities.
• Executive roles: Deans and directors overseeing colleges.

Many positions emphasize Christian service, with opportunities for research jobs in faith-based contexts.

Required Qualifications for Jobs at Lee University

To secure jobs at Lee University, candidates need strong academic credentials and alignment with its mission. For faculty roles, a PhD in the relevant field is standard (e.g., PhD in Music Education for pedagogy positions). Research focus varies: education faculty prioritize curriculum development, while sciences seek grant-funded researchers.

Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and teaching portfolios. Skills like curriculum design, student mentoring, and technology integration (e.g., Canvas LMS) are essential. All applicants must affirm the university's faith statement.

Definitions

Key terms for jobs at Lee University:

• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, typically 5-7 years, based on teaching, research, and service.
• Adjunct faculty: Part-time instructors hired per course, offering flexibility without full benefits.
• Sabbatical: Paid leave for faculty (usually one semester after 6 years) to pursue research or professional development.
• Doctrinal statement: Lee's formal beliefs based on Church of God tenets, required for employment.
• Terminal degree: The highest qualification in a field, like PhD or DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts) for professors.

💡 Application Process and Tips

Applying for jobs at Lee University involves these steps:

1. Search openings on Lee University jobs or AcademicJobs.com.
2. Prepare materials: CV highlighting faith integration, cover letter addressing the position, transcripts, references.
3. Submit online; some roles require video introductions.
4. Interview process: Campus visit, teaching demo, meetings with committees.
5. Background check and faith affirmation.

Tips: Customize your CV per how to write a winning academic CV. Reference Lee's mission. Network at Church of God events. For lecturer roles, review become a university lecturer advice. Prepare for questions on integrating faith and learning.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Lee University actively promotes diversity through the Office of Multicultural Affairs, hosting events like Cultural Showcase Week and scholarships for underrepresented students. Hiring practices include bias training and targeted recruitment at HBCUs and Hispanic-serving institutions. The IDEAL program supports international students, reflecting a global faculty body. Examples include affinity groups for women in STEM and first-generation professionals, ensuring an inclusive environment aligned with biblical principles of unity.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Lee University prioritizes employee well-being with generous PTO, health benefits, and tuition discounts (up to full for dependents). Faculty enjoy research leaves and professional development funds. Campus life buzzes with concerts, athletic events (NAIA Division I), and chapel services thrice weekly. Cleveland, TN, provides outdoor recreation, low cost of living ($35K median household), and proximity to Chattanooga. Employees rave about the familial atmosphere, with wellness centers and childcare options enhancing balance. Seasonal events like Homecoming foster community.

Why Choose a Career at Lee University?

Jobs at Lee University offer purpose-driven work in a supportive setting. With competitive salaries, retirement matching, and spiritual growth opportunities, it's ideal for those passionate about Christian education. Current openings often include music faculty, education coordinators, and admin roles. Monitor higher ed jobs and university jobs for updates.

In summary, pursuing careers at Lee University means joining a vibrant community shaping future leaders. Explore higher ed career advice, prepare with our free resume template and free cover letter template, and check post a job if recruiting. For Tennessee opportunities, visit US Tennessee jobs or Cleveland jobs.