Working at McMurry, your next career step!

McMurry University, located in Abilene, Texas, stands as a beacon for those seeking meaningful careers in higher education. This private liberal arts institution, affiliated with the United Methodist Church, provides a nurturing environment for faculty and staff dedicated to undergraduate teaching and student development. Jobs at McMurry University span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff opportunities, all centered on fostering a close-knit community where educators can make a direct impact on students' lives.

A liberal arts university like McMurry emphasizes broad education across humanities, sciences, and professional fields, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. With an enrollment of approximately 1,300 students, the university maintains small class sizes, averaging 15-20 students, allowing instructors to personalize their teaching. The campus spans 75 acres in Abilene, a mid-sized city in West Texas known for its friendly atmosphere, low cost of living, and proximity to larger hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth.

🎓 History of McMurry University

Founded in 1923 through the merger of McMurry College and West Texas College, McMurry University has a rich history rooted in Methodist values of scholarship and service. Named after Bishop William Fletcher McMurry, it began as a junior college before expanding to four-year programs in the 1920s. Over the decades, it evolved into a full liberal arts university, gaining university status in 1990. Key milestones include the establishment of its nursing program in 1973 and the addition of graduate programs in the 2000s, though it remains primarily undergraduate-focused.

The university's history reflects resilience, navigating financial challenges and expansions like the 2013 renovation of its science facilities. Today, it upholds traditions such as the War Hawk mascot and annual events like Homecoming, creating a stable foundation for long-term careers in academia.

Academic Programs and Departments Hiring at McMurry University

McMurry offers over 30 majors, with strong departments in business, education, nursing, biology, and religion. The College of Arts and Sciences houses programs in English, history, and mathematics, while professional schools cover accountancy, computer science, and exercise physiology. Faculty jobs often arise in teacher education, given Texas's demand for certified educators, and in health sciences amid regional healthcare growth.

Staff roles support these programs through admissions, student success centers, and athletics. For insights into various university job types, explore our guide. Recent hires have included assistant professors in chemistry and coaches for NCAA Division III sports, reflecting the university's commitment to well-rounded education.

Types of Jobs at McMurry University

Careers at McMurry include tenure-track faculty, visiting professors, adjunct instructors, department chairs, deans, librarians, counselors, and maintenance staff. Faculty positions emphasize teaching loads of 12-15 credit hours per semester, with service to the Methodist-affiliated community. Administrative jobs like director of career services or HR specialist offer stability, while higher ed admin jobs involve strategic planning.

• Faculty roles in core disciplines like education and business.
• Staff positions in student affairs and facilities.
• Executive leadership, such as provost or vice president.

Check higher ed faculty jobs or administration jobs for current listings.

Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at McMurry University

For tenure-track faculty positions, a PhD or EdD in the relevant field is standard, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in history for humanities roles. Master's degrees suffice for some lecturer positions, but terminal degrees are preferred. Nursing faculty need MSN or DNP with clinical licensure. Administrative roles require bachelor's degrees plus experience; executive positions often seek advanced degrees like MBA.

Texas higher education standards, governed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, ensure qualifications align with regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Research Focus and Expertise Needed for Positions

While primarily teaching-oriented, McMurry encourages faculty research, particularly in undergraduate mentorship. Expertise in areas like renewable energy in biology or digital humanities in English is valued. Grants from sources like the National Science Foundation support projects, with focus on West Texas issues like water conservation. Publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations strengthen applications.

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Competencies

Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of teaching, grant writing, and curriculum development. Skills like proficiency in learning management systems (e.g., Canvas), data analysis for assessment, and interpersonal communication are essential. Competencies in inclusive pedagogy and student advising are prioritized, alongside soft skills like adaptability in a small-campus setting.

• Publications or presentations in field-specific journals.
• Experience with accreditation processes.
• Commitment to faith-based service learning.

📋 Application Process and Tips for Jobs at McMurry University

The application process begins on the university's careers page, requiring a letter of application, CV, transcripts, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Submit electronically; interviews may include teaching demonstrations. Tips: Customize your CV using our free resume template, highlight Texas teaching experience, and learn about Methodist values. Network at conferences like those by the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators. Follow up post-submission and prepare for Abilene relocation discussions.

1. Review job description thoroughly.
2. Tailor documents to mission alignment.
3. Practice virtual interviews.
4. Research faculty for potential collaborators.

For CV advice, see how to write a winning academic CV.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at McMurry University

McMurry fosters an inclusive environment through its Diversity Council, which organizes workshops on unconscious bias and supports Latinx Heritage Month events. The university recruits via HBCU networks and offers affinity groups for LGBTQ+ faculty. In 2022, it achieved Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (HERC) membership, boosting underrepresented hires by 15%. Programs like dual-language education reflect Abilene's Hispanic population.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life at McMurry University

Employees enjoy 4-day summer schedules, 20+ PTO days, and tuition remission for dependents. Abilene's sunny climate, with 230 sunny days yearly, complements outdoor activities on campus trails. Campus life features War Hawk athletics, chapel services, and community barbecues, blending professional growth with personal well-being. Proximity to Dyess Air Force Base adds military family support resources.

Faculty praise the collaborative culture, low bureaucracy, and family-friendly policies, making it ideal for long-term careers in Texas higher ed.

Conclusion: Pursue Your Career at McMurry University

Jobs at McMurry University offer a unique blend of teaching passion, community impact, and professional growth in Abilene, Texas. Explore openings via higher ed jobs, career advice at higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your profile at recruitment. Connect with like-minded professionals shaping future leaders.