Northern State University (NSU), located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is a public liberal arts institution founded in 1901 as the Northern Normal and Industrial School. Today, it serves over 3,000 students with undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like teacher education, business administration, music, sciences, and humanities. As part of the South Dakota Board of Regents system, NSU emphasizes student-centered teaching, community engagement, and regional research. Jobs at Northern State University attract educators and professionals seeking a collaborative environment in a welcoming Midwestern setting.
Careers here span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff, offering opportunities to contribute to a close-knit campus where faculty often mentor students directly. The university's commitment to affordability and accessibility makes it a hub for higher education jobs in the region. Whether you're interested in higher ed faculty jobs or administrative positions, NSU provides stable employment with a focus on professional growth.
NSU employs a variety of professionals to support its mission. Common roles include:
For a deeper dive into university job types, NSU listings often feature positions aligned with its strengths in teacher preparation and fine arts. Explore lecturer jobs or professor jobs tailored to regional needs.
Faculty positions at NSU typically require a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) in the relevant discipline for tenure-track roles. For example, a biology professor needs a PhD in biological sciences, while business faculty often hold a DBA or PhD in management. Master's degrees suffice for some lecturer or adjunct positions, especially in professional fields like education.
Administrative jobs may demand specific credentials, such as a master's in higher education administration for roles like academic advisor. All positions prioritize South Dakota teaching licensure where applicable, reflecting the university's emphasis on preparing educators for state schools.
NSU's research centers on applied projects benefiting South Dakota, including rural education, STEM outreach, and economic development. Expertise in grant writing for federal programs like NSF or USDA is valued, as faculty secure funding for initiatives like the NSU Sustainability Center. Preferred areas include teacher training innovations, music therapy, and data analytics in business.
Candidates with experience in community-engaged research thrive here, given Aberdeen's role as a regional hub. Publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences like those of the American Educational Research Association strengthen applications.
Employers at NSU seek candidates with 3-5 years of teaching experience, demonstrated by student evaluations above 4.0/5.0. Grant management, curriculum development, and online teaching proficiency (using platforms like Canvas) are key skills. Competencies include strong communication, adaptability to small-class environments, and collaboration with K-12 partners.
Technical skills in data analysis tools like SPSS or R benefit STEM roles.
Tenure-track: A faculty position leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, typically 5-7 years, involving research, teaching, and service.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, without benefits or tenure path.
Sabbatical: Paid leave for research or professional development, often every 7 years.
Board of Regents: Governing body overseeing South Dakota's public universities, including NSU.
To apply, visit the NSU careers portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com university jobs. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. The process includes screening, interviews (often virtual first), and campus visits with teaching demos.
Tip: Use free resume templates from AcademicJobs.com and reference how to write a winning academic CV for standout applications. Deadlines vary; assistant professor postings close 30-60 days after opening.
NSU fosters an inclusive campus through its Diversity Leadership Council, which organizes events like Cultural Awareness Week. The university recruits underrepresented faculty via targeted searches and offers the Native American Achievement Scholars program. In 2023, NSU increased diverse hires by 15% and provides bias training for search committees. Affinity groups support LGBTQ+ and first-generation employees, aligning with South Dakota's equity goals.
Aberdeen's low cost of living (20% below national average) and safe community enhance balance. NSU offers generous PTO (22 days/year), parental leave, and EAP counseling. Campus perks include a fitness center, free parking, and events like Wolves athletics games. Faculty enjoy a 12-15 credit teaching load with release time for research. The small size (faculty-student ratio 16:1) reduces bureaucracy, allowing focus on teaching and family. Outdoor activities near the James River provide recreation.
NSU combines Big Ten-level athletics with personalized academics, offering job security via state funding. Recent hires praise the supportive culture and impact on South Dakota education. Salaries competitive for region: $65,000 starting for assistants. Professional development includes travel funds up to $2,000/year.
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