The University of Pikeville, formerly known as Pikeville College, offers a range of employment opportunities in higher education, particularly suited for those interested in working in a small, private liberal arts institution in Pikeville, Kentucky. Located on a picturesque hillside campus overlooking downtown Pikeville, this university emphasizes its role as the leading institution in central Appalachia. Jobs here span faculty positions, administrative roles, athletic staff, and support positions, all contributing to its mission of providing quality education with a focus on health professions and community impact.
Careers at the University of Pikeville attract professionals passionate about teaching, research, and service in a supportive environment. Whether you're seeking faculty jobs or administrative openings, the university's commitment to equal opportunity makes it an inclusive employer. Current listings on their official portal include full-time roles like Assistant Athletic Trainer and Office Assistant in the Registrar's Office, highlighting needs in athletics and student services.
Pikeville College was established in 1889 as a Presbyterian school and evolved over decades into a comprehensive university. In 2011, it officially became the University of Pikeville (UPIKE), marking a pivotal expansion in its academic offerings and infrastructure. This transition reflected its growing emphasis on professional programs, especially in healthcare, aligning with regional needs in Appalachia.
The university's history is intertwined with the Pikeville community, fostering economic development through education. Today, it serves over 2,000 students with a focus on accessibility and success, which influences its hiring practices to support innovative teaching and regional outreach. Understanding this background helps job seekers appreciate the institution's values when applying for positions.
UPIKE offers majors in health professions such as nursing, osteopathic medicine via its Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM), and liberal arts disciplines. These programs create demand for specialized faculty and staff. For instance, the medical school, one of the few in rural America, requires experts in biomedical sciences and clinical education.
Other areas like business, education, and sciences also generate roles in teaching and research support. Job seekers with expertise in these fields will find alignment with the university's strategic goals, including expanding graduate programs and community health initiatives.
Employment at the University of Pikeville includes tenure-track faculty, adjunct professors, administrative staff, and specialized roles in athletics and operations. Faculty positions often involve teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, while staff roles support student services and campus facilities.
For a deeper dive into various university job types, including lecturer and professor roles, resources are available to guide your search.
Faculty positions typically require a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field, such as Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine for clinical roles. Research focus often emphasizes rural health, Appalachian studies, or interdisciplinary liberal arts, with preferences for publications in peer-reviewed journals and grant experience from sources like the National Institutes of Health.
Preferred experience includes prior teaching at small universities, mentorship of undergraduate researchers, and community engagement. Essential skills encompass strong communication, curriculum development, and proficiency in tools like learning management systems. Staff roles prioritize bachelor's degrees, organizational skills, and familiarity with higher education regulations.
The application process begins at the official Jobs @ UPIKE portal (jobs.upike.edu), where candidates create an account, upload resumes, cover letters, and transcripts. Most positions require online submission, with references requested later.
Actionable tips: Customize your materials to highlight Appalachian ties or health professions expertise. Use a strong academic CV format emphasizing teaching philosophy. Network via university events or LinkedIn. Follow up politely after two weeks. Prepare for interviews focusing on mission alignment and rural education challenges. Review free resume templates for higher ed.
The University of Pikeville upholds a robust Equal Employment Opportunity policy, prohibiting discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, and more. Initiatives include recruitment from underrepresented groups, diversity training for staff, and support for first-generation faculty.
Specific examples: Partnerships with Appalachian communities to hire local talent, inclusive hiring committees, and programs promoting women and minorities in STEM and health fields. This fosters a welcoming environment reflective of its student body's diversity.
In Pikeville, Kentucky, UPIKE promotes work-life balance through flexible scheduling where possible, employee wellness programs, and proximity to outdoor recreation in the Appalachian Mountains. Campus life features a tight-knit community with events, cultural arts, and tourism opportunities nearby.
Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development. The small size (under 3,000 employees/students) allows personal connections, reducing burnout. Faculty enjoy research support and sabbaticals, while staff benefit from tuition remission for family. Living in Pikeville offers low cost of living, family-friendly vibes, and economic growth via university initiatives.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review periods, involving teaching, research, and service.
Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, without benefits or tenure path.
Osteopathic medicine: A branch of medicine emphasizing holistic care, musculoskeletal health, and DO degrees.
Liberal arts university: Institution focusing on broad undergraduate education in humanities, sciences, and arts.
Appalachia: Cultural region in eastern U.S., including Kentucky, known for mountains and unique socioeconomic challenges.
Joining UPIKE means contributing to transformative education in central Appalachia. With growing programs in high-demand fields, competitive benefits, and a vibrant campus, it's ideal for career growth. Explore broader higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job via AcademicJobs.com for more opportunities.
