Working at PPU, your next career step!

Overview of Point Park University

Point Park University (PPU), nestled in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, stands as a dynamic private institution renowned for its urban campus and focus on career-oriented education. Established to meet the needs of a changing workforce, PPU offers a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, particularly excelling in performing and visual arts, communication, business, and education. With around 3,500 students, the university fosters a close-knit community where faculty and staff play pivotal roles in shaping future professionals. Jobs at Point Park University attract educators and administrators passionate about hands-on learning in one of America's most livable cities.

The university's location in Pittsburgh provides unique advantages for employment, from collaborations with local arts organizations to contributions in the region's tech and healthcare sectors. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions or administrative roles, opportunities here emphasize innovation and community impact.

History of Point Park University

Founded in 1960 as Point Park Junior College, the institution evolved into a four-year university by 1967, reflecting Pittsburgh's post-industrial renaissance. Key milestones include the 1980s expansion of conservatory programs and the 2010s launch of doctoral offerings in educational leadership and criminal justice. This growth has sustained a demand for dedicated faculty and staff, with jobs at Point Park University mirroring the city's shift toward creative economies and higher education hubs.

Throughout its history, PPU has prioritized experiential learning, leading to roles that integrate real-world projects. For instance, faculty in cinema arts often partner with Pittsburgh's film industry, enhancing job satisfaction through tangible impacts.

Academic Programs and Key Departments

Point Park University boasts over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across six schools: Arts and Sciences, Business, Communication, Community Engagement and Service, Conservatory of Performing Arts, and Education. Standouts include the renowned Conservatory of Dance, ranked among the top in the U.S., and programs in sports management and behavioral neuroscience.

These departments drive job opportunities, from tenure-track professors in theater to lecturers in cybersecurity. The interdisciplinary approach means roles often span multiple areas, appealing to versatile academics.

Types of Jobs Available at Point Park University

Jobs at Point Park University encompass faculty, staff, and executive positions tailored to its mission. Common roles include:

• Full-time professors and associate professors in fields like dance and media arts.
• Adjunct instructors for flexible teaching in evening programs.
• Administrative staff in admissions, student success, and facilities.
• Research associates in applied social sciences.

For a deeper dive into university job types, including lecturer jobs and professor jobs, review available categories. Pittsburgh's cultural vibrancy amplifies demand for specialized roles in performing arts.

Definitions

To clarify key terms related to jobs at Point Park University:

• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, typically requiring research and service contributions.
• Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, ideal for professionals balancing teaching with industry work.
• Conservatory model: Intensive, performance-based training akin to professional companies, central to PPU's arts programs.
• Terminal degree: The highest academic qualification in a field, like a PhD or MFA, often mandatory for faculty hires.

Required Academic Qualifications

📚 For faculty jobs at Point Park University, a doctoral degree or equivalent terminal degree is standard. Examples include:

• PhD in Communication for media roles.
• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) for conservatory faculty.
• Master's with significant experience for some lecturer positions.

Administrative roles may require a master's in higher education administration or related fields, plus certifications like in human resources.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

Point Park emphasizes applied research aligned with Pittsburgh's economy. Key areas include:

• Community-engaged scholarship in urban education and arts.
• Creative production in film and digital media.
• Analytics in sports management and business intelligence.

Candidates with grants from bodies like the National Endowment for the Arts or publications in peer-reviewed journals stand out.

Preferred Experience

Employers seek:

• 3-5 years of college-level teaching.
• Peer-reviewed publications or creative portfolios.
• Grant-writing success or industry collaborations.
• Experience with diverse student populations, reflecting PPU's inclusive ethos.

Prior work in urban settings, like Pittsburgh's nonprofit sector, is a plus.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills for success in jobs at Point Park University include:

• Strong pedagogical methods, especially experiential learning.
• Digital literacy for hybrid courses.
• Interpersonal skills for mentoring in a conservatory environment.
• Data-driven decision-making for admin roles.

Adaptability to Pittsburgh's seasonal weather and vibrant nightlife enhances campus integration.

Application Process and Tips

📋 To apply for jobs at Point Park University:

1. Visit the university's careers page or higher ed jobs listings.
2. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter emphasizing arts passion, teaching philosophy statement, and references.
3. Prepare for virtual or on-campus interviews, including teaching demonstrations.
4. Follow up with a thank-you note highlighting fit with PPU's urban mission.

Tip: Use free resume templates and reference how to write a winning academic CV for standout applications. Network at Pittsburgh arts events for insider edges.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

🌟 Point Park University champions diversity through the Center for Inclusion and Diversity, offering:

• Biannual Equity and Inclusion training for staff.
• Affinity groups like the Black Faculty and Staff Association.
• Recruitment partnerships with HBCUs and women's colleges.
• Events such as Pride Week and Latinx Heritage Month celebrations.

These efforts create equitable workplaces, with metrics showing increased underrepresented faculty hires since 2015.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Point Park's downtown Pittsburgh location blends professional rigor with lifestyle perks. Employees benefit from:

• Flexible work policies post-pandemic.
• Wellness centers and EAP (Employee Assistance Programs).
• Campus events like theater productions and Pioneer basketball games.
• Proximity to riverside trails, museums, and dining, ideal for balancing teaching loads.

With tuition discounts for dependents, staff report high satisfaction in this energetic urban setting. Learn more via employer branding secrets.

Why Pursue Jobs at Point Park University?

In summary, jobs at Point Park University offer a gateway to impactful careers in higher education amid Pittsburgh's revival. From conservatory faculty shaping stars to administrators driving innovation, roles here promise growth. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect. For lecturer aspirations, see become a university lecturer. Start your journey today.