Working at SNU, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Jobs at Southern Nazarene University

Southern Nazarene University (SNU), located in Bethany, Oklahoma, stands as a beacon for those seeking meaningful careers in higher education within a faith-based environment. As a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, SNU offers a variety of jobs that blend academic rigor with spiritual growth. From faculty positions teaching future leaders to administrative roles supporting campus operations, opportunities at SNU attract professionals passionate about education and service. Nestled in the heart of the United States, just west of Oklahoma City, SNU's campus provides a supportive setting for career advancement in fields like business, nursing, education, and ministry.

Jobs at Southern Nazarene University are more than employment; they are vocations that contribute to shaping lives through Christ-centered education. The university employs around 300 full-time staff and faculty, serving over 2,000 students. Whether you're eyeing professor jobs or support roles, SNU emphasizes community, integrity, and excellence.

History of Southern Nazarene University

Founded in 1899 as Texas Holiness University in Peniel, Texas, SNU has a rich history rooted in the Holiness movement. It relocated to Bethany, Oklahoma, in 1920 and became Southern Nazarene University in 1984. This evolution reflects its commitment to Wesleyan-Holiness theology, growing from a small Bible college to a comprehensive university offering 95+ undergraduate programs and 13 graduate degrees. Understanding this history is key for job seekers, as SNU hires individuals who align with its mission to develop whole people—mind, body, and spirit.

The university's journey includes milestones like launching its first graduate program in 1968 and expanding athletics to NCAA Division II in 2012. Today, SNU's hiring practices continue this legacy, prioritizing candidates who can contribute to its tradition of holistic education in Bethany's welcoming community.

Academic Programs and Key Hiring Areas

SNU's academic offerings span colleges of Professional and Graduate Studies, Liberal Arts, and Science and Health Professions. Popular programs include Adult Studies in business administration, nursing (BSN and MSN), and organizational leadership. Traditional undergraduate majors cover biology, psychology, music, and teacher education.

Hiring often focuses on these areas:

• Business and Management: Roles in accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship.
• Nursing and Health Sciences: Faculty for clinical and classroom instruction.
• Education: Preparing future K-12 teachers with practical training.
• Ministry and Religion: Positions emphasizing biblical studies and pastoral training.
• Sciences: Biology, chemistry, and exercise science labs needing researchers.

Types of Jobs at Southern Nazarene University

Diverse roles abound at SNU. Faculty positions range from full-time professors to part-time adjuncts. Administrative jobs include deans, directors, and HR specialists. Staff opportunities cover admissions, athletics, and facilities. For a deeper dive into university job types, including tenure-track versus non-tenure, visit dedicated resources.

Recent openings have included Assistant Professor of Nursing, Director of Student Success, and Research Coordinator in Biology, reflecting SNU's growth in health professions and student support.

Definitions

To aid understanding, here are key terms related to jobs at SNU:

• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, typically requiring research, teaching, and service.
• Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor hired per course, often with professional experience rather than a PhD.
• Wesleyan-Holiness tradition: SNU's theological foundation emphasizing sanctification and holy living, influencing hiring criteria.
• Terminal degree: Highest qualification in a field, like PhD for arts/sciences or DMA for music.

Required Academic Qualifications

For faculty jobs at Southern Nazarene University, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) is standard for tenure-track roles. Nursing positions require MSN minimum, with DNP preferred. Administrative jobs seek master's degrees plus experience. All candidates must demonstrate compatibility with SNU's Christian ethos, often via a statement of faith.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

SNU values applied research integrating faith and academics. Expertise in grant-funded projects, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and interdisciplinary work is prized. Examples include studies on ethical leadership in business or community health in nursing, aligning with Oklahoma's needs.

Preferred Experience

Preferred candidates bring 3-5 years teaching, publications (e.g., 5+ articles), grant experience, and service leadership. For staff, prior higher ed or nonprofit work is ideal. SNU favors those with missions experience or youth ministry backgrounds.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include:

• Strong communication for classroom and committee work.
• Adaptability to hybrid teaching models.
• Leadership in student mentoring.
• Tech proficiency (e.g., Canvas LMS).
• Cultural sensitivity in diverse classrooms.

📋 Application Process and Tips

To apply for jobs at SNU, visit their careers page or search on higher ed jobs platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, and faith statement. Interviews involve teaching demos and mission fit discussions.

Actionable tips:

• Tailor your CV to highlight faith integration—see how to write a winning academic CV.
• Network at SNU events or Nazarene conferences.
• Prepare for questions on Wesleyan theology.
• Follow up promptly; emphasize Bethany's community appeal.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

SNU fosters inclusion via the Office of Intercultural Learning, hosting events like Diversity Week and supporting affinity groups. Hiring prioritizes underrepresented voices while maintaining doctrinal standards. Examples include scholarships for minority students and faculty development for cultural competency, creating a welcoming environment in Oklahoma.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

In Bethany, Oklahoma, SNU's 44-acre campus offers serene green spaces, modern facilities, and a family atmosphere. Employees enjoy flexible hours, sabbaticals, wellness centers, and chapels for reflection. Proximity to Oklahoma City provides urban access without big-city stress. Campus life includes athletic events, concerts, and faith community gatherings, promoting balance amid professional demands.

Why Pursue Jobs at SNU?

SNU offers competitive salaries (professors ~$70K-$100K), tuition benefits, retirement matching, and spiritual fulfillment. As a higher ed faculty hub, it supports growth through conferences and mentorship.

Summary

Jobs at Southern Nazarene University blend academic excellence with faith in Bethany, Oklahoma. Explore higher ed jobs, gain insights from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. For branding tips, check employer branding secrets. SNU awaits those called to educate with purpose.