Southwest Missouri State University, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a prominent public institution in the United States that has evolved into what is now known as Missouri State University since 2005. Established in 1905 as the Fourth District Normal School, it has grown into a comprehensive university serving over 23,000 students with a focus on public affairs missions, including teaching, research, and service. The campus spans 225 acres in a dynamic urban setting, offering jobs at Southwest Missouri State University across faculty, staff, and administrative roles that contribute to its reputation for student success and community engagement.
The university's commitment to excellence attracts professionals seeking meaningful careers in higher education. Whether you're interested in higher ed jobs like teaching or research, the institution provides opportunities in a supportive environment in Springfield, a city known for its affordability and cultural vibrancy.
Founded to train teachers for southwest Missouri, the university underwent several name changes reflecting its expansion: Southwest Missouri State College in 1945 and Southwest Missouri State University in 1973. The 2005 rebranding to Missouri State University symbolized its elevated status as a statewide institution. This rich history influences jobs at Southwest Missouri State University, with traditions of innovation in education and research persisting today. Key milestones include the establishment of graduate programs in the 1950s and research centers in the 1980s, creating diverse employment opportunities.
The university boasts over 150 undergraduate majors and 100 graduate programs across colleges like Arts and Letters, Business, Education, Health and Human Services, Humanities and Public Affairs, Natural and Applied Sciences, and Agriculture. Popular fields include nursing, accountancy, psychology, and computer science. Faculty jobs often align with these strengths, requiring expertise in areas like sustainable agriculture or digital media. Administrative positions support student services, athletics, and facilities, making the university a hub for university jobs in varied disciplines.
Jobs at Southwest Missouri State University encompass tenure-track professor positions, adjunct lecturer roles, research associates, postdoctoral fellows, and executive administration. Faculty openings emphasize teaching loads of 12-15 credit hours per semester, research grants, and service commitments. Staff roles include academic advising, IT support, and library services. For a full breakdown, explore university job types. Recent postings have included positions in cybersecurity and public health, reflecting regional needs in Missouri.
To understand jobs at Southwest Missouri State University, key terms include:
Faculty positions generally require a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., EdD for education roles, DMA for music) in the relevant field. Research focus varies by department: agriculture emphasizes crop science and animal husbandry; business prioritizes entrepreneurship and analytics. Preferred experience includes 3+ peer-reviewed publications, grant acquisition (e.g., $100,000+ awards), and teaching diverse student populations.
Essential skills and competencies:
Administrative roles may need a master's and 5+ years in higher ed, with competencies in leadership and budgeting. Check professor jobs or administration jobs for specifics.
The application process starts on the university's career portal, where you submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and references. Deadlines align with academic calendars; review the academic calendar for timing. Committees review holistically, prioritizing fit with department needs.
Actionable tips:
For research roles, emphasize publications; see how to write a winning academic CV.
Southwest Missouri State University prioritizes diversity through the Office of Equal Opportunity, Diversity Leadership Council, and programs like the Multicultural Leadership Institute. Specific examples include targeted recruitment for underrepresented faculty in STEM, affinity groups for LGBTQ+ staff, and annual Diversity Week events. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding regional averages. These efforts foster inclusive environments, supporting employer branding secrets for talent attraction.
Employees enjoy flexible scheduling, generous PTO (20+ days annually), and family leave policies. Campus life in Springfield features trails, arts venues like the Juanita K. Hammons Hall, and proximity to Branson entertainment. Wellness programs include gym access, counseling, and childcare subsidies. The university's emphasis on faculty development, like sabbaticals every 6 years, promotes balance. Surrounded by Ozark scenery, staff report high satisfaction, with low turnover rates compared to national averages.
Community engagement opportunities, such as volunteering with local nonprofits, enhance fulfillment. For remote options, explore remote higher ed jobs.
With competitive salaries (e.g., associate professors averaging $85,000), tuition remission for dependents, and growth potential, it's ideal for career advancement. The university's R2 research status opens federal funding doors. Springfield's low cost of living (20% below national average) amplifies benefits.
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