Sterling College, located in the small town of Sterling, Kansas, is a private Christian liberal arts college founded in 1887. Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), it serves around 650 undergraduate students with a focus on faith-integrated education. The campus spans 40 acres in a rural setting, emphasizing personal growth, community service, and hands-on learning. Known for its strong athletic programs in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), particularly in track and field, basketball, and equestrian studies, Sterling College prepares students for meaningful careers while nurturing spiritual development.
Jobs at Sterling College attract professionals passionate about higher education in a close-knit environment. Positions range from teaching faculty to administrative roles, coaching, and support staff, all aligned with the college's mission to "develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a biblical perspective of stewardship of self, community, and environment." The institution values candidates who can contribute to its vibrant campus culture.
Sterling College traces its roots to the late 19th century when it was established by the Presbyterian Church to provide education in the American West. Over the decades, it evolved from a seminary-focused institution to a comprehensive liberal arts college. Key milestones include its accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission in 1921 and the launch of distinctive programs like environmental studies in the 1970s, reflecting Kansas's agricultural heritage.
The mission statement underscores a commitment to Christ-centered education, making jobs at Sterling College ideal for those integrating faith and academics. Recent initiatives include expanding online offerings and sustainability efforts, creating opportunities in digital pedagogy and green initiatives.
Sterling College offers over 30 majors, with strengths in biology, business administration, education, equine science, and visual arts. Departments like Natural Sciences and Mathematics emphasize undergraduate research, while the Teacher Education program prepares future educators for Kansas schools.
Job seekers interested in faculty roles will find openings in these areas, often requiring expertise in interdisciplinary teaching. For example, the equine studies program, unique in Kansas, seeks instructors with practical ranching experience alongside academic credentials.
Career opportunities at Sterling College include tenure-track professor positions, adjunct lecturers, department chairs, athletic coaches, admissions counselors, and facilities staff. Administrative jobs cover areas like student affairs and financial aid. Coaching roles are prominent due to the college's 20+ varsity sports teams.
To learn more about university job types, including faculty, administrative, and executive roles, visit our dedicated guide. Many positions emphasize mentoring small classes, averaging 15 students.
Understanding key terms helps navigate jobs at Sterling College:
For faculty jobs at Sterling College, a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required, such as a Doctor of Education (EdD) for teaching roles or PhD in Biology for sciences. Master's degrees suffice for some adjunct positions.
Research focus aligns with undergraduate mentorship; preferred areas include environmental stewardship, equine health, and faith-based ethics. Candidates with publications in peer-reviewed journals or presentations at conferences like those of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education are favored.
Preferred experience includes 3+ years of college-level teaching, grant writing (e.g., from National Science Foundation analogs), and coaching certifications for athletic roles. Skills and competencies encompass strong communication, curriculum development, student advising, and proficiency in tools like Canvas learning management system. A commitment to diversity in faith contexts is essential.
To apply for jobs at Sterling College, visit their careers page, submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, three references, and a faith statement via Interfolio or email to HR. Deadlines vary; full-time searches often run fall-spring.
Actionable tips:
Follow up politely; small colleges value personal connections.
Sterling College fosters diversity through its "All of Us" initiative, promoting underrepresented voices in academics and athletics. Examples include scholarships for first-generation students, multicultural chapel series, and hiring practices compliant with Title IX. The office of Intercultural Engagement hosts events like Black History Month panels, ensuring faculty contribute to inclusive curricula. As a Christian institution, it balances faith with welcoming international students from 20+ countries.
Sterling College prioritizes work-life balance with a 4-day faculty workweek option, generous sabbaticals after six years, and family leave policies. Wellness includes gym access, counseling, and chaplain support. Salaries are competitive for small colleges, around $50,000-$70,000 for assistant professors, with low cost-of-living in Sterling, KS (median home $120,000).
Campus life buzzes with homecoming, chapel services thrice weekly, intramural sports, and proximity to Wichita (1 hour). Employees join mission trips, volunteer fairs, and equestrian events, building lifelong bonds in a safe, family-oriented town of 2,300. Rural charm offers stargazing, hiking at nearby Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, and community barbecues.
Joining Sterling means impacting lives in a purposeful setting. With low student-faculty ratio (12:1), faculty mentor deeply. Explore how to become a university lecturer or write a winning academic CV. For broader opportunities, check higher ed jobs, university jobs, or post your profile at recruitment.
In summary, jobs at Sterling College offer fulfillment in faith-driven education. Ready to apply? Visit higher ed career advice and post a job resources.
