The University of Rio Grande (URG), located in the small town of Rio Grande, Ohio, stands out as one of the few remaining work colleges in the United States. Founded in 1876 by Rio Grande College and the Ohio Christian Missionary Convention, it has a rich history of combining rigorous academics with mandatory student employment. This unique model shapes not only student life but also the professional environment for jobs at University of Rio Grande, where faculty and staff play a pivotal role in mentoring students who work 20 hours per week on campus. Nestled in rural Appalachia, URG offers a supportive community for those seeking meaningful careers in higher education.
Jobs at University of Rio Grande span faculty positions, administrative roles, and support staff opportunities. The institution emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, making it ideal for educators passionate about experiential education. With approximately 1,600 undergraduate students, class sizes are small, allowing for personalized teaching and strong student relationships. The university's partnership with Rio Grande Community College provides dual enrollment options, expanding the scope of educational roles available.
Established as a beacon of accessible higher education, University of Rio Grande has evolved from its Presbyterian roots into a private institution known for affordability and student success. Its work college program, one of only 11 in the nation, requires students to contribute to campus operations, fostering responsibility and reducing tuition costs. This history influences jobs at University of Rio Grande, where employees often supervise student workers, integrating real-world experience into academic roles. Over the years, URG has grown to offer over 100 programs, from associate to bachelor's degrees, with strengths in teacher education, nursing, and business administration.
The mission centers on holistic development, preparing graduates for careers through liberal arts, professional studies, and community engagement. Faculty jobs at University of Rio Grande involve not just lecturing but also guiding students in practical applications, reflecting the institution's commitment to 'learning by doing' since its founding.
Careers at URG include tenure-track faculty, adjunct professors, department chairs, librarians, and administrative positions like admissions counselors and financial aid directors. For a full overview, visit university job types. Common openings are in education, where URG's teacher preparation program is renowned, and health sciences, given the local demand in Ohio's rural areas.
These roles align with URG's focus on undergraduate teaching, with limited research expectations compared to larger research universities.
Work College: A higher education institution where students must work on campus as part of their financial aid package, typically 20 hours per week, to build skills and offset costs. URG pioneered this in Ohio.
Tenure-Track Faculty: Positions leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, involving teaching, service, and scholarship.
Adjunct Professor: Part-time instructors hired per course, often without benefits, common in higher ed for flexibility.
For faculty jobs at University of Rio Grande, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) is standard for tenure-track roles, while master's degrees qualify for adjunct or lecturer positions. In fields like nursing, licensure (e.g., RN) is essential.
Research focus at URG emphasizes applied projects in Appalachian culture, environmental sustainability, and education reform, often involving student collaboration. Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of teaching, peer-reviewed publications, and grant experience from sources like the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
Key skills and competencies:
Candidates with experience in community colleges or rural education excel here. Learn more about becoming a university lecturer.
To apply for jobs at University of Rio Grande, visit the careers page on their official site or platforms like higher ed jobs. Submit a letter of application highlighting your fit with the work college model, current CV, transcripts, three references, and a teaching philosophy statement.
Actionable tips:
Applications are reviewed year-round, with priority for fall hires.
University of Rio Grande actively promotes diversity through its Affirmative Action policy, Equal Opportunity Employer status, and initiatives like the Diversity Council. Specific examples include scholarships for underrepresented students, cultural competency training for staff, and partnerships with organizations supporting first-generation college attendees. In 2023, URG hosted DEI workshops and expanded recruitment to diverse candidate pools, reflecting Ohio's demographic shifts. Faculty jobs at University of Rio Grande encourage applications from minorities and women.
Work-life balance at URG benefits from its small size and rural setting, offering flexible schedules, generous PTO, and family-friendly policies. Employees enjoy wellness programs, including gym access and mental health support. Campus life is lively with events like Pioneers athletics, cultural festivals, and community service days. Living in Rio Grande provides a peaceful environment near the Bob Evans Farm and Hocking Hills trails, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Staff often participate in student work supervision, blending professional and communal roles seamlessly.
URG offers competitive salaries, tuition remission for dependents, and retirement plans. Its location in Ohio provides low cost of living and proximity to cities like Columbus. For career advice, check higher ed career advice or explore university jobs. Institutions like URG value long-term commitment, with many faculty staying for decades.
In summary, jobs at University of Rio Grande provide a unique opportunity to contribute to a transformative educational model. Interested in posting openings? Visit post a job on AcademicJobs.com, alongside higher ed jobs.
