Ursinus College, located in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, is a private liberal arts college founded in 1869 by the Reformed Church. A liberal arts college (a type of undergraduate institution focusing on broad intellectual development across humanities, sciences, and social sciences rather than specialized vocational training) serves approximately 1,440 students on its picturesque 170-acre campus, just 25 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Known for its close-knit community and emphasis on experiential learning, Ursinus offers a supportive environment for both students and employees. Jobs at Ursinus College span faculty, administrative, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about undergraduate education in the United States.
The college's motto, "Non Solus" (not alone), reflects its commitment to community and collaboration, making it an appealing destination for careers in higher education. With a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, faculty members enjoy meaningful interactions, fostering innovative teaching and research.
Established as a coeducational institution from its inception, Ursinus College has evolved from its German Reformed roots into a secular liberal arts powerhouse. Key milestones include the construction of the iconic Kaludis Chapel in 1965 and the launch of the Ursinus Summer Fellows program in 1996, which pairs students with faculty for research. In recent years, Ursinus has invested in facilities like the Berman Museum of Art and advanced science centers, enhancing opportunities for jobs in research and administration. This rich history shapes a dynamic workplace where employees contribute to a tradition of academic excellence.
Ursinus College excels in interdisciplinary programs, with standout departments in neuroscience, biochemistry and molecular biology, business and finance, education, and environmental science. The Common Intellectual Experience (CIE), a unique first-year seminar, underscores the college's focus on critical thinking. For those seeking professor jobs, opportunities abound in these areas, where faculty integrate teaching with research involving undergraduates.
Jobs at Ursinus College include tenure-track faculty positions, visiting professors, lecturers, research associates, administrative roles in admissions, advancement, and student affairs, as well as staff positions in IT, facilities, and athletics. Tenure-track roles emphasize teaching, scholarship, and service, while administrative jobs focus on supporting the college's mission. For a full breakdown, explore university job types. Recent openings have included assistant professors in biology and computer science, reflecting growth in high-demand fields.
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Most faculty jobs at Ursinus College require a PhD or terminal degree (the highest academic qualification in a field, like EdD for education) in the relevant discipline. For lecturer or adjunct professor jobs, a master's degree may suffice with substantial teaching experience. Administrative roles vary: deans often hold PhDs, while support staff need bachelor's degrees or equivalent experience. Research assistant jobs typically seek master's students or recent graduates with lab skills.
Ursinus prioritizes undergraduate research, so expertise in mentoring students is key. Popular research areas include neuroscience (studying brain function), environmental studies, and data science. Faculty are encouraged to secure external grants from NSF (National Science Foundation) or NEH (National Endowment for the Humanities). For research jobs, prior publications in peer-reviewed journals and experience with interdisciplinary projects are essential.
Preferred experience includes 2-5 years of college teaching, peer-reviewed publications, and grant funding. Skills like strong communication, curriculum development, and commitment to diversity are crucial. Competencies for success:
Check how to write a winning academic CV for tailoring your application.
To apply for jobs at Ursinus College, visit the official careers page or platforms like higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy statement, research agenda, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations.
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Ursinus College is committed to inclusive excellence through the Division of Student Equity and Inclusion, offering programs like the Ursinus Diversity Fellows and LGBTQ+ support groups. The college recruits diverse faculty via targeted searches and provides bias training. Recent initiatives include the Myrin Endowment for Faculty Diversity, funding positions for underrepresented scholars. This fosters a welcoming environment for all employees.
📊 Ursinus supports work-life balance with flexible schedules, 35-hour workweeks for staff, generous parental leave, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) for mental health. Campus life features beautiful gardens, fitness centers, cultural events, and proximity to Philadelphia for dining and entertainment. Employees enjoy tuition remission for family, intramural sports, and a vibrant community of 1,500 students and 200 faculty. The suburban Collegeville setting offers safety and nature trails, ideal for Pennsylvania-based careers.
Ursinus College offers rewarding jobs in a supportive liberal arts environment. Explore more higher ed jobs, get career guidance from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. With its focus on community and excellence, Ursinus is a top choice for academic professionals in Collegeville, Pennsylvania.
