Washburn University, located in Topeka, Kansas, is a public institution offering a range of career opportunities for academics, administrators, and support staff. With approximately 5,800 students, the university emphasizes teaching excellence, community engagement, and practical research. Jobs at Washburn University span faculty positions in its colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Health Professions, and the renowned School of Law, as well as administrative and staff roles. The university's commitment to student success and regional impact makes it an attractive employer for those seeking meaningful work in higher education.
Founded in 1865, Washburn has evolved into a comprehensive university known for its affordable education and strong programs in nursing, law, and allied health. Prospective employees can expect a collaborative environment where faculty often engage in undergraduate research and service learning. The campus spans 160 acres in the heart of Topeka, providing a vibrant setting for professional growth.
Washburn University traces its roots to the establishment of Lincoln College in 1865 by the Congregational Church to educate freed slaves and Union soldiers after the Civil War. Renamed in 1868 after Ichabod Washburn, a church deacon and industrialist, it became a four-year liberal arts college. In 1926, it transitioned to university status and joined the Kansas Board of Regents in 1991. This rich history influences its hiring, prioritizing candidates who value public service and accessibility.
Over the years, Washburn has hired faculty who contribute to its land-grant-like mission, focusing on practical skills. Notable expansions include the School of Law (1903) and the Mulvane Art Museum (1924), attracting experts in legal education and arts administration. Today, jobs at Washburn University reflect this tradition, with openings in emerging fields like cybersecurity and forensic accounting alongside traditional disciplines.
Washburn offers over 170 programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Key colleges hiring frequently include:
Research-active departments seek candidates with grants from agencies like the National Science Foundation. For example, the nursing program often hires for clinical research jobs due to its simulation labs and partnerships with local hospitals.
Jobs at Washburn University include tenure-track professor jobs, lecturer jobs, adjunct professor jobs, research assistant jobs, and higher-ed jobs/executive roles like deans. Administrative positions cover higher-ed jobs/admin, student affairs, and HR. Staff roles support facilities and IT. For a full list, visit university job types.
Tenure-track positions typically require a PhD and involve teaching, research, and service. Adjunct roles offer flexibility for part-time teaching. Postdoc opportunities arise in sciences, aligning with postdoctoral success tips.
To help understand key terms related to jobs at Washburn University:
For faculty jobs at Washburn University, a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., JD for law, DNP for nursing) in the relevant field is required. Research focus varies by department: sciences emphasize lab-based work, education prioritizes pedagogy research, and law seeks expertise in constitutional or trial advocacy.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications, grant funding (e.g., from NIH or NSF), and teaching diverse student populations. Skills and competencies encompass:
Candidates with community college jobs experience or clinical research jobs backgrounds excel in applied programs. Learn more via research assistant excellence or university lecturer guide.
The application process starts with monitoring the university's careers page and platforms like university jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy, research statement, and references.
Actionable tips:
Deadlines align with academic calendars; apply early for fall hires.
Washburn prioritizes diversity through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which runs programs like the Diversity Leadership Academy and MLK Living the Dream Awards. They partner with TRIO for underrepresented students and have affinity groups for LGBTQ+ and veterans. Hiring practices include bias training and targeted recruitment, exemplified by increasing women in STEM faculty by 20% since 2015.
Employees enjoy a supportive culture with flexible scheduling, parental leave, and EAP for mental health. Campus life features the Mulvane Art Museum, KTWU public TV, athletics (MIAA conference), and events like Homecoming. Topeka offers low-cost living ($1,000/month rent average), parks, and proximity to Kansas City (1 hour drive). Faculty perks include sabbaticals and professional development funds.
The 160-acre campus blends historic and modern buildings, with wellness centers and dining options promoting balance.
Topeka, state capital with 125,000 residents, provides affordable housing (median home $180K), excellent schools, and cultural attractions like the Brown v. Board National Historic Site. Commutes are short, and the university fosters community ties via service projects. Kansas weather varies, but low taxes appeal to professionals.
Jobs at Washburn University offer stability, impact, and growth in a welcoming Topeka environment. Explore higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. With strong benefits and focus on excellence, it's ideal for academics.
