Friends University, located in Wichita, Kansas, is a private Christian liberal arts institution founded in 1898 by members of the Society of Friends (Quakers). Nestled in the heart of the Air Capital of the World, this university has grown into a vibrant community of about 2,000 students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Known for its commitment to faith-based education, small class sizes averaging 15 students, and emphasis on holistic development, Friends University attracts professionals who value integrating spiritual values with academic excellence.
Jobs at Friends University span faculty, administrative, and support roles across colleges like Business, Education and Fine Arts, Health Sciences, Science and Natural Health, and Religion. Whether you're seeking tenure-track professor jobs, adjunct instructor positions, or administrative opportunities in student affairs, the university offers a supportive environment where employees contribute to shaping future leaders. The institution's Quaker heritage promotes peace, integrity, and community service, influencing its workplace culture.
In recent years, Friends University has expanded programs in nursing, cybersecurity, and business analytics to meet regional demands in Kansas. This growth creates diverse job openings, particularly in STEM and health fields. Salaries are competitive for a private institution, with assistant professors typically earning $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on discipline and experience. Living in Wichita provides affordability, with housing costs 20% below national averages, enhancing appeal for families.
The university employs around 200 faculty and staff, offering roles like full-time professors, part-time lecturers, department chairs, and support staff in admissions, IT, and facilities. Faculty positions often include tenure-track roles requiring teaching, research, and service. Adjunct professor jobs provide flexibility for those balancing multiple commitments.
Administrative jobs cover areas like human resources, financial aid, and career services. Specialized positions include research assistant jobs in health sciences labs or clinical research jobs tied to partnerships with local hospitals. For a deeper dive into university job types, including lecturer jobs and professor jobs, AcademicJobs.com offers comprehensive guides.
Current openings frequently appear on the university's careers page, emphasizing candidates aligned with its Christian mission statement.
To help understand key terms in higher education jobs at Friends University:
For faculty jobs, a PhD or equivalent terminal degree (e.g., EdD for education roles, DMA for music) is standard for tenure-track positions. Master's degrees qualify adjuncts or lecturers. Administrative roles like academic advisors require bachelor's plus experience; executive positions demand advanced degrees and leadership history.
In religion or ministry programs, seminary degrees (MDiv) paired with practical experience are essential. Health sciences roles prefer certifications like RN or certifications in athletic training. The university prioritizes candidates demonstrating Christian faith commitment through personal statements.
Research at Friends University emphasizes applied projects benefiting the Wichita community. Expertise in education technology, sustainable business practices, or mental health counseling aligns with programs. Faculty in sciences focus on undergraduate research in biology or chemistry, often collaborating with Boeing or Koch Industries locally.
Grant-funded work through sources like the Kansas Department of Education supports initiatives in teacher preparation. Publications in journals like Journal of Quaker Studies or regional conferences are valued.
Candidates with 3+ years teaching undergraduates, peer-reviewed publications (2-5 for assistant professors), and grant experience stand out. Prior work at faith-based colleges or community engagement in Kansas enhances applications. For staff, 5+ years in higher ed administration is preferred.
Key skills include strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and tech proficiency (e.g., Canvas LMS). Competencies like collaborative teamwork, innovative pedagogy, and commitment to student mentorship are crucial. Soft skills such as empathy and ethical decision-making reflect Quaker values.
Monitor the Friends University HR site and platforms like higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a cover letter addressing faith alignment, CV, transcripts, and 3 references. Interviews involve teaching demos and mission fit discussions.
Tips: Customize applications highlighting Wichita ties; use how to write a winning academic CV. Network at conferences like Kansas Association of Colleges. Follow up politely; apply early as rolling basis common. Prepare for questions on integrating faith in teaching. Leverage free cover letter templates for polish.
Friends University fosters inclusion via the Multicultural Student Union, annual diversity conferences, and recruitment targeting underrepresented groups. The Office of Intercultural Programs offers training on equity. As a Christian university, it balances faith with welcoming LGBTQ+ allies through dialogues. Recent hires reflect 25% faculty of color growth since 2015. Partnerships with Wichita's Hispanic and African American communities support outreach.
With a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, workloads allow mentoring without burnout. Flexible schedules, summer breaks, and wellness perks like gym access promote balance. Campus life includes chapel services, athletic events, and family-friendly activities. Wichita offers aviation museums, arts districts, and low-cost living (median home $180K). Employees enjoy tuition remission for dependents, enhancing retention.
Community events like Falcon Fest build camaraderie. Proximity to rivers and parks supports outdoor pursuits, ideal for active lifestyles.
Joining Friends means impacting lives in a values-driven setting. Alumni praise the supportive culture; 90% faculty recommend it. Growth opportunities abound in expanding programs. For career advice, visit higher ed career advice or employer branding secrets.
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