National Louis University (NLU), located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, is a dynamic institution dedicated to transforming lives through education. Founded with a mission to prepare educators and professionals, NLU offers a range of jobs that appeal to those passionate about higher education. From faculty positions to administrative roles, opportunities at NLU allow professionals to contribute to innovative teaching and community impact in the United States. The university's emphasis on adult learners and online programs makes it a leader in accessible higher education.
Jobs at National Louis University span teaching, research, and support services. Faculty roles involve delivering courses in education, business administration, and psychology, while staff positions support student success and operations. With its Chicago base, NLU jobs attract candidates interested in urban education challenges and opportunities.
Established in 1886 by Elizabeth Harrison as the first school for training kindergarten teachers in the U.S., National Louis University has evolved into a comprehensive university. It merged with National College of Education and Louis Institute, adopting its current name in 1991. Today, NLU serves over 6,000 students across campuses in Chicago, Wheeling, and Tampa, with a strong focus on teacher preparation and professional development. This rich history informs its job culture, prioritizing practical, impactful work in education.
The university's growth reflects Chicago's diverse educational needs, making jobs here ideal for those committed to social justice and innovative pedagogy.
NLU's colleges include the College of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Business and Technology. Popular programs include undergraduate and graduate degrees in early childhood education, curriculum and instruction, school leadership, and organizational leadership. Jobs often align with these areas, such as lecturers in teacher education or researchers in educational psychology.
The university's National College of Education is renowned for licensure programs, creating demand for experienced educators. Business programs seek faculty with real-world experience, while psychology roles focus on counseling and human development.
Common job categories include full-time tenure-track faculty, adjunct instructors, research associates, deans, and support staff like admissions counselors and IT specialists. For a full list of university job types, visit our guide. NLU frequently posts openings for assistant professors in education, program directors, and remote adjunct roles.
Most faculty jobs at National Louis University require a doctoral degree, such as a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or EdD (Doctor of Education) in the relevant field. For example, education faculty need expertise in curriculum design or special education. Master's degrees suffice for some staff roles, like academic advisors, but PhDs are standard for professors. Terminal degrees ensure candidates can contribute to accreditation standards from bodies like the Higher Learning Commission.
NLU prioritizes research in teacher preparation, urban school reform, and social-emotional learning. Expertise in data-driven instruction or diverse learner strategies is valued. Faculty often secure grants from the Illinois Board of Higher Education or federal sources. Publications in journals like the Journal of Teacher Education enhance applications.
Candidates with 3-5 years of teaching experience, K-12 or higher ed, stand out. Publications, conference presentations, and grant funding are preferred. Experience with online teaching or adult learners is key, given NLU's programs. For lecturer roles, prior adjunct work is beneficial; check lecturer jobs.
Essential skills include cultural competence for Chicago's diverse population, proficiency in learning management systems like Canvas, strong interpersonal abilities, and data analysis for assessment. Competencies in inclusive teaching and leadership align with NLU's values.
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Teaching Pedagogy | Designing engaging courses for adult learners. |
| Research Methods | Qualitative and quantitative analysis in education. |
| Communication | Collaborating with diverse stakeholders. |
Apply through NLU's online portal at nl.edu/careers. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and teaching philosophy. Tips: Customize for NLU's mission, highlight Chicago experience, and network via LinkedIn. Use our free cover letter template. Interviews may include teaching demos. Follow up politely.
NLU's Center for Social Justice promotes equity through faculty training, affinity groups, and partnerships with Chicago Public Schools for diverse recruitment. They offer the Harold Washington Fellowships for underrepresented scholars and celebrate events like Black History Month with campus programming. These initiatives create an inclusive environment for jobs.
In Chicago, NLU's main campus offers a supportive atmosphere with flexible hours, tuition remission for employees, and wellness centers. Remote options abound, and suburban campuses provide quieter settings. Campus life includes professional development workshops, cultural outings to Chicago's museums, and community service. Employees enjoy 25+ vacation days and mental health resources, fostering balance amid urban energy.
Jobs at National Louis University offer meaningful impact in education. Explore higher ed jobs, career advice via higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening at post a job. With its legacy and Chicago location, NLU is ideal for dedicated professionals.
Related reading: Learn employer branding secrets or how to become a university lecturer.
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