Norfolk State University (NSU), located in Norfolk, Virginia, stands as a beacon for higher education careers, particularly for those passionate about serving diverse student populations. As a historically black university (HBCU) and part of the Virginia Manual Labor Colleges System, NSU offers a variety of jobs ranging from faculty positions to administrative roles and research opportunities. With its urban campus nestled in the heart of Hampton Roads, professionals find a dynamic environment where they can contribute to innovative programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), alongside liberal arts and professional studies.
Careers at NSU are not just jobs; they are missions to empower underrepresented students. The university employs over 500 faculty and staff, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and community impact. Whether you're eyeing faculty jobs or support roles, NSU emphasizes excellence, equity, and engagement.
Founded in 1935 as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University, NSU gained independence in 1969, evolving into a comprehensive public institution. Its motto, "To Our Every Purpose the Best," reflects a commitment to quality education that permeates all job roles. Today, with approximately 6,000 students, NSU's history as Virginia's only public urban HBCU shapes its hiring, prioritizing candidates who understand cultural competence and student success in diverse settings.
This legacy influences jobs at Norfolk State University by creating opportunities in programs like the acclaimed optics doctorate program, one of the few nationally, and mass communications with a NABJ chapter. Historical resilience, from navigating segregation to modern accreditation achievements, means employees join a storied institution ready for forward-thinking professionals.
NSU's five colleges—Liberal Arts, Science, Business, Education, and Engineering & Technology—host jobs across disciplines. The College of Science, Engineering, and Technology leads with bachelor's through PhD programs in optical sciences, attracting research jobs funded by federal grants. Nursing and health professions roles emphasize clinical training, while business offers management positions tied to real-world consulting.
Mass communications jobs involve hands-on media production, and education roles focus on teacher preparation for urban schools. For a deeper dive into university job types, these align with standard higher ed categories but with NSU's unique HBCU lens.
To fully grasp jobs at Norfolk State University, understanding terminology is essential:
Entry into faculty jobs at Norfolk State University demands rigorous credentials. A PhD or equivalent terminal degree (e.g., Doctor of Nursing Practice for nursing) in the relevant field is standard for tenure-track roles. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or instructors, but doctoral holders dominate senior positions.
For research-focused jobs, qualifications include postdoctoral experience. Administrative roles like dean require advanced degrees plus leadership in higher ed. NSU values accreditation-aligned quals, such as ABET for engineering faculty.
NSU prioritizes research addressing societal challenges, especially for underserved communities. Key areas include:
Expertise in interdisciplinary work, like AI in optics, is prized. Faculty often secure NSF grants, averaging $500K+ annually for projects.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years teaching at minority-serving institutions, peer-reviewed publications (5+ for assistant prof), and grant management. Skills encompass:
Explore how to write a winning academic CV to highlight these.
Applying for jobs at Norfolk State University starts on the NSU HR careers page. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter addressing HBCU fit, transcripts, and references. Process includes screening, interviews (teaching demo), and committee review, spanning 2-4 months.
Actionable tips:
Background checks and references are standard.
NSU's commitment shines through the Title III program strengthening minority institutions, faculty diversity hires (40% increase in STEM women of color), and the Multicultural Student Center supporting employee-led affinity groups. Initiatives include bias training, equitable pay audits, and partnerships with NSBE for Black engineers. As an HBCU, inclusion is core, with policies mirroring employer branding secrets.
NSU promotes balance with 4/10 workweeks for staff, faculty sabbaticals every 6 years, and EAP for mental health. Campus life buzzes with events like Homecoming, L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center shows, and proximity to naval bases for collaborations. Norfolk's revitalized waterfront offers biking trails, beaches 20 minutes away, and a cost of living 10% below national average. Wellness includes free gym, yoga, and childcare subsidies, fostering a family-friendly vibe.
NSU jobs offer impact, growth, and community. Competitive salaries (e.g., $80K median faculty), benefits like TIAA retirement, and tuition remission for dependents seal the deal. In Virginia's thriving higher ed scene, NSU positions you for leadership.
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