Oklahoma Christian University (OC), located in Edmond, Oklahoma, is a private Christian liberal arts institution affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Established in 1950 as Central Christian College, it evolved into Oklahoma Christian College in 1959 and achieved university status in 1990. Nestled in the suburban community of Edmond just north of Oklahoma City, OC serves around 2,000 undergraduate students and a smaller graduate population across 70 majors. The university's mission centers on integrating faith, learning, and living, making it a distinctive employer in higher education. Jobs at Oklahoma Christian University attract professionals who value a faith-based environment, rigorous academics, and community impact.
The campus spans 200 acres with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art labs for engineering and health sciences, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. OC's emphasis on holistic development influences its employment culture, where roles contribute to spiritual, academic, and personal growth. Whether seeking faculty positions, administrative jobs, or support staff opportunities, candidates find a workplace committed to excellence and Christian principles.
Understanding the history of Oklahoma Christian University provides context for its job landscape. Founded by members of the Churches of Christ to provide higher education grounded in biblical truth, OC has grown significantly. Key milestones include the launch of its engineering program in 1966, which now ranks among the top in Oklahoma, and expansion into graduate programs like the Doctor of Physical Therapy in recent years. This evolution has created diverse job opportunities, from tenure-track professors to research coordinators.
OC's academic structure includes colleges of Biblical Studies, Business, Engineering and Physics, Humanities, Math and Science, and Professional Studies. Faculty jobs often involve teaching loads of 12-15 credit hours per semester, advising students, and participating in chapel services. The university's low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 fosters close mentorship, appealing to educators passionate about personalized instruction.
Jobs at Oklahoma Christian University span faculty, staff, and leadership roles. Faculty positions dominate, particularly in high-demand areas like nursing, computer science, and accountancy. Administrative jobs include roles in admissions, student services, and finance, while support positions cover facilities, IT, and library services. For a deeper dive into types of positions available, resources outline everything from lecturers to executives.
Many roles emphasize service to the Church of Christ community, with opportunities in missions and ministry support.
To clarify key terms related to jobs at Oklahoma Christian University:
Securing jobs at Oklahoma Christian University demands specific credentials. Required academic qualifications typically include a PhD in the relevant field for tenure-track faculty, a master's for lecturers, and bachelor's plus experience for staff. Research focus varies by department: engineering faculty prioritize grants from NSF (National Science Foundation) or industry partners, while biblical studies emphasize scriptural exegesis and apologetics.
Preferred experience encompasses publications in peer-reviewed journals, prior teaching at Christian institutions, and grant management. For instance, nursing faculty benefit from clinical hours and certifications like RN. Skills and competencies highlight:
Candidates with experience in accreditation processes (e.g., ABET for engineering) stand out.
The application process for jobs at Oklahoma Christian University begins on their careers portal at oc.edu/jobs. Submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, three references, and a statement of Christian faith (500-1000 words detailing beliefs and ministry involvement). Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and theological discussions.
Actionable tips:
Applications are reviewed year-round, with peaks in spring for fall hires.
Oklahoma Christian University actively pursues diversity within its faith framework. Initiatives include the Multicultural Student Union, scholarships for underrepresented minorities, and hiring committees trained in inclusive practices. OC participates in the CCCU (Council for Christian Colleges & Universities) diversity efforts, hosting workshops on cultural competency. Examples: Annual Diversity Symposium featuring speakers on racial reconciliation and partnerships with urban ministries in Oklahoma City. While prioritizing Church of Christ alignment, OC welcomes applicants from varied ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds who affirm its doctrinal statement.
Work-life balance at OC is supported by a family-oriented culture in Edmond, OK. Employees enjoy flexible hours, especially post-COVID hybrid options for admin roles, generous PTO (up to 25 days annually), and sabbath observance encouragement. Campus life buzzes with events: weekly chapel, Eagles athletic games (NAIA Division I), family picnics, and wellness centers offering gym access and counseling.
Proximity to Oklahoma City's amenities—museums, parks, and dining—enhances off-campus life. Faculty often praise the supportive community, low crime rate in Edmond, and tuition discounts for children (up to full remission). Professional development includes conferences and sabbaticals every seven years.
OC offers competitive benefits: comprehensive health plans, 403(b) matching up to 10%, life insurance, and disability coverage. Tuition remission covers 100% for dependents at OC or partner schools. Growth opportunities abound via faculty senate, research stipends ($5,000 average), and leadership tracks. Explore higher ed career advice for advancement tips.
Salaries align regionally: assistant professors around $65,000-$80,000, per CUPA-HR data, with cost-of-living adjustments for Oklahoma.
Monitor oc.edu/careers and platforms like higher ed jobs listings. AcademicJobs.com aggregates openings, aiding your search alongside professor jobs and research jobs.
In summary, jobs at Oklahoma Christian University blend academic rigor with spiritual purpose. Ready to join? Check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
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