Pepperdine University, nestled on a breathtaking cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California, stands as a premier private Christian institution offering diverse career opportunities in higher education. Founded in 1937 by philanthropist George Pepperdine, the university has grown into a vibrant community emphasizing faith, learning, and service. With approximately 10,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, Pepperdine employs faculty, researchers, administrators, and staff who contribute to its mission of developing whole-person leaders.
Jobs at Pepperdine University span its five schools and colleges: Seaver College for liberal arts and sciences, Graziadio Business School, School of Law, School of Public Policy, and Graduate School of Education and Psychology. These roles attract professionals passionate about integrating Christian values with academic excellence. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track professor positions or administrative leadership, the university's scenic location and supportive culture make it a top choice for higher ed jobs.
Pepperdine's history shapes its job landscape. Starting as a small Bible college in Los Angeles, it relocated to Malibu in 1972, where the 830-acre campus now fosters a unique blend of academic rigor and spiritual growth. The motto, Fides et Eruditio (Faith and Learning), guides hiring, prioritizing candidates who embody servant leadership.
Today, with an endowment over $1 billion and national rankings in the top 100 by U.S. News & World Report, Pepperdine offers stable, rewarding positions. Faculty jobs often involve teaching small classes (average 20 students), research, and community engagement, reflecting the university's commitment to holistic education.
To understand jobs at Pepperdine University, key terms include:
These roles form the backbone of Pepperdine's academic community.
For faculty jobs at Pepperdine University, a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field is standard—such as a JD for law positions or DBA for business. Research focus varies: Seaver College seeks expertise in biology, communication, or religion; Graziadio emphasizes entrepreneurship and finance.
Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 3-5 for assistant professors), teaching diverse students, and grant funding. Skills and competencies encompass strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and tech proficiency like learning management systems. Christian faith alignment is valued, often demonstrated through personal statements.
| Role Type | Key Qualifications | Research Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | PhD, 2+ years teaching | Discipline-specific, e.g., psychology studies |
| Research Assistant | Master's/ PhD candidate | Law policy, education tech |
| Dean | PhD + admin experience | Strategic leadership |
Explore university job types for broader insights.
The application process for jobs at Pepperdine University begins on their careers site, where you submit a tailored CV, cover letter, faith statement, teaching philosophy, and three references. Interviews may include campus visits with teaching demos and meetings with faith leaders.
Deadlines align with academic cycles (fall for next year). Use resources like free resume templates for polish.
Pepperdine University actively advances diversity through the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Vision and Values statements. Initiatives include recruitment at HBCUs, affinity groups for underrepresented faculty, and training on inclusive pedagogy. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, surpassing peers. Programs like the Black Faculty and Staff Association foster belonging, ensuring jobs at Pepperdine welcome varied perspectives while honoring its Christian roots.
Work-life balance thrives at Pepperdine's Malibu campus, with ocean trails for hikes, wellness centers offering yoga and counseling, and family events. Faculty benefit from 4:4 teaching loads, summer flexibility, and sabbaticals every seven years. Campus life buzzes with chapel services, surf clubs, and community service, creating a supportive environment. Proximity to Los Angeles provides cultural access, though commuting requires planning. Perks include tuition remission for dependents and housing aid, making it family-friendly.
Employees praise the stunning views and collaborative culture in reviews, with average tenure over 10 years.
Growth in online programs boosts demand for digital pedagogy experts. Recent hires focus on AI ethics in business and climate policy. Salaries competitive: full professors average $150,000+. For lecturer roles, see university lecturer advice. Research assistants find roles in coastal ecology projects.
Employer branding secrets highlight how institutions like Pepperdine attract top talent.
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