Radford University, located in the small city of Radford, Virginia, is a public comprehensive university serving over 7,400 undergraduates and 1,300 graduate students. Nestled in the New River Valley, it offers a picturesque campus environment that combines academic rigor with community engagement. Established in 1910 as the State Normal School for Women, it evolved into a co-educational institution in 1972, emphasizing teaching excellence, research, and service. Jobs at Radford University span faculty, administrative, and support roles, attracting professionals passionate about higher education in a supportive setting.
The university is known for its strong programs in criminal justice, nursing, business administration, and education. Its commitment to student success is reflected in high retention rates and innovative teaching methods. For those seeking higher ed jobs, Radford provides a dynamic workplace where educators and staff contribute to shaping future leaders.
Careers at Radford University include tenure-track faculty positions, adjunct lecturer roles, research associates, department chairs, and administrative positions like deans and directors. Common openings are in the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences, College of Science and Technology, and Davis College of Business and Economics. Staff jobs cover areas such as IT support, student affairs, and facilities management.
Faculty roles often involve teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, advising students, and conducting research. For a detailed breakdown, explore university job types. Administrative positions focus on operations, accreditation, and strategic planning, while support roles ensure the campus runs smoothly.
To secure faculty jobs at Radford University, candidates typically need a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) in their field from an accredited institution. For example, positions in the Department of Nursing require a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing. Lecturer or instructor roles may accept a master's degree with significant professional experience.
Administrative roles like provost or dean often demand advanced degrees plus leadership experience. Research positions require specialized training, such as postdoctoral fellowships in fields like psychology or biology. These qualifications ensure candidates can meet the university's standards for teaching and scholarship.
Radford University prioritizes applied research aligned with regional needs. Expertise in criminal justice forensics, rural healthcare delivery, and sustainable business practices is highly valued. Faculty in the Waldron College of Health and Human Services focus on community health initiatives, while those in science emphasize environmental studies leveraging the Appalachian region.
Candidates should demonstrate expertise through prior research, such as publications in journals like the Journal of Forensic Sciences or grants from the Virginia Department of Health. Interdisciplinary work, like combining data analytics with education, is encouraged to support the university's strategic goals.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of higher education teaching, peer-reviewed publications (at least 5-10), and securing external funding. Skills such as grant writing, curriculum development, and student mentoring are essential. Proficiency in tools like Blackboard for online teaching or SPSS for research analysis is advantageous.
Soft skills like adaptability and cultural competence enhance candidacy, especially for roles involving international students.
The application process begins on the Radford University Human Resources website or through platforms like university jobs boards. Submit a CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy statement, transcripts, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and research presentations.
Tip: Review recent job postings for specific requirements and reference department achievements in your application. See how to write a winning academic CV for guidance.
Radford University fosters an inclusive environment through the Diversity Plan 2025, featuring the Center for Diversity and Inclusion and annual Equity Summits. Programs like the Multicultural Leadership Institute support underrepresented faculty. The university recruits via HBCU networks and offers affinity groups for LGBTQ+ and veterans. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds, exceeding state averages. These efforts create a welcoming space for all employees.
🏞️ Radford promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling, parental leave matching Virginia standards, and employee assistance programs. The campus, spanning 191 acres along the New River, offers trails, gyms, and cultural events like the Highlander Festival. Faculty enjoy professional development via the Center for Faculty Excellence and sabbaticals every six years. Proximity to Roanoke provides urban amenities, while the rural setting ensures a peaceful lifestyle. Employee testimonials highlight collaborative culture and community involvement.
Jobs at Radford University offer rewarding opportunities in a vibrant Virginia community. From faculty to admin roles, the university values qualified professionals dedicated to education. Explore more higher ed jobs, get higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. With strong support for research and inclusion, Radford stands out in higher education careers. Check employer branding secrets and become a university lecturer resources.
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