Shaw University Jobs & Careers

🎓 Overview of Shaw University

Shaw University stands as a cornerstone in American higher education, founded in 1865 by Henry Martin Tupper in Raleigh, North Carolina. As the first historically black university (HBCU) in the Southern United States, it has a rich legacy of empowering African American students and communities. Although listed with a connection to Mandaluyong in the Philippines, Shaw University's primary campus is in Raleigh, where it enrolls around 1,400 students in undergraduate and graduate programs spanning liberal arts, business administration, education, social work, divinity, and criminal justice. The university's mission emphasizes academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service, making it an attractive employer for those passionate about higher education.

Jobs at Shaw University offer professionals the chance to contribute to a mission-driven institution that fosters inclusive learning environments. Whether you're seeking faculty positions, administrative roles, or support staff opportunities, the university provides a platform to impact future leaders. With its Baptist heritage and commitment to social justice, Shaw attracts educators and administrators who value diversity and community engagement.

Types of Jobs Available at Shaw University

Careers at Shaw University are diverse, catering to academics, administrators, and support professionals. Common openings include tenure-track faculty roles in departments like education and business, adjunct professor jobs for part-time teaching, and higher ed jobs in administration such as deans or department chairs. Research assistant jobs and postdoctoral positions occasionally arise, particularly in social sciences and education research.

For a comprehensive breakdown of university job types, visit our university job types resource. Staff positions in student affairs, IT, HR, and facilities also abound, supporting the campus's daily operations. Leadership roles like executive positions in higher ed often require experience in strategic planning and fundraising.

Key Definitions

To fully understand jobs at Shaw University, here are definitions of essential terms:

• HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities): Institutions founded before 1964 primarily to educate Black Americans, like Shaw University, promoting equity in education.
• Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, offering job security and academic freedom.
• Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor teaching courses without tenure benefits, ideal for flexible schedules.
• Postdoc (Postdoctoral researcher): Temporary research role post-PhD to gain experience, often funded by grants.

Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at Shaw University

Academic qualifications vary by role but emphasize advanced degrees. For full-time faculty jobs at Shaw University, a PhD or EdD in the relevant field is typically required, such as a PhD in curriculum and instruction for education roles or a PhD in divinity for theological positions. Master's degrees are sufficient for lecturer jobs or adjunct professor jobs, especially in professional programs like business administration.

Administrative higher ed jobs may require a master's in higher education administration or related fields, paired with certifications like in HR for personnel roles. Research positions demand specialized knowledge, often with a focus on underrepresented populations, aligning with Shaw's HBCU status.

Research Focus and Expertise Needed

Shaw University prioritizes research addressing social issues, education equity, and community development. Expertise in areas like African American studies, urban education, or public health is highly valued. Faculty often engage in grant-funded projects through partnerships with organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). For research assistant jobs, skills in qualitative methods or data analysis for educational outcomes are key. Postdocs might focus on interdisciplinary work combining theology and social work.

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Competencies

Preferred experience for jobs at Shaw University includes 3-5 years of teaching at minority-serving institutions, peer-reviewed publications (at least 5 for associate professors), and grant management. Skills like curriculum development, student mentoring, and cultural competency are essential. Competencies in leadership, communication, and technology integration (e.g., learning management systems) stand out. For admin roles, experience in accreditation processes like SACSCOC is advantageous. Explore higher ed career advice for building these skills.

📋 Application Process and Tips

The application process for Shaw University jobs begins with checking openings on their career portal or sites like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a tailored cover letter highlighting alignment with the HBCU mission, a detailed CV, teaching philosophy statement, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demonstrations and diversity statements.

• Research the department's focus to customize your materials.
• Use our free resume template and free cover letter template for academics.
• Network via conferences or alumni events.
• Follow up politely after submission.
• Prepare for questions on equity and inclusion.

Tip: Reference how to write a winning academic CV to stand out. Applications are reviewed year-round, with priority for fall hires.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at Shaw University

Shaw University excels in diversity as the nation's first HBCU, with initiatives like the Annual Diversity Conference, TRIO programs for first-generation students, and the Office of Intercultural Affairs. Faculty development workshops address bias training, and recruitment targets underrepresented groups. The university partners with organizations for scholarships and mentorship, fostering an inclusive environment where 90% of students identify as Black or African American, yet welcomes global talent.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Raleigh's vibrant scene enhances campus life at Shaw University, with green spaces, cultural festivals, and proximity to Research Triangle Park. Employees benefit from flexible hours, tuition remission for dependents, health insurance, and retirement plans. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every seven years and professional development funds. Campus features modern facilities, athletic centers, and events like homecoming, promoting community. Work-life balance is supported by wellness programs and family-friendly policies, making it ideal for long-term careers.

Why Pursue Higher Ed Jobs at Shaw University?

Jobs at Shaw University combine meaningful work with growth opportunities in a historic setting. Connect with higher ed jobs, university jobs, and higher ed career advice on AcademicJobs.com. Institutions like Shaw post openings regularly—check post a job if recruiting. For lecturer or professor roles, see lecturer jobs or professor jobs.