Tennessee State University (TSU), located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a vibrant public historically black university (HBCU) founded in 1912. Originally established as the Agricultural and Industrial State Normal School, it evolved into a comprehensive institution offering over 70 undergraduate, 40 graduate, and doctoral programs across eight colleges, including the College of Agriculture, College of Business, College of Engineering, and College of Health Sciences. With approximately 9,000 students, TSU stands as the only public university in Tennessee to award doctoral degrees and is recognized for its commitment to research, teaching excellence, and community service. Situated in the heart of "Music City," TSU provides a dynamic environment for jobs at Tennessee State University, blending academic rigor with cultural richness. Professionals seeking higher ed jobs find opportunities in faculty, research, and administration, contributing to TSU's mission of empowering diverse scholars.
Jobs at Tennessee State University encompass a wide spectrum tailored to academic professionals. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and adjunct instructors in fields like biology, computer science, nursing, and education. Research roles such as postdoctoral fellows and research assistants focus on funded projects in cybersecurity, sustainable agriculture, and health disparities. Administrative jobs cover deans, department chairs, HR specialists, and student affairs coordinators. Support staff positions in IT, facilities, and library services round out opportunities. For a detailed breakdown, explore university job types. TSU's emphasis on interdisciplinary work makes it ideal for those pursuing research jobs or faculty higher ed jobs.
To understand jobs at Tennessee State University fully, key terms include:
For faculty jobs at Tennessee State University, a PhD, EdD, or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field is standard. For example, engineering professors need a PhD in civil or mechanical engineering, while nursing roles require a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Master's degrees suffice for some lecturer positions or administrative roles like academic advisors. Research assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's with lab experience. TSU values credentials from accredited institutions, aligning with its Carnegie classification as a Doctoral University with High Research Activity.
TSU prioritizes research addressing societal challenges, particularly for underrepresented communities. Key areas include agricultural sciences at the TSU Farm, cybersecurity through the Center of Excellence in Transportation Cybersecurity, and health sciences focusing on rural health disparities. Expertise in data analytics, bioinformatics, or renewable energy is sought for funded projects. Faculty must demonstrate potential for external grants, with TSU securing millions annually from federal sources. Check research assistant jobs for entry points into these areas.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of teaching at minority-serving institutions, 5+ peer-reviewed publications, and successful grant applications (e.g., $500K+ in funding). For postdocs, prior lab supervision or conference presentations are valued. Administrative candidates benefit from 5+ years in higher ed management. TSU favors those with community outreach, like mentoring first-generation students. Learn more via postdoctoral success tips.
Essential skills for Tennessee State University jobs include excellent communication for diverse classrooms, proficiency in grant writing tools like Grants.gov, data analysis software (R, SPSS), and cultural competency for HBCU environments. Competencies encompass leadership in committees, innovative pedagogy like hybrid teaching, and collaboration across disciplines. Soft skills like adaptability in Nashville's evolving academic scene are crucial.
The application process for jobs at TSU begins with monitoring the official HR portal for postings. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter addressing the job description, transcripts, and three references. Interviews often include teaching demos and research presentations. Tips: Customize your materials to TSU's HBCU mission; network at conferences; use our free cover letter template. Follow up politely. Prepare for questions on diversity contributions. For CV advice, see how to write a winning academic CV. Aim for applications 4-6 weeks before deadlines.
TSU champions diversity through the Office for Institutional Equity, which oversees affirmative action and Title IX compliance. Initiatives include the Presidential Diversity Fellowship for underrepresented faculty hires, Black History Month programming, and partnerships with organizations like the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The university hosts inclusive recruitment fairs and training on unconscious bias. In 2023, TSU increased diverse faculty hires by 15%, reflecting its HBCU roots while welcoming global talent.
TSU supports work-life balance with generous PTO (up to 22 days annually), parental leave, and employee assistance programs including counseling. Flexible work arrangements for researchers and hybrid options for admin roles are common. Campus life thrives with the Aristocrat of Bands marching band, Division I athletics (Ohio Valley Conference), and events like Tiger Pride Week. Nashville offers live music at venues like the Ryman Auditorium, parks along the Cumberland River, and a thriving food scene. Faculty enjoy proximity to Vanderbilt University for collaborations and cultural hubs. Wellness centers provide yoga and fitness classes, fostering a holistic environment.
Choosing TSU means joining a legacy institution with competitive salaries (professors average $80K-$120K), research support, and growth opportunities. Its Nashville location boosts networking in music, healthcare, and tech industries. As an HBCU, TSU offers profound impact on students from diverse backgrounds.
Jobs at Tennessee State University provide rewarding paths in higher education. From faculty to research positions, TSU in Nashville, TN, welcomes qualified professionals. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your career.
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