"Assistant Professor of Political Science"

The Social Science Division of the Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences at Pepperdine University invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Political Science to begin August 1, 2026. We are open to various areas of expertise within the fields of either U.S. or international politics. An interest in teaching an introductory U.S. government course that serves the general education program of Seaver College, an introductory statistics course for the social sciences, or a course on Hispanic or Latin American politics would be welcome regardless of specialty. Qualifications include a Ph.D. in Political Science or a closely related field, an active scholarly agenda, and a commitment to excellent teaching in a Christian liberal arts environment.

Pepperdine’s undergraduate Seaver College is a residential liberal arts college of approximately 3,500 students situated in Malibu, California. Successful applicants must have an active commitment to the Christian mission of the University and reflect on their willingness to support the mission of Seaver College in their application materials.

Applicants should provide the following materials: 1) a cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) a response to the University’s Christian mission, 4) transcripts of all graduate work (copies are acceptable during the application process; however, official transcripts will be required for selected applicants), and 5) names and contact information for three references (these should be the same individuals who will provide a Confidential Letter of Recommendation or Evaluation if the candidate proceeds with interviews).

Pepperdine is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Qualified individuals should be able to show respect for workplace differences, and have the ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds. Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal, education, and employment screening. The University conducts such screenings in compliance with applicable laws and with the objectives of evaluating risk and supporting a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests; safeguarding key University assets including people, property, information, and the University’s reputation; and providing comprehensive job-related information to University leaders to enable them to make prudent hiring decisions. Qualified individuals with criminal histories will be considered for employment in compliance with applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.

Review of applicants will begin on October 1, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. Please address any inquiries regarding the position to the chair of the search committee: Dr. Chris Soper (chris.soper@pepperdine.edu), Social Science Division, Seaver College, Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263.

The salary for this appointment will range from $90,174 to $96,257 and reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this faculty appointment. Actual salary may vary based on the qualifications and experience of the applicant, as well as market conditions. In addition to salary, Pepperdine offers a robust suite of employee benefits.