The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) stands as the only public university in Washington, DC, serving a diverse student body with a commitment to accessible higher education. Jobs at UDC span faculty, staff, and administrative roles across its colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, School of Business and Public Administration, and the David A. Clarke School of Law. As a land-grant institution and Historically Black College and University (HBCU), UDC emphasizes practical, community-oriented education and research, making it an attractive employer for those passionate about urban issues.
With campuses in Van Ness and the Georgia/Harvard Street area, UDC offers positions that contribute to its mission of transforming lives through education. Current openings often include tenure-track professors, adjunct instructors, research assistants, and support staff in areas like student services and facilities management. Salaries are competitive for the region, with faculty earning between $75,000 and $130,000 annually based on experience and rank.
Founded in 1977 through the merger of three teacher-training institutions—DC Teachers College, Miner Teachers College, and Wilson Teachers College—UDC has evolved into a comprehensive urban university. Its land-grant status, designated in 2012, underscores its focus on agriculture, mechanical arts, and community extension services adapted to an urban context, such as sustainable urban farming and workforce development programs.
The university's mission centers on providing high-quality, affordable education to DC residents, with a strong emphasis on social mobility. This history shapes job opportunities, prioritizing candidates who understand public service and equity in higher education. For those interested in higher ed jobs, UDC's legacy offers a unique platform to impact local communities directly.
Jobs at the University of the District of Columbia are diverse, catering to academic, research, and professional staff. Faculty positions in disciplines like nursing, computer science, and public administration are common, alongside roles in the Community College division for associate-level teaching. Research jobs focus on applied projects, such as those at the Center for Urban Education or the Institute for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Solutions.
Administrative positions include directors of student success, HR specialists, and IT support. Explore university job types for a breakdown of faculty, adjunct professor jobs, and more. UDC also posts administration jobs and research assistant jobs, often aligned with federal grants due to its DC location.
To understand jobs at UDC fully, here are key terms defined:
For faculty jobs at UDC, a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required for tenure-track positions, such as Assistant Professor of Biology or Associate Professor of Law. Master's degrees suffice for community college instructors or lecturers. Candidates for senior roles like Department Chair often hold a PhD plus 5-10 years of experience.
Law school positions require a JD (Juris Doctor) and bar admission. Research roles demand advanced degrees in fields like engineering or public health. UDC values credentials from accredited institutions, with preference for those with DC or urban teaching experience. Check professor jobs and lecturer jobs for specifics.
UDC's research prioritizes urban challenges, including water resources management, renewable energy, cancer disparities, and policy analysis. Expertise in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), data science, or community health is sought for projects funded by NSF or HHS. For example, the Center for Applied Research and Urban Policy conducts studies on DC workforce needs, requiring skills in quantitative analysis.
Candidates should demonstrate expertise through prior publications or grants. Relevant blog: learn how to excel as a research assistant, adaptable to UDC contexts.
Preferred candidates have 3+ peer-reviewed publications, successful grant applications (e.g., $100K+ from federal sources), and teaching portfolios with student evaluations above 4.0/5. Experience at minority-serving institutions or urban public universities is advantageous. Administrative roles favor 5+ years in higher ed operations.
Essential skills include:
UDC seeks innovative thinkers committed to equity. For career advice, see how to write a winning academic CV.
To apply for jobs at UDC, visit the university's HR portal or university jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Submit a CV, cover letter, transcripts, and three references. Tips:
Process takes 4-6 months, with searches peaking in spring.
UDC champions diversity as DC's HBCU, with initiatives like the Office of Equity and Inclusion, TRIO programs for underrepresented students, and faculty diversity hires. The Male Student Success Initiative boosts retention among Black males, while partnerships with NAACP promote inclusive hiring. 70% of faculty are people of color, exceeding national averages.
UDC supports balance with flexible schedules, 24 paid leave days, tuition remission, and wellness centers. The Van Ness campus features green spaces, gym, and cultural events amid DC's monuments. Proximity to federal agencies offers networking; employee affinity groups foster community. Remote options exist for some roles.
Jobs at the University of the District of Columbia offer meaningful impact in a dynamic urban setting. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job to connect with opportunities. UDC's commitment to excellence makes it ideal for dedicated professionals.
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