The University of Wisconsin - La Crosse (UW-La Crosse), founded in 1909, is a public university in the University of Wisconsin System located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, along the Mississippi River. With approximately 10,800 students, it offers over 100 undergraduate majors and 30 graduate programs, emphasizing liberal arts, business, education, and health professions. UW-La Crosse is renowned for its exercise and sport science program, ranked among the top in the nation, and its commitment to undergraduate research. The campus spans 240 acres, providing a scenic environment that supports both academic and recreational activities. As part of a comprehensive state system, it attracts faculty and staff passionate about teaching and community engagement in a mid-sized city setting.
Jobs at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse span faculty, staff, and administrative roles in higher education. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and postdocs in departments like biology, business administration, computer science, education, nursing, and recreation management. Staff roles cover research assistants, administrative coordinators, and HR positions. The university posts openings on its careers site and platforms like higher ed jobs. Current opportunities often focus on growing fields like public health and data science, reflecting Wisconsin's demand for skilled professionals. For a full list of position types, visit university job types.
UW-La Crosse prioritizes roles that contribute to its mission of student success and regional impact. Recent hires have included experts in cybersecurity and sustainable environmental management, aligning with the university's strategic plan.
Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after a probationary period, typically 5-7 years, involving research, teaching, and service. PhD: Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree in most fields, requiring original research dissertation. Postdoc: Postdoctoral fellowship, a temporary position for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced research experience. Lecturer: Non-tenure-track teaching-focused role, often part-time or contract-based.
📊 For faculty jobs at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant discipline is typically required for tenure-track positions. For example, a professor in microbiology needs a PhD in microbiology or a related biological science. Lecturer positions may require a master's degree plus significant teaching experience. Administrative roles like department chairs often demand a PhD plus administrative background. Research assistants usually hold a bachelor's or master's degree, while postdocs require a completed PhD. UW-La Crosse verifies credentials through transcripts and references during hiring.
UW-La Crosse encourages research in areas like health promotion, river studies, business analytics, and teacher education. Expertise in grant-funded projects from NSF (National Science Foundation) or NIH (National Institutes of Health) is valued. Faculty in exercise science might focus on biomechanics or sports psychology, while business roles emphasize entrepreneurship. Interdisciplinary work, such as combining computer science with environmental science for climate modeling, is promoted. Check research jobs for specific calls.
Preferred candidates have peer-reviewed publications, external grants, and teaching portfolios. For instance, a successful applicant for a nursing faculty role had 5+ years of clinical practice and multiple journal articles. Experience mentoring undergraduate researchers or securing funding from Wisconsin Sea Grant is advantageous. Prior work at comprehensive universities or community engagement strengthens applications. See postdoctoral success for thriving tips.
Essential skills include excellent communication for lecturing large classes, proficiency in statistical software for research, and collaboration for team projects. Competencies like cultural competence, innovative pedagogy, and ethical research practices are key. For admin roles, budget management and HR skills are crucial. Soft skills such as adaptability to hybrid teaching and student advising round out profiles.
🌍 UW-La Crosse advances diversity through the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council, LGBTQ+ Alliance, and TRIO programs supporting first-generation students. The university's strategic plan commits to inclusive excellence, with training on bias and recruitment from underrepresented groups. Examples include the Women's Leadership Institute and partnerships with Hmong communities in La Crosse. Faculty hires prioritize diverse candidates to reflect the student body, which is 10% students of color.
UW-La Crosse promotes work-life balance with flexible schedules, parental leave, and wellness programs. The campus overlooks the Mississippi River, offering trails for hiking and biking. Employees enjoy NCAA Division III athletics, cultural events at the Fine Arts Center, and proximity to La Crosse's breweries and festivals. Professional development includes sabbaticals and conferences. The supportive community fosters collaboration, with low cost of living enhancing quality of life in Wisconsin.
The application process involves online submission via UW System careers portal, including CV, cover letter, transcripts, and references. Tips: Customize materials to UW-La Crosse's mission; highlight teaching philosophy. Network at conferences or via alumni. Prepare for interviews with teaching demos. Learn how to write a winning academic CV and use free resume template. Deadlines are strict; follow up professionally.
Jobs at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse offer rewarding careers in a dynamic riverside setting. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. With strong programs and community focus, it's ideal for academics seeking impact.
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