Xavier University of Louisiana, often referred to as XULA, is a private liberal arts college located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Founded in 1915, it holds the distinction of being the only historically black Catholic university in the United States. Situated in a vibrant neighborhood, XULA has built a reputation for excellence in STEM fields, particularly pharmacy and health sciences, while maintaining strong programs in liberal arts, business, and education. For job seekers interested in higher education careers, XULA offers a unique blend of academic rigor, community impact, and cultural richness, making jobs at Xavier University of Louisiana particularly appealing for those passionate about serving diverse student populations.
The university's commitment to educating underrepresented students in health professions has led to it producing more African American pharmacists than any other school in the country. This mission-driven approach influences its hiring practices, prioritizing candidates who can contribute to its goals of equity and excellence. Whether you're eyeing faculty positions or staff openings, understanding XULA's background is key to tailoring your application.
Xavier University of Louisiana was established by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament to address the lack of educational opportunities for Black students in the South. From its early days as a high school and college, it evolved into a four-year institution granting bachelor's degrees by 1935. The College of Pharmacy, founded in 1927, became a trailblazer, achieving full accreditation in 1936. Over the decades, XULA weathered challenges like Hurricane Katrina in 2005, reopening stronger with enhanced facilities and a renewed focus on resilience.
Today, with around 3,400 students, XULA continues its legacy, boasting alumni who are leaders in medicine, science, and public service. This history shapes jobs at Xavier University of Louisiana, where employment often involves contributing to its tradition of social justice and academic achievement.
XULA's academic offerings span six colleges: Arts and Sciences, Pharmacy, Education and Counseling, Business, Arts and Humanities, and its unique College of Pharmacy, which is the only one at an HBCU. Popular majors include pre-pharmacy, biology, chemistry, psychology, and computer science. The university emphasizes undergraduate research, interdisciplinary studies, and professional preparation, especially in health-related fields.
This structure creates diverse job opportunities, from tenure-track professor jobs in pharmacology to lecturer roles in education. Staff positions support these programs through roles in student services, research labs, and administrative functions.
Jobs at Xavier University of Louisiana encompass faculty positions, staff openings, administrative roles, and research positions. Faculty jobs are prevalent in the College of Pharmacy, sciences, and humanities, with ongoing needs for assistant professors, associate professors, and full professors. Staff openings include positions in admissions, financial aid, IT, and facilities. Explore types of university jobs for a broader view.
XULA posts openings on its careers page and platforms like AcademicJobs.com. As of 2026, emphasis is on roles supporting post-pandemic recovery and expanded research funding.
For faculty positions at Xavier University of Louisiana, a PhD or terminal degree in the relevant field is typically required. For example, pharmacy faculty need a PharmD, while sciences demand a PhD in biology, chemistry, or related areas. Lecturer jobs may require a master's degree plus teaching experience. Staff roles in research often seek bachelor's or master's in relevant fields, with advanced degrees preferred for senior positions.
Postdoctoral positions require a recent PhD and research experience. These qualifications ensure candidates can contribute to XULA's rigorous academic environment.
XULA's research priorities include health disparities, pharmaceutical development, neuroscience, and environmental sciences, often with a lens on underserved communities. Expertise in minority health, clinical trials, and STEM education is highly valued. Faculty are expected to secure grants from NSF or NIH and mentor students in research. Check research jobs for similar opportunities.
Preferred experience for jobs at XULA includes peer-reviewed publications (5+ for assistant professor roles), grant writing success, prior teaching at HBCUs or MSIs (minority-serving institutions), and community outreach in New Orleans. For staff, 3-5 years in higher ed administration is ideal. Publications in journals like Journal of Pharmacy Practice and experience with diverse student bodies stand out.
Essential skills for XULA roles include cultural competency, strong pedagogical methods for diverse learners, data analysis software proficiency (e.g., SPSS, R), grant management, and collaboration. Soft skills like mentorship, leadership, and adaptability are crucial in this dynamic campus environment. Technical competencies vary by role, such as lab management for research positions.
To apply for jobs at Xavier University of Louisiana, visit the official careers site or higher ed jobs boards. Submit a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy, research statement, and three references. Tips:
The process involves initial screening, interviews, and campus visits. Deadlines vary; apply early for faculty positions.
XULA's diversity efforts are core to its identity. Initiatives include the TRIO programs for first-generation students, the Office of Institutional Research supporting equity data, and partnerships like the Louisiana Cancer Research Center. Faculty hiring emphasizes underrepresented groups, with mentorship programs and bias training. As an HBCU, XULA fosters inclusive environments through events like Black History Month celebrations and allyship workshops.
Work-life balance at XULA is supported by flexible scheduling, sabbaticals after tenure, wellness centers, and employee assistance programs. Campus life in New Orleans blends academic focus with cultural vibrancy—Mardi Gras, jazz festivals, and proximity to the French Quarter. Employees enjoy gym access, professional development stipends ($2,000/year), and family events. Tenure-track faculty report good balance, with research leave options.
HBCU (Historically Black College or University): An institution founded before 1964 with the principal mission of educating Black Americans, like XULA. MSI (Minority-Serving Institution): Schools serving high proportions of minority students, qualifying for federal grants. Tenure-track: Academic positions leading to permanent employment after review, common at XULA for faculty.
Ready to pursue higher ed jobs? Check higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if you're recruiting. Xavier University of Louisiana careers align perfectly with those seeking impactful roles in education. Visit research assistant tips or postdoc advice for preparation.
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