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Assistant Professor Of Political Science Jobs in Rochester, MI

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$48.8K

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How much do assistant professor of political science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor of political science in Rochester, MI is $78,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,900.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant professor of political science do?

An assistant professor of political science is tasked with teaching each course assigned by a college or university on their tenure track. Their students learn basic and advanced elements of political science, including national and international events. Aside from teaching, an assistant professor of political science is expected to complete research in the field. The qualifications to become an assistant professor include a doctorate in the field.

What does an assistant professor of political science do?

An Assistant Professor of Political Science typically teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in political science, conducts original research, publishes scholarly articles, and participates in university service such as serving on committees. They may also advise students academically and supervise student research. This role is often a tenure-track position, meaning the professor is working toward earning tenure based on their performance in teaching, research, and service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of political science, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Political Science, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in political science or a related field, along with a strong record of research and teaching experience. Familiarity with academic publishing platforms, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), and learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is usually required. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and mentorship skills distinguish top candidates in this role. These competencies are essential for effectively educating students, contributing to scholarly research, and advancing within academia.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant professors of political science during their early years in academia?

Assistant Professors of Political Science often encounter challenges balancing their teaching loads, research expectations, and service commitments, especially during the tenure-track period. Juggling course preparation, grading, and student advising with the need to publish research and attend conferences can be demanding. Additionally, integrating into a new academic department and building professional networks requires time and effort. However, many institutions offer mentorship programs and peer support to help new faculty members navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Of Political Science vs Lecturer in Political Science?

AspectAssistant Professor Of Political ScienceLecturer in Political Science
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) or equivalentMaster's degree or Ph.D., depending on institution
Work EnvironmentResearch and teaching at universities, often with research expectationsPrimarily teaching-focused, often with less research emphasis
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, research universitiesColleges, community colleges, some universities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic roles, career path, qualificationsTeaching responsibilities, qualifications, job scope

The Assistant Professor Of Political Science typically holds a Ph.D. and balances research with teaching at universities, aiming for tenure. In contrast, a Lecturer in Political Science mainly focuses on teaching, often with less emphasis on research, and may have different qualification requirements depending on the institution. Both roles are essential in academia but differ in responsibilities and career progression.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Of Political Science jobs in Rochester, MI?

For Assistant Professor Of Political Science jobs in Rochester, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Of Political Science jobs in Rochester, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Of Political Science jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Assistant Professor Of Political Science jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Assistant Professor Of Political Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Of Political Science job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,345 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Political Science - American Politics

Oakland University

Rochester, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Teach undergraduate courses in American Politics, including an introductory course and upper-division courses in political behavior and/or political institutions.

  • Maintain an active research agenda and contribute to the department's research methods sequence.

  • Advise and mentor undergraduate students, including research supervision.


Oakland University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Assistant Professor of Political Science - American Politics
Department
1346 - Political Science
Requisition No.
0000839
Job Description Summary
The Department of Political Science at Oakland University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in American Politics at the rank of Assistant Professor, beginning August 15, 2027.
We seek a candidate broadly trained in American Politics with an active research agenda and a demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching. The area of specialization within American Politics is open. The successful candidate will be expected to teach an introductory course in American politics and upper-division courses in political behavior and/or political institutions (other than the judiciary), as well as courses in the candidate's areas of expertise. The ability to contribute to the department's research methods sequence is highly desirable. Oakland University operates on the semester system, and the standard teaching load is five courses per academic year.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates with their Ph.D. in hand are preferred, but candidates who are ABD will also be considered, provided that they can demonstrate they are near completion of the dissertation. Candidates should demonstrate the potential for a productive scholarly research program, excellence in undergraduate teaching, and a commitment to advising and mentoring undergraduate research.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, writing sample, unofficial graduate transcripts, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and contact information for at least three references through Oakland University's online application system. Once all required application materials have been uploaded through the online system, references will be contacted through the online system to submit confidential letters of recommendation. Applicants may also submit teaching evaluations, a writing sample, and a research statement. Review of applications will begin on October 12, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Terri L. Towner, American Politics Search Chair, at towner@oakland.edu.
School/College & Department/Program Summary
The Department of Political Science, housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, offers undergraduate degree programs in Political Science (B.A.), International Relations (B.A.), and Public Administration and Public Policy (B.S.), as well as a NASPAA-accredited Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program. The Department also conducts applied research for public and nonprofit agencies through the Public Affairs Research Laboratory.
More About Oakland University
The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor's degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University's Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan.
Pay Basis
Open Date
08/26/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Job Category
Full-time Faculty
EEO Statement
Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.

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