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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs in Michigan

Job Summary The University of Michigan's Department of Political Science invites applications for a tenure-track position at the assistant professor level. We seek a scholar who studies either China ...

Job Summary The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) and the Institute for Global ... This is a university year appointment and will be at the level of Assistant Professor. We are ...

Posting Details Position Information Job Title Assistant Professor Department 0090 - Nursing ... scientific/professional meetings, and grant applications/funding. A minimum of two years of ...

Posting Details Position Information Job Title Assistant Professor Department 2102 - Mechanical ... Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration ...

... sciences. This is a University-year appointment at the Assistant Professor level. The expected ... start date is August 25, 2025. Qualifications We seek applicants with a research agenda focused on ...

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

See Michigan salary details

$37K

$69.8K

$117.7K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in Michigan is $69,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssistant Professor Political ScienceLecturer Political Science
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Political Science or related fieldMaster's degree often sufficient; PhD preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research, teachingPrimarily teaching-focused, often contract-based
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsUniversities, colleges, community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between an Assistant Professor Political Science and a Lecturer Political Science lies in their credentials, job responsibilities, and employment status. Assistant Professors typically hold a PhD, engage in research alongside teaching, and have a tenure-track position. Lecturers usually focus primarily on teaching, often with a master's degree, and may work on contract or part-time. Both roles are common in academic settings, but Assistant Professors are more involved in research and long-term academic career development.

What does an assistant professor of political science do?

An Assistant Professor of Political Science teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in political science, conducts research in their area of expertise, and publishes scholarly work. They also advise students, participate in departmental and university service, and may apply for research grants. This position is typically an entry-level, tenure-track faculty role at a college or university.

What are some typical challenges assistant professors of political science face during the tenure-track period?

Assistant Professors in Political Science often balance teaching, research, and service commitments, which can be demanding, especially during the tenure-track years. Managing a heavy teaching load while producing high-quality, publishable research is a common challenge. Additionally, building a professional network, securing research funding, and actively participating in departmental service or committees are essential for career advancement. Developing a clear research agenda and seeking mentorship from senior faculty can help navigate these challenges and set a strong foundation for tenure review.

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 generally need a Ph.D. in political science or a closely related field, along with a strong record of research and teaching. Familiarity with academic research databases, statistical analysis software such as SPSS or Stata, and learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and contribute to a collegial academic environment. These competencies are essential for effective teaching, advancing research, and building a positive reputation within the academic community.
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Michigan? For Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in Michigan 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 $69,777 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Political Science (Fall 2027)

Aquinas College

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Political Science Department at Aquinas College invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in American Politics at the rank of Assistant Professor, beginning in August 2027 (Fall Semester).

We are seeking a broadly trained educator and scholar dedicated to undergraduate teaching excellence in a liberal arts environment. The standard teaching load is 3-3, offering a balanced schedule with opportunities to design and teach upper-level courses in your specific areas of scholarly interest.

Key Responsibilities
  • Teaching & Curriculum: Teach introductory courses in American Politics, as well as upper-level courses on political institutions (the Presidency, Congress), political thought, and research methods.

  • Pre-Law & Experiential Learning: Contribute to the department's pre-law offerings (e.g., Constitutional Law, Moot Court) and/or actively develop national-level internship opportunities for students.

  • General Education: Contribute to the college's general education program.

  • Student Mentorship: Actively engage in undergraduate student advising, mentorship, and departmental programs.

  • Service & Collaboration: Work collegially with faculty members across campus and participate in departmental and college-wide committee work.

QualificationsRequired:
  • An earned Ph.D. in Political Science or a closely related field by the time of appointment.

Preferred:
  • Demonstrated, high-quality teaching experience at the college level.

  • A strong commitment to, and record of, scholarly contribution to the discipline of Political Science.

  • Proven ability to work collaboratively across campus boundaries.

  • Enthusiasm for actively advising and mentoring undergraduate students.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive application packet. To ensure full consideration, please mail the following materials:

  1. Letter of Application (including a detailed discussion of your teaching philosophy)

  2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  3. Course evaluations and sample course materials (syllabi, activities, etc.)

  4. Evidence of scholarly contributions (publications, writing samples, or working papers)

  5. Official or unofficial graduate transcripts

  6. At least three (3) letters of recommendation

If you require accessibility assistance or accommodation for a disability when applying for open positions, please call us at 616-632-1072.


Aquinas College, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition, provides a liberal arts education with a global perspective, emphasizing career preparation focused on leadership, service to others, and a lifelong passion for learning. Aquinas offers an inclusive and welcoming environment. Aquinas College is committed to recruiting talented and diverse faculty and staff who are capable of exposing its students to a wide range of cultures and perspectives and whose presence on the campus will enhance the diversity of the community in which the College resides.


Aquinas College has a long-standing commitment to equal opportunity and a work environment that is free of unlawful harassment or discrimination. Aquinas College provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran or active duty military status, familial status, height, weight, genetic information or any other status protected by applicable law.