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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs in Texas

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

See Texas salary details

$39.6K

$74.6K

$125.8K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in Texas is $74,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $85,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Texas?

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,585 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Political Science (American Constitutional Law, American Political Thought...

Employment @ Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Come and join the Bearkat community!

Named after Texas' legendary hero, General Sam Houston, the university boasts a rich historical legacy that resonates with the spirit of Texas, which provides a balance between a peaceful, natural setting and proximity to urban amenities. With a student population of over 21,000, SHSU offers a vibrant and dynamic community. SHSU has a small town feel with large scale opportunities. Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas and just an hour drive north of Houston, Huntsville provides area residents with a sense of community and belonging.
SHSU offers compelling options for individuals seeking a fulfilling and impactful career including a superior benefit package, competitive salaries and a flexible work environment fostering work/life balance. SHSU offers programs that support a healthy work-life balance, contributing to employee well-being and job satisfaction, as well as, professional development opportunities with our educational assistance and dependent assistance programs.

Position Information
This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.
Position Title Assistant Professor of Political Science (American Constitutional Law, American Political Thought, Public Law, Judicial Systems) Requisition 202600086F Rank Assistant Professor FLSA status Exempt Hiring Salary
Salary commensurate with education and experience.
Position Category Position Type Full-Time Tenure Track College College of Humanities and Social Sciences Department Dept of Political Science Open Date 07/07/2026 Quicklink https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/47657
Refer Applicants To
Contact Name Dr. Kenneth McIntyre Title
Professor
Department of Political Science
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
1901 Avenue I
Box 2149
Huntsville, TX 77341-2149
Contact Phone (936) 294-4676 Contact Email kmcintyre@shsu.edu
Position Details
Duties Performed in the Usual Course of the Job
The Department of Political Science at Sam Houston State University is seeking a full-time, tenure-track faculty member at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning August 2027. The successful candidate(s) will be responsible for teaching three courses per semester and engaging in research/scholarly activities. The successful candidate(s) will also be expected to participate in service activities such as program and curriculum development, in-person and online course development, and student recruitment and engagement.
Educational Requirements for the Position
Candidates should have a PhD in Political Science from an accredited institution of higher education. ABD candidates will be considered, but the successful candidate must have a PhD by the start date (August 2027).
Experience Required for the Position
The successful candidate must be able to teach undergraduate courses (in-person and online) in Public Law, American Constitutional Law, Civil Rights & Civil Liberties, Judicial Systems, American Political Thought, and American or Texas Government, a graduate course on Judicial Politics and a graduate seminar in American Politics/American Political Thought (graduate courses are all online). In the teaching statement, candidates should directly address their qualifications to teach these specific courses and to teach both in-person and online courses.

The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the leadership of the Legal Studies Minor within the Political Science Department.

Demonstrated evidence of an established or emerging research/scholarly program in Public Law, Constitutional Jurisprudence, Judicial Politics/Systems, and/or American Political Thought is required.
Other Requirements for the Position
Required Application Materials: 
Cover letter that identifies research and teaching interests, qualifications, and experience for the position.
Current CV that includes, if applicable, a summary of previous teaching experience and the format of each course taught (i.e., in-person, online, hybrid).
All graduate transcripts. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted during the application process; however, the successful candidate must submit official transcripts documenting all post-secondary degrees.
Three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with the applicant's teaching and research abilities.
Recent student teaching evaluations covering the last two semesters of teaching, if available. Those without teaching evaluations will need to upload a placeholder document in lieu of evaluations.
Teaching statement, including a discussion of online pedagogy and how the applicant's teaching will meet the specific needs of Sam Houston State University's students.
If available, sample syllabi for relevant courses.

The application process will remain open until the position is filled, but the committee will begin evaluating applicants on 1 September 2026. Please direct questions to Dr. Kenneth McIntyre (kmcintyre@shsu.edu).
Special Instructions Summary
Please note: References provided in the References section of the application will receive an automated email reference request at the time the application is submitted.
Open Until Filled Yes
EEO Statement
EEO Statement
Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an "at will" employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code 51.215.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report