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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs in Virginia

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

See Virginia salary details

$42.1K

$79.4K

$133.8K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in Virginia is $79,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $90,700.00 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 Virginia? For Assistant Professor Political Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in Virginia 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 $79,370 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Political Science Assistant/Associate Professor Position

Hampton University Faculty

Hampton, VA • On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Rich in history, steeped in tradition, Hampton University is a dynamic, research level 2 institution of higher education, providing a broad range of technical, liberal arts, and graduate degree programs. In addition to being one of the top historically black universities in the world, Hampton University is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators, representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. The Department of Political Science and History at Hampton University, which houses the BA in Political Science, BA in History, and BA in International Studies degrees, as well as a Pre-Law Program, is seeking to fill an Assistant/Associate professor level position in Political Science beginning in August 2025.
We seek a dynamic scholar whose primary field is Comparative Politics, with a secondary concentration in International Relations. The ideal candidate will have the ability to teach courses such as Politics of the Global South, Introduction to Political Economy, International Law, and Ethics. We are especially interested in candidates whose work focuses on Middle East politics, providing students with critical knowledge of this important region.
Job Duties:
  • Will be required to teach and be knowledgeable in political science, global politics, international law, ethics, and critical thinking.
  • Successful candidates are expected to advise Political Science majors and hold office hours.
  • A successful candidate is expected to contribute to the scholarly advancement of the department through a productive research agenda that includes grantsmanship.
  • Candidates should demonstrate dedication to the progress of the Political Science and History Department, the School of Liberal Arts and Education, and to the University and community as a whole, through service activities.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Qualified candidates must have an earned doctorate in Political Science or related field from an accredited university; however, we will consider candidates that are ABD status with a clear completion plan.
  • A statement of completion must accompany ABD candidates from their graduate program.
  • Experience in and evidence of successful teaching in a university setting is preferred.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience in research and grantsmanship.
  • Although there is an expectation of hiring at the Assistant Professor rank, we will consider filling the position at a higher rank depending upon the qualifications of the applicant.
  • Rank and compensation are commensurate with credentials and experience.

Requirements: Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate a commitment to quality teaching, mentoring of students and an active research agenda, with the potential for, or record of externally funded research activity.
Salary is based on qualifications $71,400-$95,726
To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a completed Application for Faculty Employment to the: https://home.hamptonu.edu/hr/wp-content/uploads/sites/75/2023/11/Faculty-App.pdf
Dr. Bev-Freda Jackson, Chair
Department of Political Science and History
Hampton University
bev-freda@hamptonu.edu
AND
Dr. Sherree Davis, Assistant Dean
School of Liberal Arts and Education
Hampton University
Sherree.davis@hamptonu.edu