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Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The University of Nebraska at Kearney is seeking to hire a tenure-track Assistant Professor, Political Science. The position would begin in Fall 2026. The successful applicant will demonstrate ...

... Political Science and/or Government is required. Preferred: Relevant teaching experience within a community college setting is preferred. General Knowledge, Skills and Abilities The Adjunct Assistant ...

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number F1051P Position Title Assistant Professor ... D. in Political Science or Government to support the growth and development of our Political ...

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Assistant Professor Political Science information

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$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 some typical challenges Assistant Professors in 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 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 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.

More about Assistant Professor Political Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:
What states have the most Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Assistant/ Associate Professor of Political Science/American Politics

Assistant/ Associate Professor of Political Science/American Politics

Morgan State University

Baltimore, MD

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Posting Summary
Job Title Assistant/ Associate Professor of Political Science/American Politics Division Divison of Academic Affairs Department Department of Political Science & International Studies Work Status Full Time Position Category Faculty Faculty Rank Open Rank FLSA Pay Range Salary Range Assistant Professor $75,000 - $120,000; Associate Professor $80,000 - $130,000 based on discipline Fund Source State Support Job Summary
This hire is for an Assistant Professor or Tenured Associate Professor of Political Science with a focus on American Government and Politics, to begin in Fall 2026. The subfield is open to any area of American Government and Politics, and the successful candidate should be able to teach upper level and lower-level undergraduate political science courses. The successful candidate should also be able to teach political science qualitative and quantitative methods at the undergraduate level and play a role in developing graduate programs. Preferred ability to teach some combination of- black politics, courses in race, ethnicity and politics; public policy; state and local government; urban politics, political behavior. This person will also be responsible for initiating and participating in student centered activities. The successful candidate will pursue an active research agenda and should have a publication record commensurate with rank. These responsibilities will enhance our department's mission which is to-"Provide students with an excellent undergraduate education that will empower and prepare them with the skills and knowledge to lead the world."
Job Duties
Develop and teach undergraduate and (occasionally) graduate political science courses; post grades in Canvas; and submit reports, midterm grades, final grades in a timely manner.
Initiate and participate in student centered activities; advise and mentor students; hold regular office hours to aid and increase the opportunities for student success
Contribute to the research and scholarship opportunities that will enhance the research efforts of the Department of Political Science and Economics
Pursue an active research agenda, researching and publishing in area of expertise
Actively participate in discipline by attending conferences, collaborating with colleagues and disseminating research
Provide service to the department, college, university, community and profession that contributes to the mission of the Department and the University
Attend departmental faculty meetings and serve on departmental committees as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Characteristics
Ability to use a computer with knowledge of Canvas and/or other Learning Management Systems
Required Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Political Science or Related Field
  • Record of research and publication and the execution of a research agenda appropriate for rank
  • Demonstrated teaching excellence
  • Commitment to working with an ethnically and culturally diverse student population

Other Preferences for Consideration
  • Experience teaching a variety of courses at the college level - research methods, American politics at upper levels, Black politics
  • Experience Initiating student-centered programs
  • Established and ongoing record of scholarly research and publishing as appropriate for rank
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number FA00418 Number of Vacancies 1 Job Open Date 02/17/2026 Best Consideration Date 03/28/2026 Job Close Date Special Instructions to Applicant
Teaching Philosophy
Research Statement