Position Summary
The primary location of this position is the main Cullowhee, NC campus. The School of Health Sciences invites applications for a nine-month, tenure track position in the Health Sciences Program with expertise and interest in health education. This is a full-time appointment with the rank of Assistant Professor. Preferred start date is January 1, 2026, with consideration for August 1, 2026. Salary is commensurate with academic qualifications and experience for a regional comprehensive university. Opportunities for summer teaching are available. Responsibilities of the position include: (1) teaching undergraduate and graduate courses that support the Health Sciences curriculum and general education courses; (2) advising and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in collaboration with the Advising Center; (3) providing meaningful service to the university, profession, and community; and (4) pursuing a well-defined scholarly/research agenda. We seek candidates who demonstrate their ability to work with, and be sensitive to the educational needs of, first generation, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and rural populations; and support the University’s commitment to Honoring Our Promise . The Health Sciences program holds inclusive excellence as a core value, and we work together to foster a welcoming community, where all are respected and know they belong. The Health Sciences program is housed in the 160,000 square foot, state-of-the-art Health and Human Sciences Building and is part of the robust and engaged School of Health Sciences. The Health Sciences program consists of a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Health Sciences and a master’s degree in Health Sciences. The Integrated Health Sciences ( IHS ) Program is a 120-credit hour, residential, program designed for students who have a broad-based interest in the health field with concentrations in Pre-Professional, Management, and Health & Wellness. This innovative and flexible program of study is intended to equally serve entry-level and transfer students. More information about the program can be found on the website: ihs.wcu.edu The Master of Health Sciences ( MHS ) program, designed for the working professional, is a 100% online graduate degree program that prepares future health organization managers and educators. The MHS program offers concentrations in Emergency Medical Care, Health Education, Health Management and Nutrition & Dietetics/Dietetic Internship. More information about the program can be found on the website: mhs.wcu.edu . The School of Health Sciences offers undergraduate programs in Emergency Medical Care, Environmental Health, Integrated Health Sciences, Nutrition & Dietetics, and Recreational Therapy. Graduate programs include the Master of Science in Athletic Training and the Master of Health Sciences. Additional programs within the College of Health and Human Sciences include Communication Sciences and Disorders, Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Social Work. A collaborative environment conducive to interdisciplinary teaching, scholarship and service exists within the School and College of Health and Human Sciences. Western North Carolina’s rural, ageing, and medically underserved population and location provides numerous and rich opportunities for community partnerships, collaborative research, and grant acquisition. More information on the school can be found on the website: hs.wcu.edu and information on the College can be found on the website: chhs.wcu.edu . Western Carolina University is a regional comprehensive university with more than 12,000 students with its main campus located in Cullowhee, NC. Part of our mission is to inspire student learning through innovative teaching, nationally recognized programs, exceptional support, and a robust connectedness with surrounding communities in Southern Appalachia, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The county and surrounding areas provide residents a high quality of life with their proximity to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, diverse outdoor adventures, a thriving arts community, and mild year-around temperatures.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctoral degree in health education, health promotion, community health, public health, or closely related field from a regionally accredited institution ( ABD candidates will be considered with degree conferral by December 2025 for a January start or May 2026 for an August start) with a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline. Evidence of teaching experience in the discipline. Evidence of scholarly activity and a research agenda. Evidence of service to the profession or community.
Preferred Qualifications
Credentials or certifications in health education specialties.