Job description
PRIMARY DUTY:
The School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of History with a specialization in Public History and a demonstrated emphasis in museum studies, to begin January 6, 2026.
We seek a dynamic teacher-scholar committed to undergraduate education, profession-based learning, and community engagement. The successful candidate will lead the university’s undergraduate minor in Public History and Museum Studies and will contribute to the department’s broader curriculum in history.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Teach a 4:4 course load, including introductory and upper-level courses, including graduate level courses, in U.S. history, public history, and the candidate’s area of historical specialization.
- Direct the undergraduate minor in Public History and Museum Studies.
- Supervise and mentor students in hands-on, project-based learning environments.
- Manage and oversee the university’s Public History Lab, including training students in the use of specialized equipment such as dry mount presses.
- Coordinate exhibitions in designated gallery spaces within the Humanities & Social Sciences building.
- Collaborate closely with the university archives and campus museums to support student learning opportunities and community access to these spaces.
- Build and sustain partnerships with regional cultural institutions, including museums, historical societies, and other heritage and tourism organizations.
- Maintain an active program of scholarship in public history and/or the candidate’s field of specialization.
- Participate in departmental, college, and university service.
- Perform other duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS:
Education: Ph.D. in History or related field (ABD considered with completion by May 2027).
Certification/License: N/A
Experience: Prior experience in classroom and online instruction in History
Skills: Demonstrated experience or training in public history, with a focus on museum practice; evidence of effective undergraduate teaching or strong potential for excellence in the classroom; commitment to student mentorship and profession-based learning.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The position entails classroom and/or online instruction in General Education and upper division courses typically ranging from 15 to 60 students. Faculty maintain regular office hours within the department area to support students.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program coordinator for a growing Public History and Museum Studies program
EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS USED:
All classrooms are technology-enhanced (document stations, video equipment, wireless Internet access). Online courses are offered using Canvas, Northwest’s Learning Management System.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Ability to meet essential pedagogical and classroom functions
How to apply
A complete application consists of:
1) a letter describing your teaching experience and suitability for the position;
2) a current curriculum vitae;
3) transcripts; and
4) contact information, including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses, for three references.
INQUIRIES FOR THE POSITION CAN BE MADE TO:
Dr. Dawn Gilley, Discipline Lead
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Northwest Missouri State University
800 University Drive
Maryville, MO 64468
(660) 562-1839
or
Dr. Jessica Gracey, School Chair
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Northwest Missouri State University
800 University Drive
Maryville, MO 64468
(660) 562-1290
