Sweet Briar is a liberal arts college for women with a long history of forging female leaders. Sweet Briar College is repeatedly named by US News and World Report as one of the most innovative liberal arts colleges in the nation. Sweet Briar College is growing rapidly, attracting students who are drawn to it for its excellent liberal arts program, coupled with distinctive programs in women's leadership, engineering, sustainability, arts, and its legendary equestrian program.
The College boasts a modern core curriculum focused on women's leadership in the 21st century and undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities, as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching. It is one of only two women’s colleges in the United States with an ABET-accredited engineering degree. The women’s leadership core curriculum is innovative and energizing.
When students graduate, they are persuasive communicators who know how to think on their feet and bring people together. No matter what they study or where they go, Sweet Briar women are prepared to lead. The campus community is a family of faculty, staff, coaches, and alumnae who support and encourage students and each other. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 8 to 1, students lead research, ask questions, and forge supportive relationships with faculty that can last for decades.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Sweet Briar College is committed to enhancing our community and encourages applications from qualified individuals with varied backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints who would strengthen the College.
Job Title: Assistant Professor of Political Science
Classification: Full-time, benefits eligible, tenure-track faculty position
Reports To: Social Sciences and Humanities Division Head
Job Summary/Objective:
Sweet Briar College invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Political Science with a specialization in International Relations. We seek an engaging teacher-scholar committed to excellence in undergraduate education who will contribute to our interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum.
The successful candidate will teach a range of introductory and upper-level courses in International Relations, with opportunities to offer classes such as Introduction to International Relations, International Organizations, Global Security, U.S. Foreign Policy, Comparative Politics, and regional studies aligned with the candidate's expertise. The position also offers opportunities to contribute to the broader Political Science curriculum, including Research Methods and Senior Seminar, as well as to Sweet Briar's Women's Leadership Core Curriculum.
The standard teaching load is six courses per academic year. Faculty are expected to develop innovative courses that engage students in contemporary global issues, mentor undergraduate research, advise students, and participate actively in departmental and college service. Candidates who incorporate experiential learning, simulations such as Model United Nations, study abroad, community engagement, or other high-impact practices into their teaching are especially encouraged to apply.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Political Science, or closely related field. ABD candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with the expectationof having a completed Ph.D. degree by August 2027.
- Demonstrated excellence in teaching; Active research agenda and publication record consistent with an assistant professor appointment
- Demonstrated interest in working across disciplines and engaging in collaborative scholarship, teaching, and service; and Excellent communication skills.
How to Apply:
To apply, visit: https://sbc.edu/human-resources/faculty-staff-job-openings/
All applications should include: 1) cover letter; 2) CV; 3) statement on teaching philosophy and research interests; and 4) the names and full contact information for three professional references. The materials should be assembled to a single pdf and loaded into the job application portal. Review of applications will begin on November 2, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
The salary range for this position is $57,000.00- $63,000.00 per year. This is commensurate with education and experience and will be determined in accordance with institutional guidelines.
Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Political Science or a closely related field
- ABD candidates may be considered case by case, with Ph.D. completion expected by August 2027
- Demonstrated excellence in teaching
- Active research agenda and publication record consistent with an assistant professor appointment
- Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and collaborative scholarship, teaching, and service
- Excellent communication skills
What We Do
Sweet Briar College is a private liberal arts and sciences college for women located in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Its mission is to prepare women (and men at the graduate level) to be productive, responsible members of a world community, focusing on personal and professional achievement through a customized educational program that combines the liberal arts and career preparation.
