Assistant Prof. of Political Science and Director Pre-Law Program

Job

Position Classification: FT Faculty UDMPU (9 months)

The Department of Political Science at the University of Detroit Mercy invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Political Science, with specialization in Legal Studies or Judicial Politics, to begin August 2026.

Candidate responsibilities will include teaching courses in Legal Studies and Judicial Studies; possible teaching assignments include Supreme Court, American Political Institutions, contract law, property law, family law, torts, law and culture, arbitration and mediation/alternative dispute settlement, and law and society.

Teaching load is 18 credit hours (6 courses) per academic year for faculty with an active research agenda. The successful candidate will assume directorship of the Pre‑Law Program and participate in professional development activities related to teaching and student advising. The candidate will be expected to engage in research and scholarship related to political science, legal or judicial studies, and to provide service to the department, Pre‑Law program, College, and university.

• A PhD in Political Science. Advanced ABDs will be considered but must have their PhD in Political Science completed within one year of hire.
• Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching (teaching evaluations) and a commitment to experiential learning.
• Evidence of active engagement with research and scholarship demonstrated by presentations at conferences, publications, moot court participation, or membership in professional organizations.

• Candidates with a Ph.D. in Political Science who also have a JD are preferred and encouraged to apply.
• Candidates with experience in directing a pre‑law program, or other demonstrated service or leadership are preferred.
• A track record of research achievement including a current research plan in Political Science, Legal Studies or Judicial Studies is preferred.
• Strong commitment to teaching diverse students.

Job may require lifting light weight objects (1 to 10 pounds) with no repetitive bending or stooping. Occasionally lift average weight objects (1 to 10 pounds).

Regular exposure to favorable conditions such as those found in a normal office.

Commensurate with experience.

TBD.

• Medical – Three health plans to choose from with a large national provider network.
• Dental – Option to purchase additional dental plan through Sun Life. Dental care is available at the School of Dentistry to the employee, spouse or legally domiciled adult and dependents.
• Vision – Option to purchase additional vision plan through Heritage. Vision benefits available at Detroit Mercy Eye Institute.
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options.
• Employee Assistance Program – Provided to everyone in your household.
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability.
• Life and AD&D – One times base salary up to a hundred thousand dollars.
• Option to purchase additional life insurance, accident insurance, and/or critical illness insurance.
• Tuition Remission Benefit for you, spouse, and children.
• Retirement Plan – Employees have a choice of the following:
  • Employees who contribute 3% shall receive an employer contribution of 9%.
  • Employees who contribute 5% shall receive an employer contribution of 10%.

University of Detroit Mercy is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer with a diverse student body and welcomes persons of all backgrounds.