Instructor​/Assistant Professor of History and Political Science

Location: Goodwell

Job Summary

The Instructor/Assistant Professor of History and Political Science is responsible for teaching undergraduate courses in history and political science, advising students, and contributing to the academic mission of Oklahoma Panhandle State University. This position plays a key role in advancing student success, retention, and completion through high-quality instruction, engaged collaboration, and data-informed practices. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching, continuous improvement, and scholarly or professional engagement while supporting OPSU's mission and strategic priorities.

This role contributes to a student-centered learning environment that prepares students for success in a global community.

Start date:

August 15, 2026

Responsibilities

* Teach a full load of undergraduate courses (27-30 credit hours per academic year) in history and political science, including general education courses such as American History and American Government and upper-division courses.

* Deliver instruction in face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats as needed.

* Develop, update, and maintain course syllabi in alignment with university standards and learning outcomes.

* Utilize a variety of instructional strategies to support diverse learning styles and promote student engagement.

* Provide timely feedback, maintain accurate records, and adhere to university grading and attendance policies.

* Advise and mentor students in academic planning, degree completion, and career pathways.

* Monitor student progress and utilize institutional tools to identify at-risk students and provide appropriate interventions.

* Support student success initiatives aligned with institutional retention and completion goals.

* Engage in scholarly, research, and/or creative activities appropriate to the discipline.

* Participate in professional development activities to maintain disciplinary expertise and instructional effectiveness.

* Maintain faculty credentials and document professional activities in institutional systems.

* Serve on departmental, college, and university committees.

* Support departmental programs, student organizations, and co-curricular activities.

* Participate in recruitment, outreach, and community engagement efforts to support enrollment growth and student pipeline development.

* Represent the university in the community and contribute to strengthening institutional identity and partnerships.

* Contribute to program assessment, accreditation, and reporting processes, including HLC and OSRHE requirements.

* Collaborate with instructional design and academic leadership to ensure courses meet quality and compliance standards.

* Participate in faculty meetings, department meetings, and commencement activities.

* Maintain regular communication with students, faculty, and administration.

* Demonstrate professionalism, ethical behavior, and a commitment to a positive academic environment.

* Perform other duties as assigned by the Dean or designee.

* Demonstrate a commitment to student-centered teaching and engaged collaboration.

* Maintain positive and professional relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community partners.

* Support OPSU's mission, vision, and values through daily work and interactions.

* Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and service excellence.

Qualifications

* EDUCATION, TRAINING AND

EXPERIENCE:

Required:

Master's degree in History, Political Science, American Studies or a related field with at least 18 graduate hours in each discipline. Preferred:
Ph.D. or Ed.D. in History, Political Science, American Studies or a related field. Preferred:
Previous collegiate teaching experience and experience with online instruction.

* Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

* Strong organizational and time management skills.

* Ability to engage students and foster an inclusive learning environment.

* Commitment to ethical conduct and professional responsibility.

* Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across disciplines.

About Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU): OPSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is the first public Hispanic Serving Institution in Oklahoma. The university is a baccalaureate degree granting institution located in Goodwell, Oklahoma. Rooted in "Progress through Knowledge," OPSU is committed to promoting excellence in the preparation of students for success in a global community. Our university achieved multiple rankings by the 2023 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings: #3 Best Value Regional Colleges West;

#8 Top Public Colleges for the Western Region; and #17 Best Regional Colleges West. U.S New and World Report also recognized OPSU as one of the top ten universities in Oklahoma, standing out of our affordable tuition rates.