What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Professor (or Professor of Practice) in Computer Science position at Missouri Western State University?
Position Information
Position Title
Assistant Professor (or Professor of Practice) in Computer Science
Department
Computer Science, Math & Physics
Appointment
9 Months
Tenure Status
Tenure Track
FLSA
Exempt
Job Summary
Position Summary
The Department of Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics (CSMP) at Missouri Western State University (MoWest) invites applications for an Assistant Professor or Professor of Practice in Computer Science, beginning August 2026.
We’re seeking an innovative educator and industry-connected practitioner eager to shape the next generation of computing professionals. The ideal candidate will be an engaging and student-focused teacher who brings real-world perspective into the classroom and contributes to the continued growth and evolution of our Computer Science program.
About the Role
In this role, you’ll play a key role in advancing Missouri Western’s mission as the state’s applied learning university. You’ll help design and deliver hands-on, project-based learning experiences that prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape a forward-looking curriculum, mentor students in applied research and innovation, and connect academia with industry practice.
You’ll have access to the state-of-the-art Houlne Center for Convergent Technology, a dynamic hub for collaboration across computing, engineering, cybersecurity, and data science. The Center serves as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application—bringing together students, faculty, and industry partners to solve meaningful challenges through convergent technology.
About the Department
The Department of CSMP at MoWest currently offers the following programs:
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Cybersecurity
Areas of Interest
The area of specialization is open, but we are particularly interested in candidates with expertise or emerging scholarship in foundational and frontier areas of computer science, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking
- Data Science and Analytics
- Software Engineering and DevOps
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Cloud Computing and Distributed Systems
- Internet of Things (IoT) and Embedded Systems
- Quantum and Edge Computing
Essential Job Duties
- Demonstrate disciplinary and professional expertise, with commitment to staying current in emerging and foundational areas of computer science (e.g., software development, AI, data analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity)
- Develop, maintain, and teach courses in the department’s undergraduate programs using a student-centered, applied learning approach.
- Contribute to program development and engage in curriculum development and academic program innovation.
- Application of experiential learning and real-world computer science skills
- Engage in meaningful service, including committee participation and community or industry outreach
- Mentor and advise students on academic and professional matters
- Other reasonable duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, data science, information technology, artificial intelligence, or a closely related field.
- Industry experience in a computer science-related role, with demonstrated experience in areas such as software development, artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing, or cybersecurity.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree or higher in computer science, data science, information technology, artificial intelligence, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated ability and/or strong interest in applying industry knowledge to teaching.
- Prior experience in program development in aligning industry standards to training the workforce.
- Record of professional engagement.
- Familiarity with instructional technologies (online & hybrid formats)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
We’re looking for an inspirational, collaborative colleague who:
- Thrives on mentoring students and helping them bridge classroom concepts with professional practice.
- Brings industry experience or strong industry connections that enhance student learning and program relevance.
- Enjoys developing innovative curriculum and interdisciplinary projects aligned with real-world technological needs.
- Embraces applied learning, community engagement, and MoWest’s commitment to “education that works.”
Physical Demands
Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
Additional Demands
May require some evenings.
University
Designated as the State of Missouri’s applied learning institution, Missouri Western State University is a public open-access institution located in St. Joseph, Missouri, on a beautiful 744-acre campus approximately 35 minutes north of the Kansas City International Airport. With 4,500 plus graduate and undergraduate students and over 29,000 alumni, Missouri Western is designated as a First-Gen Forward campus dedicated to academic innovation, regional and community partnerships, and a student-centered experience.
Missouri Western State University is an active participant in the educational, economic, cultural, and social development of the people and region it serves, and the campus’ distinctive focus on applied learning and research is a hallmark of its innovative teaching and learning environment. Missouri Western seeks to build an inclusive environment that is open, welcoming, and supportive of individuals of all backgrounds. We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups and women to apply for this position.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
F046P
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
08/24/2026
Open Date
11/12/2025
Priority Deadline
01/19/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions Summary