Assistant Professor of Economics and Business

Holding a PhD in economics or related fields stands out as crucial, especially for tenure-track roles. Demonstrated research productivity and the ability to teach courses like macroeconomics and international finance add significant weight, reflecting what top liberal arts colleges prioritize.

Expect to teach around five courses annually, plus advising senior theses, which often counts as an extra teaching load. Simultaneously, maintaining an active research agenda that targets peer-reviewed journals is essential to meet standards at selective institutions like Colorado College.

After establishing a solid research and teaching record, opportunities include promotion to associate or full professor, involvement in academic leadership roles, and potential consultancy work in economic policy or business sectors. The blend of economics and business expertise enhances versatility.

The immersive block plan used in Colorado College demands intense, focused teaching sessions, which differ from traditional semester schedules. This method requires professors to adapt their pedagogy to deliver comprehensive content rapidly while maintaining student engagement.

Divide and the surrounding Colorado Springs area have a moderate demand for economics professors, with liberal arts colleges placing a premium on research-active candidates. While competition exists, fewer institutions use the block plan, making candidates familiar with this approach highly sought after.

Salaries typically range from $65,000 to $85,000 annually, influenced by institutional prestige and teaching load. Given the tenure-track nature and the college’s selective standards, compensation often aligns with national averages for similar liberal arts positions, with possible supplements for research output.

The American Economic Association fosters professional growth by facilitating research networking, access to publications, and academic conferences. For assistant professors, this support can enhance visibility in economics and business disciplines, aiding tenure and promotion prospects.

At the American Economic Association, emphasis is placed on contributing to the broader economics community through research dissemination and policy impact, alongside conventional teaching duties. This dual focus encourages professors to engage beyond campus, influencing economic scholarship nationally.

Indeed, regional economic issues like tourism, energy, and mountain community development offer rich avenues for applied macroeconomic studies. Aligning research with local economic trends can enhance relevance and potential funding opportunities within Colorado’s academic landscape.

A frequent misunderstanding is that teaching alone guarantees tenure; however, maintaining an active, high-quality research agenda is equally critical. Additionally, candidates might underestimate the importance of versatility in teaching subjects such as international finance and intermediate macroeconomics.