Assistant Professor of Exercise Science

msudenver; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Metropolitan State University of Denver invites applications for a tenure-track position in the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences. This nine-month faculty contract begins Fall 2027 and will contribute to the CA AHEP-accredited Exercise Science program.

The ideal candidate specializes in wellness/behavior modification or sport/exercise/physical activity psychology. Teaching includes Stress Management, Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity, and related courses; must teach in classroom,

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Sport Psychology or related discipline; degree conferred before Aug 2027.
• Teaching experience in higher education.
• Professional experience in the exercise industry.

Responsibilities

• Teach 12 credit hours per semester of undergraduate coursework.
• Advise students.
• Provide academic service to the department, college, university and profession.
• Engage in scholarly activities appropriate to the discipline.

Skills

Teaching experience

Higher education teaching

Exercise science industry experience

Education

Doctorate in Kinesiology/Exercise Science/Exercise Physiology/Sport Psychology

Job description

Department

Human Performance & Sports

About the University

Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University ( MSU Denver ) was founded to serve students who were underrepresented in higher education whose life paths and experiences did not fit the traditional mold. Sixty years later, the University continues to serve over 16,000 of Colorado's extraordinary and diverse students, providing them with the foundation on which to build their unique aspirations. As the third largest public institution of higher education in Colorado, MSU Denver is a model university for today's college students.

Proud of its federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution that also offers graduate programs (gHSI) and the only Seal of Excelencia certified institution in Colorado, the University serves the most diverse undergraduate student population in the state, as well as the most first-generation students. Through affordable, flexible, and holistic education, MSU Denver helps students build essential skills grounded in a multicultural and global perspective that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees, and career and life success.

At MSU Denver, we are committed to our CADRE values: Community, Access, Diversity, Respect, and Excellence. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all community members are valued and belong. Our dedication to breaking down barriers to education, fostering open dialogue, and promoting world-class scholarship ensures that we provide exceptional services and innovative learning opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff.

About the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences

The Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences (ESS) offers undergraduate degrees in Exercise Science and Sport Management. Our Sport Management program is accredited by COSMA , and our Exercise Science program is accredited by CAAHEP-CoAES and recognized by the NSCA 's ERP program for Strength and Conditioning. We are comprised of 12 full time faculty members, three staff members and a group of dedicated affiliate/adjunct faculty. We value and maintain a collaborative and inclusive team environment. The Department of ESS supports well equipped labs and we pride itself on outstanding teaching, quality applied research and a learn by doing philosophy.

Position Summary

The Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences at MSU Denver invites applications for a tenure track position. This is a nine month faculty contract beginning Fall 2027. The successful candidate will become an integral member of our CAAHEP-accredited Exercise Science program.

For this position, the ideal candidate will be a specialist in the area of wellness/behavior modification or sport/exercise/physical activity psychology. Teaching responsibilities include, but are not limited to, Stress Management; Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity, Exercise and Sport; Fitness and Exercise Coaching; Community Fitness Programs; and Physical Fitness Techniques and Programs.

Candidates will be expected to teach in the classroom, laboratory, and/or virtual setting and must be able to use and apply current technologies in the classroom. In addition, the successful candidates will be expected to advise and mentor undergraduate students, provide service to the department, school, university and profession, assume active roles in appropriate professional organizations, engage in scholarship activities, and supervise student fieldwork experiences. This position requires presence in Colorado on MSU Denver's Auraria campus for in person teaching and other activities.

MSU Denver has a robust mentoring program for tenure-track faculty. The candidate will be enrolled in the Roadrunner Faculty Academy during their first year. This is a year-long course designed to support new faculty navigate faculty life and thrive in teaching, scholarly activity and service.

Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Teaching 12 credit hours per semester of undergraduate coursework
• Advising students
• Providing academic service to the department, college, university, and community/profession
• Engaging in scholarly activities appropriate to the discipline

Required Qualifications

Doctorate in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Sport Psychology or a related discipline. While ABD candidates are encouraged to apply, the degree must be conferred prior to the start date in August 2027

Teaching experience in higher education

Professional experience in the exercise industry

Preferred Qualifications

Professional experience in wellness/behavior modification; exercise promotion; or telemedicine/health-related data analysis

Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching

Experience teaching in health/wellness and/or behavior change discipline.

Involvement as a member of national/international professional associations related to exercise, health, and/or wellness

Certification from the National Strength & Conditioning