Assistant Professor of Urban Planning

Position Title:

Assistant Professor of Urban Planning

Compensation:

$70,000 - $75,000

Department:

Urban Planning

Start Date:

08/01/2027

About this opportunity:

The Department of Urban Planning in the Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning is hiring a tenure track Assistant Professor of Urban Planning, starting August of 2027. Applicants with a wide variety of areas of expertise in the specialization are invited to apply. Core areas of teaching and research specialization may include but are not limited to economic development topics (workforce development, firm retention and attraction) and community development (community development corporations, organizing, neighborhood-based revitalization). We are seeking a teacher-scholar committed to the advancement of research, education, the discipline and practice of urban planning, and service to the university and community.

Employer will consider sponsorship.

What you'll do and what you will bring:

Duties and Responsibilities:  Major responsibilities will include: 1) The production of scholarly contributions adequate for advancing a significant research agenda in the fields of community development or economic development. 2) Teaching core undergraduate and graduate lectures, seminars, and studios on either community development planning, or economic development planning as well as electives in areas of faculty specialty. 3) Service to the community, university, college and department.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in Urban Planning or an allied field. ABD will be considered provided all degree requirements are met by date of appointment.
• Demonstrated research and teaching focus in community-economic development as evidenced by statements of research and teaching. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Evidence of excellence teaching lecture, seminar and studio courses at the undergraduate and master's levels.
• Strong research and scholarly agenda that is commensurate with requirements for tenure. 
• Research or teaching interest in planning in small cities, and/ or legacy cities. 
• Interest in teaching in the ECAP interdisciplinary design-focused first-year undergraduate program. 
• AICP certification. 
  

How to apply:

To complete this application, please have ready your cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy, and a research statement. NOTE: Do not use the Autofill feature for completion of application.

Questions about this position should be directed to Dr. John H. West, chair of the department, at planning@bsu.edu

This vacancy will be posted until the position is filled. Top consideration will be given to candidates whose applications are received by Dec. 4, 2026.

What we offer:

At Ball State University, we understand the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. That's why we offer 12 paid sick days and 10 holidays a year. Plus, our paid parental leave (6 weeks) is there for life's most significant moments. We offer affordable health and dental insurance, robust long-term disability and life insurance plans, as well a range of retirement benefits to provide financial security to you and your family. These benefits ensure that you can focus on your work and personal growth without worrying about the unexpected.

When you work for us, you are family. And to show our support of your family, we will cover 90 percent of your child's (or children's) undergraduate college tuition at Ball State. This offer is good from the very first day you start. It's just one way we do our part to uplift you.

Let's fly together toward a secure and prosperous tomorrow.

Curious about our excellent benefits package?

We have developed a calculator that shows you the value of our core benefits.

Select the Total Compensation Calculator - Faculty and download our calculator spreadsheet.

Relocation Program: MakeMyMove

 

Looking for a place where your career, community, and quality of life can grow together? Muncie and Delaware County offer the advantages of a university community with the accessibility and affordability of a mid-sized city—short commutes, local arts and culture, parks and trails, educational opportunities, healthcare, athletics, and a strong sense of connection.

Through the City of Muncie’s MakeMyMove program, eligible new residents may access relocation incentives, university-related benefits, co-working options, and community-building opportunities designed to help them get settled and connected.

Current benefits for eligible participants may include:

• Up to $5,000 cash for relocation

• Co-working space courtesy of The Innovation Connector
• Access to the Ball State University Library
• One-semester Rec Fit pass at Ball State University
• Discounted Ball State Athletics tickets
• Help desk for connecting to local resources
• Opportunity for board participation
• Six-month YMCA membership

Relocation programs on MakeMyMove have specific eligibility requirements, and benefits may vary by program. Applicants should review the current MakeMyMove page to confirm eligibility, available benefits, and program status.

Ball State’s support for relocation resources and community partnerships aligns with Destination 2040: Our Flight Path, the University’s strategic plan. The plan calls our University to work with community partners to promote talent attraction and retention, foster economic growth in East Central Indiana, and strengthen the economic and social vitality of the communities we serve.

Explore the program and check your eligibility through MakeMyMove.