How to Apply for International Faculty Positions in Management: Insights for Applicants with an International Education Perspective

If you’re an educator passionate about teaching in a global context and working in dynamic international environments, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is offering unique faculty opportunities in China. These full-time teaching positions at either Zhengzhou Sias University (Sias) in Henan Province or Shenyang Normal University (SNU) in Liaoning Province provide a chance to engage with diverse student populations while living and working abroad. These international placements are annual, non-tenure-track assignments with options for renewal. If you are considering applying, here are some tips to strengthen your application and prepare for a successful transition to this exciting role:

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Understand the Qualifications and Ensure Eligibility

Minimum Qualifications:

• Academic Credentials: A master’s degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in management or a related discipline from a regionally accredited university is required. Candidates with master’s degrees should also have significant professional experience.
• Teaching Experience: A minimum of 24 months of full-time teaching experience is mandatory.
• Eligibility to Work in the U.S. and China:

– Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States (FHSU does not sponsor U.S. work visas).
– For China, prepare to meet the legal requirements for obtaining a Z visa, work permit, and residence permit. Be aware that Chinese laws include restrictions based on age (generally under 60), health requirements, and background checks. If you have DUI/DWI infractions or other legal issues, you may face obstacles in obtaining a work visa.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A doctoral degree in a related field is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience teaching ESL/EFL or working with international students, particularly Chinese students, is advantageous. Strong cross-cultural communication and teaching skills are ideal.
• Familiarity with learning management systems like Blackboard will be beneficial.

Pro Tip:
Align your application materials with the qualifications. Highlight your teaching achievements, any prior international or cross-cultural experience, and your academic expertise in management areas relevant to the courses you might teach (e.g., Organizational Behavior or Business Ethics).

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Crafting a Strong Application

Required Documents:
Applicants must submit:

1. A cover letter (emphasize your passion for international education, teaching philosophy, and adaptability to a global environment).
2. An up-to-date CV/résumé showcasing your educational qualifications, teaching experience, and any relevant international experience.
3. Names and contact information for three professional references who can vouch for your teaching ability and adaptability.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submit application materials as a single PDF file via the FHSU application portal: FHSU Careers.
• Note: Emailed applications will not be considered. Ensure all required documents are included for your application to be complete.

Pro Tip:
In your cover letter, articulate how your background aligns with the global nature of the role. Mention any experience teaching non-native English speakers, working in diverse cultures, or adapting to different educational systems.

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Preparing for the Transition to China

Visa Process:
FHSU assists with securing Chinese visas and work permits. Be prepared to:

• Authenticate your educational qualifications (document authentication can take time-begin this process early).
• Undergo health screenings to meet Chinese visa requirements.
• Provide a clean criminal background check (pay close attention to any potential disqualifications such as DUI/DWI charges).

Eligibility Reminder:
Applicants over the age of 60 may have difficulty obtaining a Chinese work visa unless under extraordinary circumstances.

Pro Tip:
Start gathering all the necessary documentation (including original diplomas and transcripts) as soon as you apply. Familiarize yourself with China’s work visa requirements to avoid delays.

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Why This Role is an Exciting Opportunity for International Educators

Living and Working Abroad:

• At Sias University: Modern, furnished accommodations include utilities, air conditioning, and Western-style amenities. Families are welcome, and faculty members receive meal stipends, access to dining halls offering Chinese and Western cuisine, fitness facilities, and cultural experiences.
• At SNU: Free furnished housing, a stipend for food, and amenities such as a washing machine and Western-style facilities. The campus also offers a vibrant international community and access to affordable fitness centers.

Professional Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package that includes retirement and health plans.
• Travel perks: FHSU covers transportation to China and provides a $3,000 travel stipend for return trips at the end of the academic year.
• Additional stipends for visa-related expenses.

Pro Tip:
Highlight in your application how you’ll adapt to the international teaching environment. Discuss your openness to engaging with the local culture while using your strong teaching skills to lead dynamic classroom environments.

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Key Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate management courses in English across subjects like Management Principles, International Business, and Organizational Behavior.
• Contribute to the scholarly community through research, publications, and collaboration with Chinese faculty and students.
• Provide service through advising, mentoring, and participation in extracurricular activities.

Pro Tip:
In your application, provide specific examples of how you’ve contributed to student success or collaborated with colleagues in previous roles. If you’ve had prior international teaching or research experience, highlight those achievements prominently.

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Tips for Success in the Application Process

1. Customize Your Application: Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasize your qualifications in teaching management and working in diverse, global environments.
2. Proactively Address Visa Needs: Start a checklist for the required documentation for Chinese visas early. Research how to authenticate your academic credentials for international use.
3. Showcase Cross-Cultural Expertise: Demonstrate how your skills align with the challenges and opportunities of teaching international students in China.
4. Be Flexible and Open-Minded: Highlight your adaptability to new teaching modalities and cultural settings, as FHSU may require teaching in varying formats or locations.

Final Note:
This opportunity isn’t just a teaching position-it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a rapidly growing global education community. By thoughtfully preparing your application and appreciating the nuances of international education, you’ll position yourself as an outstanding candidate for these prestigious roles.

Have additional questions? Contact Dr. Robert Lloyd, Associate Professor and Director of Strategic Partnerships, at ralloyd@fhsu.edu for further insights. Good luck!