Application now open for 2026-27 Professional Improvement Leave

Auburn University’s Sabbatical Program, outlined in the Faculty Handbook (Chapter 3, Section 8: “Professional Improvement Leave”), provides tenured faculty the opportunity to pursue meaningful professional growth that enhances both individual scholarship and the university’s mission.

The Office of the Provost is now accepting proposals for these opportunities beginning fall semester 2026.

Sabbatical opportunities are designed to support focused professional development experiences that strengthen teaching, research and service. Preference will be given to long-serving faculty who (1) have had few or no sabbatical leaves during their Auburn tenure, (2) present a well-defined professional development plan directly tied to their academic discipline and (3) plan to complete their sabbatical at another institution, laboratory or agency external to Auburn.

Faculty are encouraged to apply and provide a three-page proposal by Nov. 21. Proposals will be reviewed by a faculty committee appointed by the provost.