An associate professor in the Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes Department was arrested last week.
The school's police chief, Benjamin Newman, said the altercation took place outside a classroom in an engineering building. The student didn't suffer injuries that required medical attention.
The 54-year-old faculty member has posted a $160 cash bond. A representative with the school has declined to comment on the incident, citing personnel privacy.
Newman said the case has been referred to the Jackson County State's Attorney's Office.