Rosenberg's academic career began at FIU in 1976 as an assistant professor of political science.^[7] In 1979, he founded the FIU Latin American and Caribbean Center, a National Center on Latin America, designated by the US Department of Education, funded by Title VI, recognizing it as one of the top Latin American and Caribbean Centers in the country.^[8] Rosenberg subsequently served as the Founding Dean of the College of Urban and Public Affairs and Vice Provost for International Studies. He has also been a Visiting Distinguished Research Professor at The Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, and a visiting professor at the Instituto Tecnologico de Monterrey (ITESM) in Mexico.

Rosenberg suddenly resigned from the university effective January 21, 2022, citing deteriorating health conditions of his wife. Just a week later it was revealed that he stepped down because he had made advances to a younger female employee, "causing discomfort," and creating a hostile work environment.^[9] One woman who worked closely with Rosenberg told a colleague that Rosenberg had harassed her for months, triggering an investigation.^[10] He was succeeded by Kenneth A. Jessell, previously FIU's Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration.^[11]