Assistant Lecturer of Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies (Child Life)

About this opportunity

The Department of Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies welcomes applications for a full-time, on-campus, 10-month / academic year, Assistant Lecturer position beginning Fall 2026. This is a one-year contract faculty appointment, renewable for up to two additional years following the initial term.

Candidates for searches must have current authorization to be employed in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Position Function

This position is a campus-based teaching role with responsibilities centered in the Child Life concentration. Primary duties include teaching undergraduate courses related to child life, along with one or more of the following areas: infant and child development; infant and child mental health; prosocial development; parenting; family wellness; family stress and resilience; family systems; family relationships; and other topics related to children and families.

Duties / Responsibilities

The standard teaching load is typically four courses in the fall and spring semesters, delivered primarily face-to-face on campus, with the possibility of additional online instruction as needed.

In addition to teaching, the Assistant Lecturer will provide academic advising to Child Life students, supervise child life practicum and internship placements, serve on the Ball State Child Life Advisory Board, and engage in service to the department, college, and university.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Master's degree in child life or a related program from an accredited institution; active certification as a Certified Child Life Specialist by the Association of Child Life Professionals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a clinical setting as a practicing Certified Child Life Specialist; experience teaching undergraduate students in online and face-to-face modalities; a record of successful teaching in the area of child life, child development, or related topics; experience collaborating with hospitals, programs, and departments; membership and or participation in professional child life organizations; effective oral and written communication skills.