"Special Purpose Faculty, Criminal Justice"

Job Description

The Department of Criminal Justice at Radford University invites applications for one special purpose (non-tenure track but available for annual reappointment) faculty position beginning in August 2026. The successful candidate will demonstrate evidence of effective teaching. The teaching load is four face-to-face courses in the fall and spring, with additional opportunities for summer teaching. Teaching assignments will include at least one course in the department’s forensic curriculum (Criminal Investigative Theory, Introduction to Forensic Science, and/or Special Topics Seminar in Forensic Studies), at least one course required for the criminal justice major (Introduction to Criminal Justice; Courts and Criminal Process; Police and Society; Corrections; Diversity Issues in Criminal Justice; Crime and Criminal Behavior; Research Methods; Critical Perspectives in Criminal Justice), and potentially other courses within the candidate’s areas of specialization. Service within the department is also expected, and particularly in two areas: leadership of the Forensic Studies minor, including management of the lab and its equipment, student advising, curriculum and course planning, recommending adjunct faculty, and more; and developing and administering career preparedness and professional programs for students, such as mock interviews, externships, career-related activities, speakers and professional programming, or similar activities. Given the duties of this position, there are no expectations for research productivity.

Located in southwest Virginia, Radford University is a co-educational, comprehensive, state-supported institution with an emphasis on teaching, focused on life-long learning and excellence in education. Small classes allow faculty opportunities to connect with students in an academic environment that is both challenging and enriching. The Department of Criminal Justice has more than 300 undergraduate majors and a thriving minor in Forensic Studies which develops students’ creative and critical thinking skills through the examination of key issues in the field of forensic studies, with particular attention devoted to the role of the criminal investigator within the criminal justice system. The minor integrates a variety of disciplines across the university, including criminal justice, psychology, biology, chemistry, anthropological sciences, health, and information technology. The Department also offers both a Master’s of Science and post-baccalaureate certificate in Crime Analysis and Criminal Intelligence and an undergraduate minor in Conservation Law Enforcement. Additional information about the Department can be found by visiting our website at: https://www.radford.edu/humanities-behavioral-sciences/criminal-justice-department/index.html Additional information about the University and surrounding area can be found at www.radford.edu.

Required Qualifications

A minimum of a master’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or related field from a regionally accredited institution, college/university teaching experience, and experience in and knowledge of the criminal justice professional community are required for this position. The cover letter should address qualifications and experiences related to the responsibilities outlined above.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants for the position must provide a letter of application that addresses the candidate’s interest in our position, qualifications, and fit with the department; current vita; statement of teaching and learning philosophy, specifically focused on the position requirements; evidence of teaching effectiveness, such as student or peer evaluations; all academic transcripts; and the names and contact information for three references. Questions can be sent via email to the search committee chair: Dr. Lori Elis (lelis@radford.edu), Department of Criminal Justice, Radford University. Review of application materials will begin February 1, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

Posted: 08-Jan-26

Location: VA

Type: Full-time

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Work Authorization: Radford University employs individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States. Applicants requiring new H-1B visa sponsorship will not be considered.

Months per Year: 9

Salary: Commensurate with experience