Visiting Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

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Full Time Reading, PA, US

30+ days ago Requisition

The Criminal Justice Department at Alvernia University invites applications for a one-year, non-tenure-track Visiting Assistant Professor position for the January 2027 academic year, with the possibility of renewal. The position is housed within the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences.

Criminal Justice is one of the university's longest-standing programs and is supported by strong complementary disciplines, including social work, addictions and mental health treatment, psychology, forensic science, political science, and cybersecurity. The department benefits from robust partnerships with local agencies and a dedicated crime investigation house that supports interprofessional, hands-on simulations.

Alvernia prepares both residential undergraduate students and adult learners for a wide range of careers through a strong foundation in theory paired with experiential learning opportunities that develop practical and professional skills.

The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and a record of scholarly engagement appropriate to experience. This position is primarily focused on in-person instruction within the university's traditional undergraduate program, with an emphasis on active student engagement and presence on campus.

The College particularly welcomes candidates with:

• Ability to teach courses such as writing for criminal justice professionals, research methods, corrections, probation and parole, and law enforcement
• A commitment to developing student-centered programming and experiential learning opportunities
• Interest in fostering partnerships with community agencies and organizations
• A demonstrated commitment to mission, diversity, equity, and inclusion

The standard teaching load is 4/4. The successful candidate will:

• Teach in-person undergraduate courses across the curriculum, from introductory to capstone levels
• Potentially teach a section of the First-Year Search Seminar in the fall semester, as a part of the contractual load
• Actively contribute to the life of the department through student advising, mentorship, and engagement in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, including career exploration events and partnerships with local agencies
• Support the department’s strong emphasis on service, community engagement, and student development

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice or a closely related field or provide evidence that the degree will be completed by August 15, 2026.

Alvernia University is an equal opportunity employer. Employees are expected to promote Franciscan ideals and advance the University's mission through a commitment to service, respect for all, intellectual curiosity, innovation, and mutual accountability. All members of the community share responsibility for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Applications received by September 15 will receive full consideration. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

About Alvernia University

Alvernia University is a Franciscan Catholic institution located in Reading, Pennsylvania, founded in 1958 by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. The university serves approximately 3,000 students across its main campus, branch campuses, and online programs.

Alvernia offers a distinctive blend of a rigorous liberal arts education, strong professional preparation, experiential learning opportunities, and a deep commitment to community engagement rooted in Franciscan values. The University has been recognized as a Best National University by U.S. News & World Report (2024), a College of Distinction, and one of Money Magazine's Best Colleges (2024).

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