Visiting Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice - 1 year

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.

Preferred Qualifications and Areas of Interest 

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

Responsibilities 

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

Eligibility

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).

To Apply 

Candidates should submit:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy for in-person classes with undergraduate students
• Contact information for three professional references (references will be contacted only for finalists)

Employee Benefits:

Join a team that values your well-being! We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family:

• Robust Health Coverage: Choose from three offered medical plans, plus dental and vision.
• Financial Security: Enjoy University-paid life/AD&D insurance and long-term disability, with options for short-term disability and supplemental coverage for you and your family (including accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans). Flexible spending accounts are also available.
• Exceptional Retirement: Start saving immediately with our 403(b) Retirement Plan. You'll get 100% immediate vesting, a University gift contribution, and a generous match up to 5% of your deferrals.
• Time Off: Take advantage of 18 paid holidays each year.
• Invest in Your Future: Enjoy tuition remission benefits for yourself and your dependents.
• On-Campus Wellness: Benefit-eligible employees on our main campus receive free access to our Medical & Counseling Center.
• Employee Meal Plan: This plan provides convenient, flexible dining options on campus at a reduced cost.