Title: Special Purpose Faculty, Criminal Justice

Application Review Date: 2-1-26

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.

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.

Employment Conditions: Radford University is a comprehensive public university of over 7,800 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 75 bachelor's degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 27 master's programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 21 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master's certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men's and women's varsity athletics. With over 200 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for more than 1,000 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Months per Year: 9

Statement of Economic Interest Required: No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Teaching & Research Faculty

Department: Criminal Justice, Dept of

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Department Contact Name: Lori Elis

Department Contact Phone: 540-831-6326

Department Contact Email: lelis@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university’s policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years’ of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.