POSITION:

Western Colorado University invites applications for a tenure-track full time faculty position (Assistant Professor level) in Sociology and Criminal Justice to serve students interests in criminal justice, criminology, law enforcement and crisis response, social services, and applied social research. Teaching responsibilities would include courses in sociology of drug use, general sociology, deviance, criminology, criminal justice, corrections, juvenile delinquency, and equitable practices in the criminal justice system. Other courses could be included in the teaching load based on need and qualifications. The successful candidate will teach a 4/4 load. Strong commitment to effective teaching, advising, service and professional development is expected. Primary obligations of this position are in-person and on-campus.

The Sociology Program at Western has approximately 60 majors, and students have the opportunity to earn a standard degree in Sociology; a majority of undergraduate Sociology students pursue the Emphasis in Criminal Justice within the major. For more information, visit https://western.edu/program/sociology/. This tenure-track position may entail developing new curricula with emphasis on health and disability services in the justice system, re-entry and recidivism, and improving public health and safety in rural communities of the Rocky Mountain region. The successful candidate may also have the opportunity to teach and supervise graduate students in our Master of Behavioral Science in Rural Community Health program. This position aligns with Sociology s longstanding focus on equitable practices and criminal justice reform, and it is intended to deepen students understanding of how mental health, disabilities, and criminal justice intersect.

Western s department of Behavioral and Social Sciences provides a supportive, compassionate, and multi-disciplinary environment for dedicated professionals who are committed to living in the rural Rocky Mountains. The successful applicant will help to nurture an interdisciplinary culture in the Behavioral & Social Sciences department and will contribute to Western s mission and strategic plan, which includes promoting mental health for all, collegiality, student mentorship, inclusive and interdisciplinary teaching, professional pathways, and growing enrollment. The department also offers an MBS degree in Rural Community Health, which provides additional opportunities for teaching and collaboration.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A terminal doctoral degree from a regionally-accredited university in Criminology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Justice Studies, Social Psychology, Sociology of Law, or related field is required. Applicants who are not finished with their doctorate must be demonstrably on track to complete it prior to the start date. Applicants must provide evidence of their commitment to undergraduate education, excellence in teaching, and willingness to be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse student population. Candidates must also be able to use technology in instructional delivery, including ability to occasionally teach online and hybrid courses. Collegiality and professional flexibility are characteristic of the department and would be sought in the successful candidate.

SALARY/BENEFITS:

$60,000-$62,000 annualized salary. Pending availability of funds, this position s starting salary may receive additional support from a grant-funded annual stipend. Western offers an excellent benefits package including shared premiums for a comprehensive health insurance plan, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and other insurance options. After one year of employment, Western provides free tuition for dependents enrolled full time in undergraduate programs for up to four years. Western has acquired local rental agreements for newly hired employees moving to the Gunnison Valley, which c n serve as bridge housing. Upon hire, contact information for housing opportunities will be provided by the Human Resources department.

START DATE:

August 2025

APPLICATION:

Apply online at www.western.edu/jobs. Required attachments to the application include: a formal letter of application/interest, curriculum vitae, transcripts, teaching evaluations, statement of teaching philosophy, diversity statement, and a reference list with names and contact information of three references.

Direct all inquiries to Dr. Matt Aronson (970) 943-7126 or maronson@western.edu

Screening of applications will begin immediately.

Note: If transcripts are required for your application, you may redact information that identifies your age, date of birth, dates of attendance, or graduation from the educational institution. If a degree is required for employment, official transcripts (unopened or delivered directly to HR) are required upon hire; copies/scans submitted during application will not serve the purpose of official transcripts upon hire.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

January 15, 2024 at 11:59PM (MST)

Additional Information on Western and Gunnison/CB