Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s society, the role of an adjunct criminal justice professor is becoming increasingly significant.

As the field of criminal justice evolves, the demand for astute minds who can interpret, impart, and advance our understanding of legal systems grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an adjunct criminal justice professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of criminal justice education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we provide a customizable adjunct criminal justice professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors are responsible for providing education in the field of criminal justice, conducting research, and assisting students.

They work part-time and may work at several institutions at once.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver engaging course content in the field of criminal justice
• Assess student’s understanding through assignments, quizzes, and exams
• Provide regular feedback to students to help them improve
• Conduct research in the field of criminal justice and share findings with students and peers
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of criminal justice
• Participate in department meetings and contribute to curriculum development
• Adhere to the institution’s teaching standards and policies
• Mentor and guide students in their academic and career pursuits
• Maintain office hours to be available for student consultation
• Manage grading and reporting of student progress

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor to join our faculty.

You will be responsible for teaching criminal justice courses to undergraduate students, developing lesson plans, and conducting research within the field of criminal justice.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field, as well as teaching experience at the collegiate level.

The Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor will be expected to maintain current knowledge of the subject matter through professional development, involvement in professional organizations, and attending professional meetings, conferences, or workshops.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses in criminal justice
• Develop and implement lesson plans and syllabi
• Assess student performance through grading assignments and exams
• Conduct research within the field of criminal justice
• Attend faculty and department meetings
• Advise students on academic and career matters
• Maintain current knowledge of the subject matter through professional development

 

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related field
• Previous teaching experience at the collegiate level
• Extensive knowledge of criminal justice theories, principles, and practices
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to engage students and create a stimulating learning environment

 

Benefits

• Retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Health and wellness programs

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor
• Work Environment: University campus. Some remote teaching may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Criminal Justice Department.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a statement of teaching philosophy to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Do?

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors typically work in colleges or universities where they offer part-time instruction on criminal justice subjects.

They are responsible for developing and delivering course material in line with the curriculum of the criminal justice program.

This may include designing lectures, organizing discussions, giving assignments, and grading papers or exams.

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors often specialize in specific areas such as criminology, forensics, law enforcement, or corrections.

They must stay updated with the latest developments and trends in their field of expertise.

They may also be required to conduct or contribute to academic research and publish their findings in relevant scholarly journals.

In addition to their teaching responsibilities, adjunct professors often participate in departmental meetings, workshops, and other academic events.

They may also provide career guidance to students interested in pursuing a career in the field of criminal justice.

These professionals must be able to effectively communicate complex concepts and theories to students, and work to inspire and motivate them in their studies.

They may also be responsible for managing online learning platforms if they are teaching remote or online classes.

While the role is part-time, adjunct professors may have the opportunity to transition to full-time positions depending on their performance and the needs of the institution.

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Qualifications and Skills

An Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor is expected to have a range of qualifications and skills to successfully fulfill the role, including:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of criminal justice system, laws, regulations and current industry trends to deliver effective lectures and educational content.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex legal concepts in a clear, concise, and engaging manner that fosters student understanding.
• Research skills to stay updated with the latest developments in the field of criminal justice and law enforcement. This includes scholarly articles, case studies, and legal judgments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, and faculty.
• Proficiency in course planning and curriculum development to meet the learning objectives of the program and the individual needs of the students.
• Experience in utilizing various teaching methodologies and educational technology to enhance the learning experience.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to address student concerns, academic issues and implement necessary course corrections.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively balance teaching, research, and administrative tasks.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback to students on their progress and areas for improvement.
• Master’s degree or higher in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related field.
• Previous teaching experience in a post-secondary institution is preferred.

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Experience Requirements

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors typically have a minimum of a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice or a related field, and many institutions prefer a PhD.

For entry-level positions, these professors usually have about 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through teaching assistantships during their graduate studies or working in the criminal justice system in some capacity.

This practical experience can also be obtained through internships, research work, or other academic roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often honed their teaching skills and developed a deeper understanding of the subject matter by working in roles such as Full-Time Criminal Justice Professor, Legal Researcher, or Criminology Analyst.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience, often having served as a Department Head or Senior Lecturer, and are capable of taking on high-level responsibilities such as curriculum development or leading a research team.

In addition, practical experience in the field of criminal justice, such as working as a law enforcement officer, lawyer, or judge, can be valuable.

Such experience can provide real-world insights that enrich classroom instruction, making these professionals particularly suited for teaching in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, and legal studies.

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Education and Training Requirements

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors are often required to have a doctoral degree in criminal justice or a related field such as criminology, sociology, or law.

Apart from a PhD, some universities may also hire individuals with a master’s degree in criminal justice or a closely related field.

However, these candidates may be required to have substantial professional experience within the criminal justice system, such as former law enforcement officers or legal professionals.

A comprehensive understanding of various aspects of criminal justice including law enforcement, corrections, the court system, and the constitution, is crucial for this role.

They must also be familiar with the latest research and developments in the field of criminal justice.

Teaching experience, especially at the college level, is often preferred.

In addition to the formal education and professional experience, adjunct professors also need to demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to engage students, and a commitment to academic research and continued learning.

Some universities may also require adjunct professors to have published scholarly articles or books in their field.

Although not required, adjunct professors can choose to pursue professional certifications or memberships with professional organizations such as the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) to enhance their credibility and stay updated in their field.

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Salary Expectations

An Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor earns an average salary of $70,580 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary greatly based on the individual’s years of experience, the prestige of the institution, and the geographical location.

 

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor need?

Most institutions require an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor to hold a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice or a closely related field.

However, some institutions may also accept candidates with a Master’s degree along with substantial professional experience in the field of criminal justice.

It is also important for the candidate to have teaching experience.

 

What does a typical day look like for an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor?

Adjunct Criminal Justice Professors typically spend their day teaching classes, preparing course materials, grading student assignments, and conducting research related to their field of expertise.

They may also offer consultation hours for students who need additional assistance.

Depending on the institution, they might be involved in faculty meetings or committees.

 

What skills make an effective Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor?

An Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor should have solid communication skills to effectively convey complex concepts to students.

They should be passionate about educating and should be able to motivate students to learn and engage.

Strong research and analytical skills are important, as is the ability to critically evaluate information and formulate reasoned arguments.

They must also be able to manage their time effectively to balance the demands of teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.

 

What should I look for in an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor resume?

Look for a strong educational background, preferably with a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice.

Check for past teaching experience and any publications in relevant fields.

Professional experience in the criminal justice system is a big plus.

Also, take note of any awards or recognitions, as these can indicate the candidate’s commitment and expertise in their field.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor?

The level of challenge in hiring an Adjunct Criminal Justice Professor can depend on the institution’s location, reputation, and the compensation offered.

Institutions located in urban areas with a high concentration of colleges and universities may find it easier to attract qualified applicants.

It could be more challenging for institutions in remote areas or those offering less competitive compensation packages.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the intricate world of an adjunct criminal justice professor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about teaching.

It’s about shaping the future of criminal justice, one lecture at a time.

Armed with our reliable adjunct criminal justice professor job description template and real-life examples, you’re well equipped to take the next step.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping-stone to creating spot-on job listings or honing your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every lecture you give contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s mold the future of criminal justice. Together.

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