Criminal Justice Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving landscape of law and order, the role of a Criminal Justice Professor has never been more essential.

As society grows more complex, so does the need for skilled individuals who can dissect, explain, and educate on the intricacies of our criminal justice system.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Criminal Justice Professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring educator seeking to understand the nuances of this role,
• An academic department head looking to recruit the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of criminal justice education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Criminal Justice Professor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or university career portals.

Let’s delve right into it.

Criminal Justice Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Criminal Justice Professors are educators with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system.

They are responsible for teaching students about various aspects of the system, preparing course materials, and conducting research.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing and implementing curriculum plans for courses related to criminal justice
• Delivering lectures, seminars, and tutorials on various topics within the field
• Preparing course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
• Conducting research in the field of criminal justice and publishing findings in scholarly journals
• Assessing student’s progress by grading papers, exams, and other assignments
• Guiding and mentoring students on their academic journey
• Advising students on career opportunities in the criminal justice field
• Participating in academic events, faculty meetings, and serving on committees
• Keeping up to date with developments in the field of criminal justice
• Contributing to the development of the institution’s standards, policies, and practices

 

Criminal Justice Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly knowledgeable and dynamic Criminal Justice Professor to join our faculty team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching courses in criminal justice, advising students, conducting original research, and participating in departmental and college activities.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in criminal justice, with extensive experience in teaching and research.

They should be passionate about education and have a strong desire to shape future professionals in the criminal justice system.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in criminal justice
• Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
• Conduct research in criminal justice and publish findings in scholarly journals
• Advise students on academic and vocational curricula, and career issues
• Participate in student recruitment, registration, and placement activities
• Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
• Serve on academic or administrative committees that deal with institutional policies, departmental matters, and academic issues

 

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related field
• Previous teaching experience at the university level
• Extensive knowledge in criminal justice theories and practices
• Proven record of research and publications in the field of criminal justice
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals

 

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Criminal Justice Professor
• Work Environment: University campus. Some travel may be required for academic conferences and research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate’s experience, qualifications, and the university’s budget.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our university. 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 list of three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Criminal Justice Professor Do?

A Criminal Justice Professor primarily works in universities and colleges where they instruct students on the intricacies of the criminal justice system.

This can span a wide range of subjects including criminology, criminal law, forensic science, public safety, and corrections.

They are responsible for developing course syllabi, planning lessons, and delivering lectures.

This includes leading discussions, facilitating student learning, and fostering a positive educational environment.

Criminal Justice Professors are also tasked with grading students’ assignments and exams, providing feedback, and offering guidance to students who are struggling academically.

They may also supervise students’ research projects or theses, offering expert advice and direction.

In addition to their teaching duties, these professors often conduct their own research within the field of criminal justice.

They are expected to contribute to the body of knowledge in their field by publishing their research findings in academic journals, presenting at conferences, and participating in scholarly discussions.

Furthermore, a Criminal Justice Professor may also serve on various committees within the university, provide professional consultation services, and participate in community outreach programs related to criminal justice.

They may also be involved in shaping the curriculum and policies related to their department’s criminal justice program.

 

Criminal Justice Professor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Criminal Justice Professor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements, such as:

• Expertise in the field of criminal justice, with a comprehensive understanding of various subfields, including criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and forensic science.
• Advanced research skills to stay updated with the latest trends, findings, and developments in criminal justice and criminology.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey complex concepts, theories, and principles related to criminal justice to students.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with students, engage them in classroom discussions, and guide their academic growth.
• Instructional skills to design comprehensive course curricula, create engaging lesson plans, conduct lectures and seminars, and assess student performance.
• Problem-solving skills to help students understand and apply criminal justice concepts to real-world situations.
• PhD in Criminal Justice or a closely related field, and experience in teaching at the university level is typically required.
• Ability to mentor and guide students with their research projects, dissertations or theses.
• Commitment to adhere to professional ethics and promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in the classroom and on campus.

 

Criminal Justice Professor Experience Requirements

Criminal Justice Professors typically have a significant amount of academic and professional experience before entering into their teaching roles.

The initial experience comes in the form of a doctoral degree in criminal justice or a closely related field.

This doctoral program typically involves multiple years of study, research, and practical training.

Beyond their academic credentials, prospective Criminal Justice Professors often have several years of hands-on experience in the field of criminal justice.

This experience could come in a variety of forms such as serving as law enforcement officers, working in corrections, or being involved in legal practice.

Those aiming for a senior-level teaching position or tenure-track roles typically require a substantial number of years in academia.

This includes experience in teaching at the undergraduate or graduate level, publishing research in peer-reviewed academic journals, and participating in professional organizations.

Moreover, potential candidates with more than 5 years of teaching experience, along with a record of published research, may be in a position to take on departmental leadership roles or other administrative duties within the institution.

Finally, experience with curriculum development, student advisement, and community outreach can also be beneficial for those seeking a position as a Criminal Justice Professor.

 

Criminal Justice Professor Education and Training Requirements

Criminal Justice Professors typically require a doctoral degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.

Along with their doctorate, they usually have extensive professional experience in the field of criminal justice.

This could include roles in law enforcement, corrections, legal practice, or social services.

Teaching experience, often gained through teaching assistantships during doctoral study, is also advantageous for prospective Criminal Justice Professors.

Some universities may accept candidates with a master’s degree, particularly if they have substantial professional experience or a strong research background.

In addition to formal education, Criminal Justice Professors should possess excellent communication skills, both for delivering lectures and for publishing academic research.

While not required, certifications in areas such as forensic science or cybersecurity can broaden a professor’s expertise and enhance their teaching capabilities.

Continuing education is crucial in this role, as Criminal Justice Professors must stay updated on the latest research, trends, and developments in the field.

This can be accomplished through attending conferences, participating in workshops, and maintaining memberships in professional organizations.

Additionally, Criminal Justice Professors are often expected to conduct their own research, which can lead to a stronger understanding of the field and can contribute to the body of knowledge in criminal justice.

 

Criminal Justice Professor Salary Expectations

A Criminal Justice Professor typically earns an average salary of $70,260 (USD) per year.

The exact income can vary based on factors such as the level of experience, educational qualifications, and the location of the university or college.

 

Criminal Justice Professor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Criminal Justice Professor need?

A Criminal Justice Professor typically needs to have a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in criminal justice, criminology, or a closely related field.

They should also have a significant background in teaching and research with a focus on criminal justice.

Other requirements might include published research in recognized journals, professional memberships, and prior experience in the criminal justice system.

 

What are the daily duties of a Criminal Justice Professor?

A Criminal Justice Professor’s daily duties typically involve preparing and delivering lectures, grading assignments and exams, conducting research, publishing findings in academic journals, supervising student research, serving on academic and administrative committees, and advising students on academic and career matters.

They may also participate in relevant professional activities and stay updated with the latest trends and developments in criminal justice.

 

What qualities make a good Criminal Justice Professor?

A good Criminal Justice Professor should possess strong communication and presentation skills to effectively deliver lectures and facilitate classroom discussions.

They should have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and be able to provide real-world applications of theories.

They should also have strong research skills, high ethical standards, and a passion for teaching and mentoring students.

Additionally, they should be organized, patient, respectful, and able to inspire and motivate students.

 

Is a background in law enforcement beneficial for a Criminal Justice Professor?

Yes, a background in law enforcement can be beneficial for a Criminal Justice Professor.

It provides practical insight and firsthand experience that can be incorporated into teaching and research.

It helps professors give their students a more comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system.

However, this is not a mandatory requirement, and many Criminal Justice Professors have purely academic backgrounds.

 

What should you look for in a Criminal Justice Professor’s resume?

A Criminal Justice Professor’s resume should highlight their academic achievements, including their highest level of education, publications, and research.

It should detail their teaching experience, including the courses they’ve taught and any positive outcomes or feedback.

Additionally, any practical experience in the criminal justice system, professional memberships, and participation in academic conferences or workshops should be included.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved into the heart of what it means to be a Criminal Justice Professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about lecturing.

It’s about molding the future of criminal justice, one student at a time.

With our helpful criminal justice professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to make the leap.

But why halt your journey there?

Continue your exploration with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to stellar standards.

Remember:

Every lecture, every student, is a part of the broader picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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