Job description

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor (Tenured/Tenure-Track) of Criminal Justice in the Department of Criminal Justice. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond. Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further.

At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

No matter where you’re located—on campus or online—you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond.

The Criminal Justice program is distinguished by its focus on hands-on learning and its commitment to bridging academic knowledge with real-world application. Faculty and students benefit from initiatives such as the Peace Officer Tuition Exemption, extensive internship opportunities, and advanced training in crime analysis and mapping through partnerships with organizations like the Texas Law Enforcement Analyst Network. These resources empower our graduates to lead in the evolving field of criminal justice.

This is a 9-month tenured/tenure-track* position located on Tarleton’s Chisolm Trail campus in Fort Worth, Texas. Summer appointment is dependent upon need and funding availability. Work hours: Mon-Fri; 8 AM-5 PM or as work and teaching requirements indicate. May be required to teach at other campuses or online at the institution’s discretion.

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate excellence and innovation in teaching, maintain an impactful research program, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, actively engage in mentoring and guiding doctoral students through our PhD program, and participate in the necessary operation of the institution. For one position, preference will be given to candidates who can teach theory and/or qualitative methods for the doctoral program.

*This announcement will fill two open vacancies. The teaching load is two or three courses per semester, negotiable.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

60% Teaching and Service:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver lectures, seminars, and/or laboratory offerings to undergraduate and/or graduate students, which may include general education core curriculum.
• Develop course syllabi, select instructional materials, and design assessments such as exams, quizzes, papers, etc.
• Assess student performance, provide timely feedback, and evaluate student learning outcomes to inform teaching practices and curriculum improvements.
• Engage students in active learning, foster critical thinking skills, and provide opportunities for discussion, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
• Provide academic support and guidance to students through office hours, feedback on assignments, and mentoring.
• Adhere to university policies, academic integrity standards, and accreditation requirements related to teaching responsibilities.
• Incorporate innovative teaching methods, technologies, and pedagogical approaches to enhance student learning and engagement.
• Engage in ongoing professional development activities to stay current in the field, improve teaching skills, and explore new instructional strategies.
• Collaborate with colleagues, departmental faculty, and university staff to coordinate course offerings, share resources, and contribute to program development and improvement.
• Participate in institutional service roles including but not limited to, college committees, advisory committees, student/faculty recruitment, and mentoring of new and part-time faculty.

40% Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity:

• Maintain an active agenda for research, scholarship, or creative activity appropriate to the applicant’s academic discipline.
• Make original contributions to the advancement of knowledge/creative expression in the applicant’s discipline through scholarly publication, presentation, or exhibition.
• Demonstrate potential for external funding, national impact, or professional recognition.

Minimum Requirements:

• Earned doctorate degree in Criminal Justice from an accredited university
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Academic Rank:

• Rank will be determined by reviewing the faculty member’s record of years of experience and professional achievements in teaching, service, and research consistent with the Texas A&M system guidance.
  • Must have a distinguished record that warrants a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.
  • Tenure upon arrival would be granted pending approval from The Texas A&M University System.
  • Credit towards tenure will be assessed and offered at hire

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Applications only accepted on-line at https://www.tarleton.edu/jobs and should be submitted to job posting R-087996. Knowledge and understanding of disciplinary subject matter at a level adequate for graduate-level instruction; written and oral communication skills sufficient to conduct effective teaching and research activities; ability to interact with students, staff, and faculty in a professional, collegial, and collaborative manner.

***Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience***

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records – in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement – while transforming the lives of over 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.

How to apply

During the application process applicants have one opportunity to enter the requested information, upload documents, and Submit the application. Applicants will not be able to make changes or add additional documents once the application materials have been submitted via the “Submit” action.

Employment applications must include (required):

• Completed online application
• Cover Letter / Letter of Interest addressing qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• At least 3 current professional references and their full contact information
• Unofficial transcripts
  • Applicants with degrees earned outside the United States must submit transcripts translated into English, along with an official credential evaluation from a recognized service.
  • Philosophy Statement
  • Philosophy Statement related to Teaching, and Research – no more than 1500 words.

Applications received by Tarleton State University must have all job application data entered. Failure to provide all job application data could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. “See resume” is not an acceptable entry in the job application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Anticipated start date Spring/Fall 2026.

Official transcripts must be received directly from each degree‐granting institution prior to a letter of appointment being issued.