About this Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice role at Xavier University
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Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice
The Department of Criminal Justice at Xavier University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning in August 2027. We seek a collaborative teacher-scholar whose teaching and research will strengthen the Department’s expertise in criminal justice research methods, policing broadly defined, or both. The teaching expectation is 18 credit hours annually for this tenure-track faculty position when a faculty member meets the College’s active scholarship standards.
The Department has a robust undergraduate and growing online graduate program. We offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice, a dual degree (MSN/MS CJUS) with nursing, and a post-baccalaureate criminal justice administration certificate for working professionals. Consistent with Xavier University’s mission, the Department seeks to equip undergraduate and graduate students with the competence and conscience necessary to serve criminal justice agencies and other organizations concerned with crime, justice, and community well-being.
The successful candidate will:
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in both in-person and online formats;
- Maintain an active research agenda;
- Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students; and
- Participate in departmental, university, professional, and community service.
Required Qualifications:
- A Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Justice Studies, or a closely related field. ABD candidates may be considered provided that all requirements for the doctorate will be completed by August 1, 2027.
- Evidence of effective college- or university-level teaching or demonstrated potential for teaching excellence.
- Evidence of an active research agenda and potential for continued scholarly productivity.
- Effective written and oral communication skills.
- A commitment to student advising and mentoring.
- A commitment to the missions of the Department of Criminal Justice and Xavier University, including Xavier’s Jesuit Catholic educational tradition.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience teaching criminal justice courses at the undergraduate or graduate level.
- Ability to teach criminal justice research methods, policing courses, or both.
- Experience teaching in online formats.
The Department of Criminal Justice is part of the College of Health and Human Sciences. CHHS is a leader in experiential learning: 100% of our undergraduate and graduate programs require hands-on learning through field placements, internships, research experiences, and clinical opportunities. In the College of Health and Human Sciences, our commitment to exceptional teaching and mentoring drives us. We focus on scholarship and service in a variety of fields that make a direct and meaningful impact on others. We intentionally strive to create a learning experience that supports all students, incorporates a broad range of perspectives, and fosters an environment of belonging. In alignment with Xavier's Jesuit Catholic mission and Statement of Purpose to "form students who change the world for the better," we are united across our diverse areas by the shared mission of changing human lives for the better.
Many of our College programs, including Department of Criminal Justice is part of Xavier Health, the University's integrated health initiative connecting a broad portfolio of programs and creating opportunities for collaboration across disciplines. Xavier Health offers more than 15 undergraduate and 12 graduate pathways, more than 500 community partnership sites, and connections across disciplines that contribute to health and human well-being. Xavier Health prepares servant-leaders through real-world experiences and Jesuit Catholic formation that puts the whole person at the center of care.
Xavier University is part of the 500-year-old Jesuit Catholic tradition of academic excellence in the liberal arts. Guided by our mission and values, we welcome and support members from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. We unreservedly commit to open and free inquiry, deliberately seek out multiple perspectives, and create a campus where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Our campus is located in the vibrant and thriving city of Cincinnati, which has an array of neighborhoods and activities to suit many interests.
Review of applications will start on October 26, 2026 with anticipated on-campus interviews anticipated toward the end of 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position closes at the University’s discretion.
To receive full consideration, applicants should submit: (1) a letter of interest; (2) a curriculum vitae; (3) up to three selected publications, combined into a single file; (4) evidence of teaching effectiveness, such as student or peer evaluations, if available, combined into a single file; and (5) the names and contact information of three professional references. The letter of interest should address the position’s qualifications and describe the applicant’s teaching philosophy, research agenda, and record of professional and institutional service or plans to contribute in these areas. Application materials should be submitted through Xavier University’s website. Letters of recommendation will be requested following initial screening interviews.
Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Cheryl Lero Jonson, Chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and Search Committee Chair, at [email protected] or 513-745-1069.
Xavier University is an Equal Opportunity employer.
Benefits - applies only to full-time positions:
Xavier University offers a wide array of complementary and affordable benefit options to meet the financial, educational, health, and wellness needs of you and your family. Eligibility varies by position and employment class:
Comprehensive insurance plans including medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage.
Tax advantaged accounts including health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and dependent care account.
Financial security via life and long-term disability insurance, accident and illness insurance, and retirement savings plans.
Generous paid time off work options including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Tuition remission for employees and their eligible dependents.
