Visiting Assistant Professor of Social Work

Adams State University•Alamosa, CO

9d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Visiting Assistant Professor of Social Work to lead the design and launch of our first Master of Social Work (MSW) program and serve as the inaugural MSW Program Director. This individual will play a critical role in addressing the behavioral health needs of our region by training the next generation of social workers to thrive in rural settings. In the first 6 months - 1 year, the Visiting Assistant Professor of Social Work will focus solely on the development of the new MSW program and preparation for accreditation reviews with HLC and CSWE. The new online MSW program will directly improve the health and well-being of a rural region and will be tailored for working professionals in remote areas. The degree will focus on rural social work and collaborate with institutional and community partners. The Visiting Assistant Professor is anticipated to begin teaching classes in the Department of Sociology in 2027.

Requirements

A Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution
Has demonstrated leadership ability through teaching, scholarship, curriculum development, administrative experience, and other academic and professional activities in the field of social work.
A minimum of two years of professional experience in social work settings
At least two years of previous experience working at a university in a teaching or leadership capacity
A strong focus on teaching
Demonstrates knowledge of, sensitivity to, and ability to work effectively with, the educational needs of individuals and groups with a diverse range of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities
Evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity of Adams State University’s student population, including students with different abilities (e.g. physical and or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded, inclusive practices within the classroom
Demonstrated commitment to honesty, efficacy, and collaboration.

Nice To Haves

Holds a Doctorate degree as either a DSW or a closely related field
Be a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW)
Deep knowledge of CSWE accreditation standards
Experience launching a new MSW program
An understanding of unique challenges/opportunities of social work in rural communities
At least two years of professional experience in a social work settings
Ability or experience working with historically under-served and/or underrepresented populations, and first-generation college students.
Ability or experience in the recruitment and/or retention of underrepresented students, including students of color.
Commitment to professional development, scholarship, and service to the university and community.
Demonstrated self-awareness of one's own cultural beliefs, perspectives, and privileges as a part of one's orientation towards teaching.
Demonstrated decision-making that is informed by research, data, and theory and that leverages students' unique cultures, experiences, and background as strengths.

Responsibilities

Lead a cross-functional team to co-create a curriculum for an MSW program that is aligned with the 2022 CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS).
Direct the multi-year CSWE accreditation process, including the preparation of benchmark documents and ensuring compliance with all core competencies.
Establish a robust field education program, including the development of a field manual and securing affiliation agreements with agencies to provide the required hours of student practice.
Develop a hiring plan for future MSW faculty and lead student recruitment and admissions processes.
Build strong professional relationships with local healthcare providers and human service organizations to ensure the program meets regional workforce needs.
Teaching and Advising in the MSW and/or the Department of Sociology (Anticipated to begin these roles in 2027)