Visiting Faculty, Psychology

Point Loma Nazarene University•San Diego, CA

1d•$77,357 - $133,945

About The Position

PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition, offering quality undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. We provide higher education in a vibrant Christian environment where minds are engaged and challenged, character is modeled and formed, and service is an expression of faith. PLNU is an institution that is committed to reflecting the rich diversity of God’s kingdom. We therefore encourage applications from culturally and academically diverse faculty of the highest caliber, skilled and/or demonstrating great potential in the practice of teaching and scholarship. The Department of Psychology at Point Loma Nazarene University is seeking applicants for a one-year visiting assistant professor position in psychology. Candidates with expertise in clinical/counseling or research psychology are encouraged to apply, and the expected course load will likely include a combination of specialization courses and core psychology courses (recent available core courses include abnormal psychology, personality & adult development, research methods & statistics, and general psychology). The visiting assistant professor will have a 27-unit contract over 2 semesters, with a 3-unit course release for a structured new faculty professional development opportunity. Research activity is preferred, especially research that emphasizes undergraduate student collaboration. We also recognize the strength that diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds bring to our department, and we invite applications from people who are eager to nurture and support students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Candidates with demonstrated teaching excellence and research experience are preferred, and rank will be determined by experience and academic qualifications. A doctorate in psychology is preferred, but candidates who are currently ABD are welcome to apply. Applicants should also demonstrate commitment to the university’s mission and quality undergraduate teaching. In addition, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion. The initial review of applications will begin on January 23rd, 2026, video interviews will be conducted shortly thereafter, and the review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Final candidates will conduct on-campus interviews. The anticipated start date is August 15, 2026.

Requirements

Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D in Psychology (or ABD)
Commitment to developing and maintaining teaching excellence
Commitment to developing and maintaining student mentoring
Evidence of support for diverse peoples and perspectives
Evidence of strong interpersonal and communication skills
Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement.
In addition, faculty agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant.
The job offer is contingent on the successful completion of a background check.
PLNU will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local "Fair Chance" laws.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D in Psychology completed prior to application
Evidence of teaching excellence
Commitment to developing and maintaining scholarly research productivity, especially that which involves undergraduate students
Experience mentoring undergraduate students

Responsibilities

Teach 24 units of undergraduate psychology courses over the year (12 units per semester) and attend new faculty seminar.
Advise students academically, professionally, personally, and spiritually.
Participate in departmental/school activities and faculty meetings.
Off-campus community engagement, including involvement in a Christian religious community.

Benefits

We are pleased to offer attractive benefits and resources. This includes benefits such as health, dental, tuition benefits for employees and dependents, and competitive retirement matching.
There also may be opportunities for university assistance with the cost of housing in Southern California.
In addition, we have many opportunities to engage with our community including faculty chapel, weekly faculty lunches and a robust wellness program.
PLNU pays its faculty using a payscale based on experience and academic rank.
Faculty salaries using this scale for a 2-semester appointment range from $77,357 to $133,945.

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