Adjunct Pool (2026-27) / Sociology & Criminal Justice

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.

Job Summary:

The School of Behavioral & Social Sciences is seeking candidates for an adjunct teaching position to teach one or more courses in the area of sociology and/or criminal justice. The compensation level will range between $5,013-$6,684 and will be determined based on units assigned. Review of applications will occur continually as courses become available. A commitment to excellent teaching at the undergraduate level in a Christian liberal arts context and possessing a potential for scholarship and service is essential for a successful candidate.

Job Status:

Part time

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Job Description:

Salary: 

PLNU adjunct pay: Using a 3-unit full semester appointment as a pay guide, the adjunct pay range is $5,013 - $6,684. The units will determine the actual salary. 

Job Description:

The School of Behavioral & Social Sciences is seeking candidates for an adjunct teaching position in sociology and/or criminal justice. The University is seeking an individual capable of excellent teaching.

Responsibilities begin Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 and will include teaching a wide variety of courses in sociology and/or criminal justice. 

Responsibilities:

• Provide instruction in the area of sociology and/or criminal justice including some general education and service courses.

• Successful candidate will work strategically with diverse colleagues, students, parents and community members.

• Engage in personal scholarship and scholarship with students (where possible)

• Advise students academically, spiritually, and socially

• Participate in departmental activities and governance

• Serve on university faculty committees/working groups and perform other normal faculty duties

• Contribute in preparing students for their post graduate career and finding who they are called to be

Qualifications:

• Education: MA or Ph.D. in Sociology, Criminal Justice, or a related field

• Experience: Evidence of a commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching. Demonstrated effectiveness in teaching students from diverse backgrounds is preferred. 

• Philosophical: Thorough commitment to the concept of Christian liberal arts education and a desire to work in a Christian university. Supportive of the religious and educational goals of the university and its sponsoring denomination.

• Personal: 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. 

Selection Process: 

Applicants will be expected to submit an application and corresponding documents. All applicants will be reviewed and evaluated. From this pool of applicants, a limited number will be selected and moved forward in the process. The interview process may include:

• Phone/Zoom Interview 

• Dialogue with students and faculty in the Department of Sociology & Social Work

• Lecture presented to faculty and students in the Department of Sociology & Social Work

• Evidence of successful teaching, if applicable 

• Interview with the Program Lead / Associate Dean

• Interview with the Dean of the School of Behavioral & Social Sciences

• Interview with the Provost

• Interview with the President of the University

Special Instructions:

The number of adjunct instructors hired varies from semester to semester, depending upon the needs of the department. Please realize that there may not presently be an adjunct position available. When an opening becomes available for which you would be a good match, the department chair will be in contact with you for further dialogue, interviews, etc.

Approved applicants will remain in the adjunct pool for the upcoming school year only. To be reconsidered for the following school year, applicant will need to reapply. If hired, official transcripts will be required from all undergraduate and graduate universities attended before a contract is issued.

When beginning your application, be prepared to answer these Adjunct questions and upload the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae

• Cover Letter

• Statement of Personal Faith

• Philosophy of Teaching in Christian Higher Education

• Provide names and contacts for 3 references, at least one professional contact who can speak to your teaching potential (references will only be contacted if you are advanced as a finalist candidate)

• Unofficial Transcripts for highest degree completed (Search Committee discretion)

If you have questions about items for the application, please contact the Office of Human Resources at humanresources@pointloma.edu or the Director of Operations at sstarner@pointloma.edu.​

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At PLNU, we believe in pursuing calling together. Deep and meaningful relationships between students, faculty, and staff is vital in nurturing our shared community and expressing God’s love. We are looking for enthusiastic candidates to join us in empowering our students to reach their greatest personal, spiritual and professional potential. 

Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.