Position Summary
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.
Position Start: Fall 2026
The Visiting Assistant Professor is anticipated to begin teaching classes in the Department of Sociology in 2027.
Key responsibilities for this position include:
- Curriculum Development: 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).
- Accreditation Leadership: Direct the multi-year CSWE accreditation process, including the preparation of benchmark documents and ensuring compliance with all core competencies.
- Field Education Design: 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.
- Strategic Growth: Develop a hiring plan for future MSW faculty and lead student recruitment and admissions processes.
- Community Engagement: 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)
Minimum Qualifications
- 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.
Preferred Qualifications
- 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.
Location: On-site in Alamosa, CO
Salary and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $51,217 - $64,021 commensurate with experience and education. This is a 9-month contract paid over 12 months. Teaching and Director duties during the summer will result in additional compensation. In addition to salary, Adams State University offers a competitive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, and retirement savings plans.
Required Documents: Cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching statement, informed response, graduate transcripts, and three references.
For full consideration, applications should be received by 8/11/2026. Review of applications will begin immediately after this date. The position will remain open until filled.
This is a Preview Listing…
You must sign in to see the full job description, and to apply.
Manage / Upgrade this job to a Full Job Listing.
Find Your Best Opportunity
Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!
