Overview
While supporting and encouraging research, Ferris State University is primarily a teaching university. We encourage applicants with substantial clinical experience who are interested in teaching and mentoring our next generation of social workers.
The successful candidate must demonstrate excellence in teaching, the ability to work effectively with both faculty colleagues and diverse student populations, and participation in other department/college and University academic activities.
The anticipated start date of this position is August 2024 at the earliest and January 2025 at the latest. However, these are estimated dates and can be revised if needed.
Position Type: Faculty – Temporary & Continuing
Required Education: Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE accredited institution.
Required Work Experience: Two years of post-MSW clinical practice experience in the field.
Candidate must demonstrate potential for higher education teaching excellence and the ability to work effectively with both the faculty and students.
Required Licenses and Certifications: Candidate must have/or be eligible and apply for a Michigan Social Work License upon hire.
Physical Demands:
- Office Environment
Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered: Two years of successful higher education teaching experience (6+ credits/semester in an academic year)
Doctoral degree in Social Work or closely related field.
Academic leadership and accreditation experience.
Evidence of a strong clinical background, i.e. expertise in mental health, child welfare, school social work, gerontology and/or trauma informed practice.
Evidence of ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: • Effective teaching by way of good communication, assessment of student learning and adaptation to various levels of student preparation.
* Provide up-to-date coursework and course-related materials.
* Use teaching-related technologies when determined appropriate.
* Engage in scholarly activities and research.
* Maintain a safe and engaging learning environment.
* Keep office hours at times convenient for students.
* Meet with classes at their scheduled times.
* Teach courses, both face-to-face and/or online, in both the BSW and MSW curriculum at off campus sites, currently in Traverse City and Big Rapids.
* Carry out academic advising responsibilities.
* Participate in the on-going development and implementation of programming at the department, college and university levels.
* Directly responsible to the Social Work Department Chair and Dean.
* Responsibilities include maintaining the confidentiality of designated information and performing duties in compliance with applicable policies and procedures.
* Faculty members also have professional responsibilities which will include advising students, orientation and registration of students, participation in university committees, and keeping regular posted office hours (which are scheduled at times convenient for students), and participation in traditional functions which have academic significance (ex. reporting initial student participation data and submitting final grades on time). Faculty may be required to teach off-campus or in an on-line environment.
* Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
* Demonstrates an understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in working relationships with students, faculty, staff and community members.
Marginal Duties/Responsibilities:
Skills and Abilities: • Ability to provide structured courses with clear learning outcomes.
* Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team setting.
* Ability to work effectively with diverse groups.
* Effective interpersonal skills.
* Demonstrated commitment, experience and understanding for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Unofficial Transcript 1
- Teaching Philosophy
Optional Documents: Unofficial Transcript 2
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial Transcript 1 (REQUIRED): Applicants must attach a copy of unofficial transcripts of appropriate degree(s). Transcripts must include institution name, applicant name, date, degree attained, degree awarded. Finalist will be required to submit an official transcript.
Applicants must attach a teaching philosophy.
Open Until Position is Filled?: Yes
Posting Close Date:
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.