Assistant Professor, Recreation

EMPLOYMENT TERMS: Full-time, 9-month contract

PRIMARY DUTY:

Teach undergraduate and graduate courses within the School of Health Science and Wellness, primarily in the Recreation, Parks, Sports, and Tourism program, including in the discipline area of Therapeutic Recreation, with opportunities to teach in other health science disciplines. The primary teaching assignment includes courses in the undergraduate recreation core curriculum and graduate recreation programs. Additional teaching opportunities may be available across related program areas.

Additional responsibilities include advising undergraduate and graduate students, supervising field experiences and internships, and actively participating in scholarship and service activities at the departmental, college, and university levels. Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated teaching experience, scholarly activity in a recreation-related field, professional engagement, and certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and/or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Candidates who do not currently hold the CTRS credential may still be considered for the position; however, obtaining CTRS certification within a specified timeframe after hire will be required.

The undergraduate Recreation, Parks, Sport, and Tourism program offers emphasis areas in Therapeutic Recreation, Corporate Recreation, Recreation and Park Management, Sport Management, and Tourism and Event Planning. Graduate offerings include an M.S. in Therapeutic Recreation and an M.S. in Recreation with concentrations in Sport Management, Parks and Recreation Administration, and Hospitality Management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in leisure, recreation, and therapeutic recreation:
   • Teaching on ground and web-based courses (24-26 credit hours per academic year with the option for additional summer pay).
   • Develop and revise course syllabi, lesson plans, and associated materials for effective course delivery
   • Utilize and manage classroom technologies and the course management system to support student learning.
   • Ensure continuous improvement of instruction through the identification and implementation of best practices, including ongoing systematic development, implementation, and evaluation of the total program in relation to its stated philosophy, mission, and graduate competencies.
2. Creative and Scholarly Efforts:
   • Establish a line of creative and scholarly research
   • Participate in knowledge generation and knowledge sharing via related peer, professional, and community opportunities
   • Publish and or present scholarly work as it relates to the school promotion and tenure guidelines.
3. Professional Involvement:
   • Active participation in related professional and community organizations, service on departmental, college, and university committees
   • Attend regular meetings and participate in the development of program and institutional policies and decision-making.
4. Student Support:
   • Assist with student recruitment, student advisement, student development and student retention.
   • Ensure the content of course materials correspond with the course and program learning outcomes.
   • Model effective oral and written communication that engages students, provides clarity, and improves student learning.
   • Advise and provide academic guidance to students in the health sciences programs.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

• Terminal degree in Parks, Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, Leisure Studies, or a closely related field, with at least one graduate degree in Parks, Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, or Leisure related field.
• Candidates nearing completion of their doctoral degree will be considered.

Certification/License:

• Professional certification or credential relevant to the discipline preferred (e.g., Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), or equivalent) or related certification. Candidates who do not currently hold the CTRS credential may still be considered for the position; however, obtaining CTRS certification within a specified timeframe after hire will be required.

Experience:

• Successful professional experience in a recreation, parks, tourism, sport, therapeutic recreation, or related setting.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• Commitment to collaboration in both professional practice and instructional settings.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and instructional technologies.
• Ability to work effectively with students, faculty, staff, and community partners.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The majority of the work will be conducted on campus in classrooms. Faculty are expected to maintain regular on-campus office hours for student advisement and additional departmental responsibilities. Regular attendance at school, college, and committee meetings is required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Graduate and undergraduate students involved in class or departmental projects, graduate and/or undergraduate research; Possibly students employed within the department

EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS USED:

Laptop or desktop computer, Canvas learning management system, classroom AV technology, and various software used for student support.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to lift up to 20 pounds