Practice Professor of Criminology / Faculty Director, Master of Applied Criminology and Policing Program - University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania (https://www.upenn.edu/) (Penn) invites applications for a dynamic and experienced academic leader to serve as the Faculty Director for the newly launched Master of Applied Criminology and Police Leadership (MCPL) program, housed within the College of Liberal and Professional Studies (https://www.lps.upenn.edu/) (LPS). The full-time Faculty Director will also hold a non-tenure track appointment as a Practice Professor in the Department of Criminology (https://crim.sas.upenn.edu/) at the School of Arts and Sciences (https://www.sas.upenn.edu/) and is ideal for an individual with substantial practical experience in law enforcement and criminology, combined with a deep commitment to teaching and advancing evidence-based practices in policing.



We seek candidates who share our strong commitment to research, teaching and mentoring, and to a scholarly community shaped by values of inclusive excellence. The Department of Criminology (https://crim.sas.upenn.edu/) , the School of Arts and Sciences (https://www.sas.upenn.edu/) , and the University of Pennsylvania (https://www.upenn.edu/) are committed to creating a community of students, scholars, and staff that reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We create working and learning environments that are affirming, equitable, and inclusive. As a community, we value dynamic interactions and thoughtful discussions, and strive for an environment where everyone is supported and valued. For information on the School of Arts and Sciences’ inclusion and anti-racism initiatives, please see: https://www.sas.upenn.edu/office-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/news/2020-inclusion-and-anti-racism-initiatives







Position Overview

The Faculty Director/Practice Professor will provide academic oversight to the MCPL program, guiding the curriculum, teaching, mentoring students, and fostering collaborative partnerships between academia and police agencies. The MCPL program, designed for working police professionals, focuses on developing next-generation leaders who can apply research and evidence-based strategies to improve safety, justice, and accountability in policing. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching, expertise in evidence-based policing, and a proven track record of integrating research and practice to improve police efficacy in real-world settings.



Key Responsibilities:





+ Lead the development, implementation, and continual improvement of the MCPL curriculum in collaboration with the Department of Criminology faculty steering committee and LPS.



+ Teach two courses in the first-year curriculum, co-teach the summer data analysis intensive and second-year capstone course; supervise student capstone projects. MCPL courses are offered in a hybrid format that combines weekly synchronous online classes with monthly on-campus class meetings and a one-week summer campus intensive workshop.



+ Oversee program administration, including budget oversight, admissions, student recruitment, advising, and academic support.



+ Foster relationships with law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and community organizations to ensure the program remains responsive to the needs of the field.



+ Conduct and oversee applied research that bridges academic theory and real-world practice, particularly in the areas of safety, justice, and police accountability.



+ Mentor and supervise students, facilitating their professional development as future leaders in the field.



+ Contribute to scholarly research and publications on topics related to criminology, policing, and management leadership.







+ A PhD in Criminology, Public Administration, or a closely related field is strongly preferred. Candidates with Master’s degrees and strong practitioner experience will be considered, provided they have substantial experience with research and/or working with universities.



+ Extensive practical experience in law enforcement, with a demonstrated understanding of the complexities of policing in diverse communities.



+ Expertise in evidence-based policing practices, including experience designing and conducting research in police agencies.



+ A strong record of leadership, research, and teaching in criminology or police leadership.



+ A demonstrated commitment to advancing justice and accountability in policing.



+ Ability to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, including law enforcement leaders, policymakers, academics, and community groups.





Interested candidates should submit the following documents:





+ A cover letter outlining your qualifications and vision for the MCPL program.



+ A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).



+ A statement of research interests, particularly related to evidence-based policing and leadership in law enforcement.



+ A teaching statement.



+ Copies of teaching evaluations



+ Three confidential letters of references.





Please apply through Penn’s online recruitment portal at: apply.interfolio.com/160618 . Review of applications will begin January 15, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.



For inquiries, please contact Dr. Greg Ridgeway at gridge@sas.upenn.edu .




The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty and staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class. Questions or concerns about this should be directed to the Executive Director of the Office of Affirmative Action (http://www.upenn.edu/affirm-action/) and Equal Opportunity Programs, University of Pennsylvania, 421 Franklin Building, 3451 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6205; or (215) 898-6993 (Voice) or (215) 898-7803 (TDD).