Adjunct Faculty- BS Human Services
Walden University was founded more than 50 years ago to support adult learners in achieving their academic goals and making a greater impact in their professions and communities. Students from across the U.S. and more than 115 countries pursue certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees online. We offer over 100 online degrees and certificate programs and are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
About the Role
We're looking for part-time faculty who bring warmth, empathy, and genuine care to online teaching. You'll guide students through their learning, provide thoughtful feedback, and build meaningful connections through clear, timely communication. You'll work in a community that values students and faculty equally—where respect, support, and human connection come first.
Everything we do is guided by a commitment to social impact. As pioneers in online education, we've built a community of care where inclusive teaching isn't a buzzword—it's how we show up every day. We believe in the worth and dignity of every person in our classrooms. The best learning happens when everyone feels valued and seen.
Our Students
Our students are working adults balancing education with work, family, and life. We meet them where they are and walk alongside them as lifelong learners. We recognize how intersectionality shapes our students' lives and provide community, support, and rigor tailored to each person.
“To teach in a manner that respects and cares for the souls of our students is essential if we are to provide the necessary conditions where learning can most deeply and intimately begin.” – bell hooks, Teaching to Transgress
Responsibilities
- Teach 6-week asynchronous online terms (you manage your time)
- Engage in your classroom at least 4 days per week
- Facilitate discussion board conversations
- Assess student work with caring, timely feedback
- Be available via video or phone when needed
- Create a supportive virtual classroom where students feel safe
- Occasionally collaborate on developing course content
- Serve on committees or support college needs and course maintenance
- Collaborate with colleagues on faculty-led and leadership-directed projects
Training & Support
You'll receive training in the pedagogy of online teaching, our learning management system, and university policies. You'll be paired with a peer mentor starting with your first teaching assignment.
Requirements
You'll thrive here if you:
- Are committed to empowering adult learners
- Have experience with students juggling multiple responsibilities
- Work well with colleagues to support students
- Have an advanced degree with relevant experience
- Excel at building community online (online teaching experience required)
- Prioritize teaching
- Bonus: Research, scholarship, or thought leadership
- Bonus: Community involvement or social change work
Qualifications
For PhD-level roles:
- Earned doctorate in the field of study or closely related field (required)
- 3+ years teaching experience and/or a capacity and willingness to instruct within Walden’s Person-Centered and Community of Care approach (required)
- Experience supporting doctoral research committees and/or mentoring a diverse population of doctoral students (required for doctoral mentoring roles)
- Experience with distance learning (preferred)
For Master's-level roles (e.g., B.S. Human Services):
- Master's Degree in Human Services, Social Work, Healthcare Administration, or a related field (required)
- 1 to 2 years teaching experience in higher education preferred and/or a capacity and willingness to instruct within Walden’s Person-Centered and Community of Care approach
- Experience with distance learning (preferred)
Application Materials
- A cover letter that provides insights about your teaching philosophy and effectiveness, with a focus on working with students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds
- Curriculum Vitae demonstrating capacity and willingness to provide individualized instructional support and guidance to students with a wide range of professional and lived experience
- Materials should demonstrate support for Walden University’s mission and vision