Assistant Professor of Special Education

About the role

The San Diego State University (SDSU) Department of Special Education seeks to hire a tenure-track Assistant Professor with expertise in Behavior Analysis.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the M.A. Degree in Special Education with a concentration in Behavior Analysis and Autism program.
• Collaborate with a team of faculty who are active researchers and directors of grant-funded projects that support candidates across a range of special educator preparation programs.

Qualifications

• A record of original research/scholarly/creative accomplishments and demonstrated capacity to:
  • a) Develop a vigorous and independent program of research/scholarship/creative activity,
  • b) Teach graduate and undergraduate courses;
  • c) Engage in both campus and professional service activities.
• Demonstration of past accomplishments and/or future plans in at least two (2) or more of the “Building on Inclusive Excellence” criteria.

Required Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Special Education, Psychology or related field, with all degree requirements met, and active certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in the discipline and its methodologies.
• Demonstrated competence in teaching/providing effective educational programs for individuals with autism in schools.
• Record of publications, presentations, and/or funding.
• Demonstrated proficiency in interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches.
• University-level teaching experience, including teaching students from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to direct advanced undergraduate and / or graduate student research.

Application Instructions

Apply via PageUp by October 15, 2026, providing the following materials:

• Cover letter, indicating how the applicant meets or will meet required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and “Building on Inclusive Excellence” criteria (3 pages maximum)
• Curriculum vita
• Writing sample describing why you seek a position at San Diego State University (1 page maximum).
• Statement describing your teaching philosophy and specifically how to effectively prepare future behavior analysts through university coursework (1 page maximum).
• Names and contact information for three references.

Pay

The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $89K to $94K. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances.

Benefits

San Diego State University offers a rich benefits package that constitutes a major portion of total compensation. For benefits information, click here.

Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment

Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities.