About the position
The Visual Impairments Program in the Department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies at the University of Arizona invites applications for a part-time Career-Track (Non-Tenure Eligible) Assistant Professor of Practice. The successful candidate will teach two courses per semester and/or supervise field experiences onsite in Tucson, Arizona (80%), and engage in service activities (20%). This position primarily focuses on teaching courses related to braille literacy and overseeing the administration of the state Braille proficiency examination. Additional responsibilities may include supervising practicum or internship students, supporting online program development, and contributing to programmatic initiatives as assigned by the Program Director. The faculty member will serve as a mentor and instructor for graduate and undergraduate students preparing to become Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments (TVIs). The role includes designing and delivering instruction aligned with professional standards, assessing student performance, developing curriculum collaboratively with program faculty, and providing feedback and academic advising. The candidate will also support the administration of standardized Braille examinations and ensure compliance with all related policies and procedures. This is a 9-month academic position beginning August 18, 2025, with the possibility of summer work related to braille exam administration for additional compensation.
Responsibilities
- Design course syllabi and develop instructional materials aligned with learning objectives and current professional practices in the field of visual impairments.
- Teach two braille or visual impairment-related courses each semester at the graduate and/or undergraduate level.
- Provide supervision for practicum and field experiences as assigned.
- Collaborate with program faculty on curriculum development and program improvement initiatives.
- Advise and mentor students, providing timely and constructive feedback.
- Coordinate and administer the Arizona State Braille Proficiency Exam in compliance with state regulations.
- Regularly review and update exam content to maintain rigor and alignment with Unified English Braille (UEB) and Nemeth Code standards.
- Maintain accurate records of examinee performance and prepare reports on exam outcomes.
- Engage in program outreach, student recruitment, and stakeholder partnerships.
- Participate in department, college, and university service.
- Collaborate on grant proposals and program evaluation efforts, as applicable.
- Commitment to student learning and inclusive education practices.
Requirements
- Earned doctorate in Special Education or a closely related field with an emphasis in visual impairments by the time of hire.
- Experience teaching coursework related to visual impairments, including braille literacy, assistive technology, or other areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum.
- Experience teaching in both face-to-face and distance education formats.
- Experience in administering and evaluating braille exams using a variety of tools and methods.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience teaching and advising undergraduate and graduate students at the postsecondary level.
- Experience with braille exam administration, including record keeping and procedural compliance.
- Experience coordinating practicum or internship placements with external partners.
- Experience with grant writing or participation in externally funded projects.
- Experience with developing online coursework and modules for hybrid or fully remote learning environments.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Life insurance and disability programs
- Sick leave and holidays
- UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members
- Retirement plans
- Access to UA recreation and cultural activities
