Legal Jobs 2026 (Now Hiring) – Smart Auto Apply

Department:

The Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies is a vibrant and growing academic unit committed to excellence in research, teaching, mentorship, and public engagement. The department serves approximately 1,000 undergraduate students and offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Science in Law Studies, a traditional Master of Criminal Justice program, an accelerated online Master of Criminal Justice program, and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice Policy Studies. With a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs, the department provides faculty with opportunities to teach, mentor, and collaborate with students at all stages of academic and professional development.

Faculty members engage in a wide range of research addressing contemporary issues in criminal justice, criminology, law, public policy, victimization, corrections, policing, courts, and related fields. The department values methodological diversity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scholarship that advances knowledge while contributing to practice and policy. Faculty maintain active research agendas and regularly publish in leading journals, secure external funding, and contribute to professional organizations and public discourse.

The department is home to a collegial and collaborative faculty community that supports innovation in both research and teaching. As one of the largest criminal justice and legal studies programs in the region, the department continues to expand its academic programs, research profile, and external partnerships. New faculty members will have opportunities to contribute to a dynamic and forward-looking academic environment with strong commitments to student success, scholarly excellence, and public impact.

The University of Mississippi is a Carnegie-designated R1 institution and Mississippi's flagship university, providing faculty with extensive opportunities for research, interdisciplinary engagement, graduate education, and community partnership. The department fosters a collaborative, collegial, and student-centered environment that supports faculty success in teaching, scholarship, service, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

For consideration, applicants should submit:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Research statement
• Teaching statement
• Unofficial graduate transcripts
• Contact information for three professional references

Job Summary:

The Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies invites applications for two faculty positions in criminal justice and legal studies at our main campus in Oxford, Mississippi. This is a tenure-track position beginning Fall 2027 and is open for the rank of Assistant Professor. Areas of specialization are open.

Job Description:

Duties: The successful candidates will be expected to maintain an active research agenda, publish in high-quality peer-reviewed journals, teach undergraduate and graduate courses, mentor students, and provide service to the department, the university, the profession, and the community. Faculty members will contribute to the department's undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs through teaching, advising, graduate committee service, and other activities that support student success and the continued development of the department.

Areas of specialization are open. Applicants should demonstrate potential to contribute to the instructional and research needs of the department.

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Job Responsibilities:

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in criminology, criminal justice, law studies, or a related discipline (ABDs may apply, but the degree must be in hand by the start of employment). Successful candidates will have a record of peer-reviewed publications in peer-reviewed scholarly journals appropriate to career stage, the capacity to secure and maintain extramural funding, a demonstrated ability to effectively teach undergraduate and graduate students, and a demonstrated commitment to academic, professional, and institutional service. Expectations are commensurate with Research 1 institutions.

Education Qualifications:

PhD: Criminology, Law, and Justice (Required)

Experience:

Related Experience

Interview Requirement:

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

EEO Statement:

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.