Visiting Assistant Professor of Psychology

Description

The Social and Behavioral Sciences Concentration at Soka University of America (SUA) invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Psychology, beginning August 1, 2026. This position has a two-year term. We seek a psychological scientist with training and research in basic or applied psychology.

The successful candidate will demonstrate their ability to excite and engage classes of 16 or fewer students, to develop a productive program of research and scholarship, and to engage in service. The position favors candidates with an interest in interdisciplinary teaching and research.

Responsibilities

As part of a five-course annual teaching load between August 1st and May 31st, the successful applicant will normally teach up to four courses in psychology, including Introduction to Psychology, Psychological Disorders, and Personality Psychology, as well as up to two courses in our interdisciplinary general education program, for example, Core 100, Core 200, Modes of Inquiry, and/or Learning Cluster (see our Undergraduate Catalog.)

The selected candidate will demonstrate a strong background in teaching and scholarship as well as evidence of ongoing research activity. They should describe a plan to maintain an active research program involving undergraduates. SUA provides resources to support faculty research year-round through institutional research funds and with undergraduate student research assistantships. All SUA graduates complete a Capstone (senior thesis), and applicants should demonstrate their ability to mentor student Capstones.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a PhD in Psychology or a doctoral degree in a psychology-related discipline by the time of employment.

Candidates should demonstrate responsiveness toward and understanding of diverse student backgrounds, especially regarding socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, culture, ability/disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to the university’s mission to develop global citizens. Having the ability and willingness to work collegially is essential, as is an understanding of our interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum.

Soka University of America

Soka University of America (SUA), located in Aliso Viejo, California, is a private, non-sectarian liberal arts college founded on the values of peace, human rights, and the sanctity of life. It offers a unique and global Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts degree with five concentrations and is committed to fostering a learning environment that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural understanding. SUA's small and multinational student body, approximately 450 undergraduates, ensures personalized attention and a close-knit academic community. The university's curriculum is rooted in the liberal arts tradition and incorporates a strong international perspective, requiring students to study abroad for a semester. Faculty members at SUA have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary teaching and research, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a strong commitment to faculty development and academic freedom. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, serene environment, and a culture that values dialogue, diversity, and the holistic development of its students.

Soka University is committed to a dynamic teaching pedagogy that prioritizes active learning through experiential projects, group discussions, and real-world applications. We place a strong emphasis on inclusive pedagogy, fostering a classroom environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel acknowledged, respected, and empowered. Our instructional approach aims to not only disseminate knowledge but also to cultivate critical thinkers and compassionate leaders.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit the following materials: (1) Letter of application addressing the required qualifications; (2) A curriculum vitae; (3) A teaching statement that describes their teaching experience in relevant courses, specifically a philosophy that should reflect how the candidate would address teaching needs in a liberal arts environment and address diverse backgro