Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.
Virginia Union University seeks a dedicated and dynamic Assistant Professor of Social Work to join our faculty within the School of Social Work. This role is an excellent opportunity for a passionate educator and researcher committed to advancing the field of social work through innovative teaching, scholarship, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment that empowers students to become leaders and change agents in social work practice, policy, and research.
Responsibilities
- Deliver engaging, student-centered instruction in social work courses across undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Develop and update curricula to reflect current research, professional standards, and community needs.
- Mentor and advise students on academic, research, and career matters, promoting a commitment to social work values and ethics.
- Conduct research in relevant areas of social work, aiming for publication in respected academic journals.
- Pursue and secure external funding through grants and other funding opportunities to support research initiatives.
- Present research findings at conferences and contribute to the advancement of social work knowledge.
- Participate in department, school, and university service, including committee membership and program development.
- Collaborate with local and regional social service agencies to strengthen VUU’s impact within the community and enhance field education opportunities for students.
Education
- Ph.D. in Social Work or a related field, or significant progress toward completion of a doctoral degree at the time of appointment.
- Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program is required.
- A minimum of two years of post-MSW practice experience.
- Must be able to lift 10 pounds.
Application Process
Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].
Equal Opportunity Employer
Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.
For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.
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Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Social Work or a related field, or significant progress toward completing a doctoral degree at appointment
- Master of Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
- At least two years of post-MSW practice experience
- Ability to lift 10 pounds
- Resume, four professional references, and cover letter
- Successful background investigation and reference check before employment
What We Do
A premier historically black university, with a rich heritage and outstanding legacy of producing world-renown leaders; Virginia Union University offers its students "The Promise of A Limitless Future." (c) Located on 84 acres in the heart of Richmond, Virginia Union University, the beautiful and scenic campus showcases historic architecture, while providing comprehensive undergraduate liberal arts programs and graduate education for Christian ministries. To this end, a guiding principle of the University's educational program is a strong focus upon moral values and ethics, and students are encouraged to engage in activities that promote self-actualization. Virginia Union University is nourished by its African American and Christian heritage and energized by a commitment to excellence and diversity. Its mission is to: 1. Provide a nurturing intellectually challenging and spiritually enriching environment for learning; 2. Empower students to develop strong moral values for success; and 3. Develop scholars, leaders, and lifelong learners of a global society. To accomplish this mission, Virginia Union University offers a broad range of educational opportunities that advance liberal arts education, teaching, research, science, technology, continuing education, civic engagement, and international experiences.






