Assistant/Associate Professor or Lecturer of Psychology-Tenure Track

About Us

Dalton State College delivers a transformational education experience in a community serving more than 5,000 students through its two campuses and online programs. A member of the University System of Georgia, we provide access to high-quality bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and career and teaching certificate programs that are responsive to regional and state needs.

Located about 90 minutes from Atlanta and 30 minutes from Chattanooga, Dalton State is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in northwest Georgia and is surrounded by abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. We attract students from 35 countries and 26 states. Approximately half of our students are first-generation college students. Dalton State is Georgia's first federally-designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI); through this designation, we administer a Title V and a Title III HSI STEM Grant program that benefit all students.

Our mission and values undergird our commitment to creating a sense of belonging for all students and to ensuring their success. Dalton State was ranked #1 in the nation for Student Experience in The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2024 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings and the #2 most recommended institution in the country in 2025. In addition, we are proud to have been recognized in 2024 as one of 75 "Great Colleges to Work For" by ModernThink, along with an Honor Roll distinction.

Job Summary

Dalton State College invites applications for a full-time, 10-month faculty position in Psychology, beginning on August 1, 2026. Depending on experience and qualifications, the appointment will be made at either the tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor or Lecturer level.

Teach. Engage. Inspire.

Dalton State is seeking a student-focused educator who is passionate about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students in a supportive, collaborative environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellence, or potential for excellence, in:

1. Teaching and student learning
2. Supporting student success through active engagement and mentoring
3. Research, scholarship, or creative activity, especially projects that involve students
4. Service to the institution and community
5. Professional growth and continued learning

Teaching responsibilities are 24 credit hours per academic year for a tenure-track faculty or 27 credit hours per academic year for a Lecturer. Courses may be offered during the day, evening, online, or at off-campus locations. Faculty also participate in curriculum development, student advising, assessment of learning outcomes, and campus or community service.

Preference may be given to candidates with experience or expertise in social psychology, developmental psychology, or industrial/organizational psychology.

Exceptional Facilities for Teaching and Research

The School of Arts and Sciences provides excellent facilities for teaching and undergraduate research in Psychology. Faculty and students have access to:

• A small mammal lab
• A fish lab
• An interview and observation room.

These resources allow for authentic, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for graduate programs and careers in psychology, education, health, and human services.

Application Process

Priority consideration will be afforded to those applicants who submit a completed application by Friday, January 30, 2026 . The search will continue until the position is filled. Applications must include these documents:

1. Letter of application that directly responds to the position description, highlights your relevant qualifications, and demonstrates how your professional experience aligns with the mission, values, and academic environment of Dalton State College.
2. A resume or curriculum vitae.
3. List of three professional references: please include full name, job title, organization, phone number and email address, a brief description of relationship with reference. Include current and/or past employers.
4. Statement of teaching philosophy and transcripts of all college work. Unofficial transcripts will suffice for initial screening; however, official transcripts will be required upon employment.

Minimum Starting Salary:

• $53,000/$58,000 with a doctorate in a tenure track position; $44,000 for Lecturer.
• Salary commensurate with education level and experience.

Individuals with a masters degree as the highest level of education will have a 10% decrease in starting pay in a tenure track position.

Benefits include:

Healthcare options
Retirement option: Teachers Retirement Systems (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Tuition assistance
$100 annually in well-being rewards
Paid sick leave
Paid parental leave
Winter break (December Holidays)
USG Benefits

Responsibilities

Major Duties - 100%
* Teach courses at the undergraduate level.
* Academic advising and mentoring students.
* Participate in service activities in the department, college, community, and other appropriate activities related to the field of expertise.
* Engage students in undergraduate research projects.

Required Qualifications

Educational Requirements
Applicants must hold an earned masters degree from an accredited institution with a minimum of 18 graduate credits in the teaching discipline, or closely related field.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Educational Qualifications
Earned doctorate

Preferred Experience
* College classroom teaching experience.
* Experience or interest in supervising undergraduate research

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

SKILLS
* Evidence of effective teaching or potential for teaching excellence.
* Strong oral and written communication skills.
* Ability to teach effectively in face-to-face, hybrid, and online learning environments.
* Commitment to engaging students, accommodating a variety of learning styles, and incorporating applied and experiential learning strategies.
* Commitment to educating, mentoring, and empowering students, particularly those who are first-generation college students, to achieve academic and personal success.
* Dedication to supporting the vision, mission, and values of Dalton State College.

USG Core Values

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

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