WSU School of Social Work seeking applicants for full-time tenure stream faculty positions

The School of Social Work at Wayne State University (WSU) in Detroit, Michigan is committed to community engaged practice within our dynamic urban setting. We invite applications for three faculty positions from outstanding candidates with focused research and exemplary teaching.

The School of Social Work is committed to social justice and social work practice. We strongly encourage a ‘person in environment framework’ with a particular interest in race equity and attention to vulnerable populations. The ideal tenure stream candidates will be involved in research consistent with this philosophy and capitalize on the SSW established and emerging connections to academic units, service agencies, communities and government.

Tenure stream faculty (three positions) 

There are three tenure stream positions: Two at the entry level (Assistant) and one at a more senior level (Associate or Full). Evidence of a beginning research trajectory, potential for external funding and some teaching experience is desirable at the Assistant Professor rank. Appointment at the rank of Associate/Full Professor with tenure requires a strong record of research, external funding, publications, teaching and service.

Content and research expertise should use a social justice lens and be specific in one or both of the following:

  1. health (health care, health disparities, substance use disorders, intraprofessional practice)
  2. criminal/legal continuum (violence, victims, trauma, behavioral health interface)
  3. child well-being (child welfare, workforce retention, clinical practice with children and families)

How to apply

A curriculum vitae and cover letter (2 pages) are requested. The cover letter should include information on approaches to research, teaching and diversity. In addition, please provide the names and full contact information of three references and one writing sample.

Please apply for the position(s) of choice as soon as possible. The School of Social Work’s Search Committee will be begin reviewing applications immediately. The positions will remain open until a suitable candidate has been identified.

For all positions, please submit your documents to: Executive Assistant to the Dean, Dorrian McGhee at dorrianmcghee@wayne.edu. Clearly label on the Subject Line which position you are applying for.

For questions and/or concerns contact Chair of the Search Committee Faith Hopp at faithhopp@wayne.edu.


Wayne State University School of Social Work, accredited since 1945, is situated in the heart of Detroit’s Cultural and Historic District. Opportunities to engage in a community-centered research/practice/advocacy abound! The School’s status as part of the premier urban research institution in Michigan is also supported by the activities of our two Centers: 1) Center for Behavioral Health and Justice (CBHJ) and the 2) Center for Social Work Research (CSWR). CBHJ is currently home to multiple state, foundation, and federal grants focused on the intersection between behavioral health and the criminal/legal continuum. The goal is prevention of confinement through diversion and deflection. The CSWR supports faculty research, scholarship, community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration on projects relevant to social work and social justice. For more information about the School please visit our website.

Wayne State University is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit (Midtown) where students from all backgrounds are offered rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities preparing students for success in a diverse, global society. WSU encourages applications from women, people of color, and other underrepresented people. Wayne State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

← Back to listing