2.31 – Faculty Qualifications

A. Purpose

Define the minimum faculty qualifications for each academic division.

B. Policy

All faculty members are required to have the appropriate credentials as specified by the academic division in which they teach.

C. Procedures

Health Sciences Division: The level of education required for Health Sciences directors and faculty members is determined by each appropriate certification or accreditation agency.

General Education Division:

College-Level Courses: Master’s degree and a minimum of 18 credit hours in the appropriate academic field in which they are teaching. Exceptions can be made to this based on documented expertise in the academic field established through continuing research, education, credential, or experience. The college follows faculty qualifications as established by the Higher Learning Commission. Any exceptions must be approved by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

Non-College Level Courses: Bachelor’s degree in the subject, a teaching credential in the subject, or a related credential. Any exceptions must be approved by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

Technical Education Division: Associate degree, industry recognized credential, or equivalent experience in the field of instruction unless specific requirements are determined by the appropriate certification or accreditation agency. If the instructor teaches secondary students they may be required to obtain DESE Teaching Certification.

High School Programs: For college credit, faculty members are required to have the same credentials as if teaching the same course within one of the academic divisions.

D. Definitions

N/A

E. Authority

This policy is maintained under the authority of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

F. Related Policies

N/A

G. Implementation

Policy approved and adopted by the Board of Trustees on 10/21/13. Revised on 08/12/19.

Purpose, procedures, responsibilities, and definitions approved and adopted by the Cabinet on 09/19/13. Revised on 06/04/19. Set for review in fiscal year 2025 – 2026.