Looking forward to teaching criminal justice courses. Received my MPA with 18hrs CJ classes about three years ago. Two years of experience in security/loss prevention. Three years teaching/counseling at risk youth. Coming up on two years of law enforcement at the local level. I'm brand new to all of this...any leads, tips, words or wisdom would be greatly appreciated.
It's very tough to break into the online adjunct market -- and once you do, you'll be amazed at how swamped you are with time-consuming work. By the time you put in all the necessary hours and hours for grading, you'll be making the wages of a crew chief at McDonalds. Colleges and universities are increasing the workload of adjuncts, especially over the last few years. I've had 80+ students in one class -- without a TA. Nuts.
I concur with me again; I haven't seen online CJ adjunct positions advertised anywhere in quite some time, while a few years ago it was quite common. Just keep looking; check out my response in the "How do I get started?" thread in this section, and don't get discouraged. I also agree with me again concerning the workload; I'm constantly getting course solicitations, and have to turn down some of them so that the students I do have get my full attention. 80 students in one course is insane!
Bruce, All better known as The Permanent Temporary Workforce; according to a recent Newsweek Jan. 28th article, e.g., The Disposable Worker… http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/10_03/b4163032935448.htm
Unfortunate, but true. I could make more money by working overtime and/or details than what I make from my adjunct position, but I actually enjoy teaching. I'm on my computer before/after work anyway, so if someone wants to pay me for engaging in discussions and reading about things that interest me anyway, who am I to argue?
My field is not CJ, but I have found that the schools I teach for are becoming more stringent and "picky" since there are always plenty of adjuncts out there who can't find a job. If you don't want to "toe the line" then they will jettison you and find someone who will. Supply and demand. We are on the wrong side of the equation at the present time... clint
Clint, Market trends are cyclical and with our current poor economy and ever-growing unemployment, for now industry is holding most of the the supply and demand marbles … not labor.
Another strategy is to consider opening yourself up to other related courses as opposed to just CJ. For example, try looking for courses in counseling, psychology, sociology or related social science courses. I have about 12 years experience in CJ but I've taught a variety of courses online not just CJ.
