Faculty Minimum Qualifications

Faculty teaching at National Park College must meet the qualifications outlined in the “Faculty Minimum Qualifications Chart.” When faculty members are employed based on equivalent experience, as defined by the Higher Learning Commission, the institution defines a minimum threshold of experience and an evaluation process. These definitions may include length of prior service to the college in another position, professional certifications, and past work experience in relevant professions. The following procedures for hiring new faculty apply to decisions in which equivalent experience must be taken into account.

1. If a search committee identifies a candidate of interest that does not meet the minimum qualifications defined in this policy (5.120), the Vice President for Academic Affairs will review the equivalent experience and other qualifications of the applicant with the direct supervisor of the potential new faculty member. The advisory board for the program may also be consulted about the prospective employee’s equivalent experience.
2. If the question arises whether the candidate meets the minimum qualifications or has the equivalent “tested experience” to fulfill the teaching position, then the Vice President for Academic Affairs may call together a temporary Faculty Credentials Task Force of three to four faculty from several academic divisions to review the redacted hiring materials and to determine whether the candidate meets the level of tested experience to warrant a letter of variance and hiring.
3. If a position is offered based upon the Faculty Credentials Task Force’s recommendations, the new employee and the Vice President for Academic Affairs will negotiate any criteria for employment.
4. Upon agreement, a final contract will be presented to the Board of Trustees for ratification.
5. If the equivalent experience is acceptable, a letter of variance will be kept on file outlining the qualifications of the faculty member and justifying their continued employment.