Professor Jobs in Tucson, AZ

The University of Arizona’s Sport and Recreation Leadership program seeks an Assistant Professor of Practice (PoP) to lead its coursework in inclusive and adaptive sport and physical activity. This faculty member will teach undergraduate and graduate courses that prepare students to design, coach, and lead physical activity programs for people of all abilities, from elementary-aged children to adult athletes. We are looking for someone with a strong background in adaptive athletics who can turn that experience into practical, accessible learning experiences for students.

This position is a rare opportunity to join a campus that is home to one of the premier adaptive athletics programs in the United States (UA Adaptive Athletics). The faculty member will work closely with the SRL Director and SRL faculty and will sustain partnerships with campus and community adaptive sport programs, including Adaptive Athletics, giving students hands-on connections to a nationally recognized program.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; sick leave and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

• Teach four courses per semester, including for example (but not limited to):
  • SRL 504, Inclusive Coaching and Adapted Physical Activity Programming
  • SRL 373, Inclusive Physical Activity Programming for Diverse and Special Populations
  • SRL 352, Exercise, Games & Sports: Building Character and Community
  • Other SRL courses as needed
• Maintain relationships with campus and community partners, including Adaptive Athletics, Campus Recreation, local school districts, City of Tucson and Pima County Parks and Recreation, the Southern Arizona Adapted Sports program, as well as the Coronado and Arizona Special Olympics.
• Bring practicum, service-learning, and field-based experiences (like internships) into courses and the SRL program more broadly.
• Mentor SRL graduate and undergraduate students; particularly those with interests and ambitions related to adaptive sport and inclusive recreation.
• Contribute to SRL program planning and curriculum development, including growth in adaptive and inclusive programming.
• Serve on committees at the department, college, and university levels.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including students, faculty, families, and school partners.
• Familiarity with university student support services (e.g., DRC, TRiO).
• Demonstrated organizational skills and attention to detail.

• PhD or EdD.
• At least three years of professional experience in adaptive athletics, adapted physical activity, or inclusive sport programming (e.g., coaching, instructing, administering, or directing programs for athletes with disabilities).
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of practices that support accessibility and participation for individuals with varying physical abilities in sport and physical activity.
• Experience working in collaborative, team-based environments.

• Terminal degree in adapted physical activity, kinesiology, sport management, recreation, physical education, or a closely related field.
• College-level teaching experience (including online courses), especially in adapted physical activity, inclusive coaching, or program design.
• Experience coaching or administering adaptive sport at the collegiate, community, or elite level.
• Background in physical education, such as K-12 PE teaching experience or designing/delivering youth physical activity programs.
• An established network in adaptive physical activity and sport, particularly in Arizona or the Southwest.
• Experience advising or mentoring students in higher education.

Applications received by December 4, 2026, will receive priority consideration.

For your application to be considered complete, please submit the following four documents:

• Cover Letter
• Current Curriculum Vitae/Resume
In the first additional document slot
• Personal Teaching Philosophy Statement
In the second additional document slot
• Name and contact information (phone and email) for THREE references