2.1.5.6 Doctoral Degree Equivalents

Since the earned doctoral degree is the highest academic degree awarded by institutions of higher education in the United States, equivalence must be some combination of earned degrees, further study, and experience/professional contributions. Because these factors will vary in each instance, each individual case must be judged on its own merits and should be evaluated by the academic unit committee, the unit supervisor, the appropriate Dean, and the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs. Further, because of the obvious variations, the acceptance of a given degree in combination with certain study experience and professional contributions does not establish that specific degree as a precedential standard for its acceptance in other combinations.

2.1.6 Qualifications for Appointment as Adjunct Faculty

Adjunct faculty must meet University criteria and the Criteria for Accreditation of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, for each course to be taught by the adjunct faculty member. It shall be the responsibility of the academic administrator of the academic unit (College, School, or Division) in which the course is listed to ensure that the adjunct faculty member is so qualified and each recommendation for appointment constitutes certification by that administrator that the adjunct faculty member has the required qualifications.

2.1.7 Graduate Faculty

2.1.7.1 Definition of Graduate Faculty Status

Full-time faculty members, faculty with administrative appointments and full-time staff (such as researchers with teaching credentials) can be granted the status of Full or Associate Graduate Faculty. A graduate faculty member is qualified to teach in graduate programs at Kentucky State University, or would be qualified if a graduate program were offered in the faculty member's area.

2.1.7.2 Qualifications for Graduate Faculty

To be qualified for the status of Graduate Faculty, a full-time faculty member, faculty-administrator, or a full-time staff must:

  • Be employed full-time at Kentucky State University.
  • Hold an earned doctorate or the appropriate terminal degree from an accredited institution.
  • Have a record of effective undergraduate and/or graduate teaching at the university level.
  • Hold the rank of Associate Professor or Professor, granted by KSU either at the time of initial appointment or through the University’s Promotion and Tenure process.

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