Tenure and Promotion

The policies and procedures for tenure are included in the University policy and procedures regarding faculty tenure University Policy Register (See, 3342-6-14) and the policies and procedures for promotion are included in the University policy and procedures regarding faculty promotion (See, 3342-6-15). Each academic year, tenure and promotion guidelines for Kent and Regional Campus faculty are distributed by the Office of the Provost. Tenure and promotion are separate decisions.

The granting of tenure is a decision that plays a crucial role in determining the quality of university faculty and the national and international status of the University. The awarding of tenure must be based on convincing documented evidence that the faculty member has achieved a significant body of scholarship that has had an impact on her/his discipline, excellence as a teacher, and has provided effective service. The candidate is also expected to continue and sustain, over the long term, a program of high quality teaching, scholarship and service relevant to the mission of the candidate's academic unit and to the mission of the University.

The tenure decision is based on all of the evidence available to determine the candidate's potential to pursue a productive career. This decision is based on the candidate's accomplishments completed during the review period.

Consideration for promotion to Associate Professor is based on recognition for establishing a career likely to achieve national/international prominence as evidenced by the individual faculty members performance as it relates to the School's criteria for Tenure and Promotion. Promotion to Professor recognizes the highest level of university achievement and national/international prominence. Promotion to Professor is evidenced by a record of sustained and highly significant activity as it relates to the School's criteria for Tenure and Promotion.

Many factors and criteria, both subjective and objective, are considered in recommending a faculty member for tenure and advancement in academic rank. The overall evaluation of a candidate for tenure and promotion shall include consideration of the faculty member's personal integrity and professional behavior as recognized by the University community. A sound ethical approach to all aspects of teaching, creative endeavor and research, publication, and the academic profession are expected of all who seek tenure and promotion in the School.