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3.0   FACULTY CLASSIFICATION

3.1  Introduction

Faculty classification is the institutions system for designation of faculty, providing rank and titles to be used for faculty appointments, reappointments and promotion. Additionally, the system outlines the nature of and time commitment to academic responsibilities for each classification of faculty.

The purpose of faculty classification is to (1) promote optimal working relationships among faculty and staff, (2) promote individual professional development and (3) provide structure consistent with the mission and goals of the Medical College of Georgia.

3.2  MCG Policies

The Medical College of Georgia will annually prepare and submit to the Chancellor a list of positions designated as tenure and non-tenure-track positions (Board of Regents Policy Manual 803.10). Requests for position designation or for conversion during the budget year will also be submitted to the Chancellor for approval (Board of Regents Policy Manual 803.10).

Transfer from a tenure to non-tenure-track position shall be supported on the basis of the nature of the position rather than on the nature of the performance (Board of Regents Policy Manual 803.10). In addition, positions designated as non-tenure-track positions or as tenure-track positions may be converted to the other type only with approval by the Chancellor and the Board of Regents (Board of Regents Policy Manual 803.10). Normally that transfer should occur no later than the fifth year of the appointment. An MCG faculty transferring to a non-tenure-track position shall not be considered for a new appointment to a tenure-track position for at least two years.

3.3  Classification, Rank and Title

By Regents policy, the faculty of the institution consists of the Corps of Instruction and Administrative Officers. Academic rank may refer to tenure or non-tenure-track faculty whereas administrative titles carry no rights of tenure.

3.3.1  Tenure-Track

1. Definition
   
   Tenure-track is established at the time of initial appointment. Significant performance, as defined by school policy, is expected in all three areas of academic appointment: teaching, research/scholarly achievement and service. Outstanding performance is expected in at least two areas that must include research/scholarly achievement. Faculty on the tenure-track must be classified as full-time which is denoted by service on a 100% workload basis for a fiscal-year or an academic-year contract.
2. Ranks
   (1) Instructor
   (2) Assistant Professor
   (3) Associate Professor
   (4) Professor
   

3.3.2  Non-Tenure-Track

1. Definition, (Board of Regents Policy Manual 803.10)

Institutions of the University System are authorized to establish professional positions designated as non-tenure-track positions. Non-tenure-track positions may be established for full-time professional personnel employed in administrative positions or to staff research, technical, special, career and public service programs or programs which are anticipated to have a limited life span or which are funded, fully or partially, through non-system sources. There shall be no maximum time limitation for service in positions in this category. The following provisions shall apply to all non-tenure-track professional personnel:

1. Individuals employed in non-tenure-track positions shall not be eligible for consideration for the award of tenure.
2. Probationary credit toward tenure shall not be awarded for service in non-tenure-track positions.
3. Notice of intention to renew or not to renew contracts of non-tenure-track personnel who have been awarded academic rank (Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor, Assistant Research Scientist, Research Scientist, Senior Research Scientist, Principal Research Scientist) shall follow the schedule required for tenure-track personnel. This schedule of notification shall not apply to other professional personnel.
4. Individuals employed in non-tenure-track positions may apply, on an equal basis with other candidates, for tenure-track positions which may become available.

Non-tenure-track is usually established at the time of initial appointment. Outstanding performance is expected in specific areas of job assignment. Competency in research/scholarly achievement and professional development associated with patient care must be achieved. Career progress may include appointment to a tenure-track position. Appointments can be made for either full-time or part-time workload.

2. Ranks
   (1) Instructor
   (2) Assistant Professor
   (3) Associate Professor
   (4) Professor
   
   
3. Research faculty
   (1) Definition

The research scientist track is established at the time of initial appointment. Outstanding performance is expected in specific areas of job assignment. Persons appointed as research scientists usually do not conduct independent research. Teaching related to research is encouraged but not required. Appointments can be made for either full-time or part-time workload.

(2) Ranks

(a) Assistant Research Scientist
(b) Research Scientist
(c) Senior Research Scientist
(d) Principal Research Scientist

3.3.3  Off-track

1. Clinical Faculty (See separate document Clinical & Adjunct Faculty Appointment)

(1) Definition

Non-paid faculty involved in patient care activity or other service related to a department or discipline. Usually teach, but not necessarily.

(2) Ranks

(a) Clinical Instructor
(b) Assistant Clinical Professor
(c) Associate Clinical Professor
(d) Clinical Professor

2. Adjunct Faculty (See separate document Clinical & Adjunct Faculty Appointment)

(1) Definition

Non-paid faculty involved in teaching, research, and service not related to patient care.

(2) Ranks

(a) Adjunct Instructor
(b) Assistant Adjunct Professor
(c) Associate Adjunct Professor
(d) Adjunct Professor

3. Emeritus Faculty (See separate document Emeritus Appointment Criteria)

Approved by Academic Council
September 18, 1997

Editorial Revisions Approved by Executive Committee
November 4, 1999

SECTION 4

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All rights reserved.

January 18, 2007