Full-Time Faculty Sufficiency Policy

McNeese State University is committed to maintaining academic quality through the expertise of qualified faculty. To support the University’s educational mission, a strong core of full-time faculty is essential for effective instruction, curriculum oversight, and engagement in out-of-class responsibilities. This policy aligns with SACSCOC Principles of Accreditation Core Requirement 6.1 (full-time faculty) and Standard 6.2.b (program faculty).

McNeese aims for at least 60% of courses in each major discipline to be taught by full-time faculty (tenured, tenure-track, visiting, non-tenure-track, or other full-time designation). Exceptions may be considered when part-time faculty with specialized certifications or unique expertise enhance the learning experience.

In unforeseen circumstances, such as the unexpected departure of a full-time faculty member, the University may temporarily adjust this ratio. Appropriately credentialed part-time faculty may teach at a higher rate than the standard guideline for no more than one academic year to ensure student progress.

Institutional Research & Effectiveness (IRE) reviews the percentage of courses taught by full-time faculty on a semesterly basis and reports the status to the provost and vice president for academic affairs. When the percentage of full-time faculty falls below the policy threshold, a corrective action plan is developed to ensure policy is met and an interim instructional plan is reviewed and approved according to established IRE procedures.

Communication

This policy is distributed via the University Policies webpage.