Program Description
The Maricopa Community Colleges Adjunct Faculty Tier Progression (AFTP) is designed to enhance the quality of education by promoting continuous growth among adjunct faculty. All adjunct faculty automatically start at Tier 1, and through professional development (PD) progress to Tier 2 and 3. Adjunct faculty are required to complete a minimum of 25 clock hours of MCCCD pre-approved faculty professional growth (FPG) programs to attain Tier 2. Progressing to Tier 3 involves completing a minimum of 50 clock hours of professional development. Advancement to Tiers go into effect at the beginning of the following academic year of accumulating the clock hours.
The AFTP is designed to encourage adjunct faculty to deepen their expertise and specialization in specific areas of teaching. Adjunct faculty engage in FPG pre-approved workshops, seminars, conferences, and collaborative projects that focus on various pedagogical and technological techniques, such as curriculum design, learner-centered approaches, effective integration of technology, etc. These insights directly translate into improved classroom experiences for students by fostering a more engaging and effective learning environment.
Adjunct faculty’s increased proficiency and knowledge directly impact student achievement. By implementing innovative teaching strategies, they can address diverse learning styles and cater to individual needs, ultimately boosting student engagement, participation, and comprehension.
In essence, the MCCCD’s Adjunct Faculty Tier Progression aligns professional growth with improved student learning, achievement, and success. By investing in their own development, adjunct faculty cultivate a culture of continuous improvement that positively influences the educational journey of every student. Through both Tier 2 and Tier 3, adjuncts are empowered to create enriched learning experiences that foster greater student success and equip them with the skills needed to excel in their academic pursuits.
Please see the Adjunct Faculty Tiers page in the Employee Portal for more information