The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Lecturer in Criminal Justice in the Department of Law and Criminal Justice , under the School of Management Sciences and Law. The Lecturer in Criminal Justice is responsible for undertaking independent teaching and research in Criminal Justice or related areas and make independent contributions to professional practice and/or expertise. The successful candidate will also coordinate or lead the related activities as appropriate to the discipline and undertake administrative activities of the University.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Education
- Salary: The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- (i) Teach undergraduate and graduate level courses in at least two of the following: Cybercrime and Data Protection; Financial Crime and Investigation; Anti-Money Laundering and Compliance; Digital Forensics; Private Security Management; Anti-Corruption; and Research Methods. The Department reserves the right to allocate other courses in addition to those outlined above;
- (ii) Supervise post graduate and undergraduate student’s projects as need may arise;
- (iii) Participate in the academic, governance and social engagement in Law or related field;
- (iv) Develop, update, and deliver undergraduate and possibly some graduate courses;
- (v) Design and administer assessments that accurately measure student learning outcomes;
- (vi) Present scholarly articles at national and international seminars and conferences;
- (vii) Conduct research and participate in research teams and collaborative projects;
- (viii) Participate in external research in efforts to boost the standing of the university as required;
- (ix) Assist with organizing faculty/ university symposium and conferences of national importance;
- (x) Engage in continuous professional development to stay current in both academic and professional realms locally;
- (xi) Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks;
- (xii) Collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders as needed to effectively deliver duties as defined;
- (xiii) Comply with relevant regulations and legislations;
- (xiv) Write and submit written manuscripts for possible publishing; and
- (xv) Perform any other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Head of School/Departmental Chairperson.
Requirements
- (i) A minimum relevant PhD/Doctorate in Criminology or Criminal Justice;
- (ii) Show evidence of engagement in research;
- (iii) Evidence of governance and social engagement as well as teaching experience at a University or comparable institution will be added advantages.
- NB: In special circumstances a relevant Master’s degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice of at least second class first division (2.1) pass/GPA of at least 3.6 or equivalent may be considered.
- i. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
- ii. Understanding of teaching and principles and practices;
- iii. Understanding of research methodologies, tools and principles;
- iv. Registration or eligibility for registration with Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA) or a relevant and recognized professional body is required.
Salary
The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3530 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3530
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Lecturer in Criminal Justice at the University of Botswana?
A relevant master's degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a closely related field is usually the minimum, though a PhD is often preferred or required for full lecturing posts. Professional experience in the criminal justice system and a record of research or teaching in the field will strengthen your application.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this role?
Your core duties include preparing and delivering lectures, setting and marking assignments and exams, and supervising student projects or dissertations. You are also expected to conduct research, publish in academic journals, and participate in faculty meetings, curriculum development, and community engagement activities.
What should I know about the local work culture and expectations for lecturers in Botswana?
University culture in Botswana values respect for hierarchy, punctuality, and collegiality, and you will be expected to work collaboratively within the faculty. There is a strong emphasis on mentorship of students and on aligning teaching and research with national development priorities, so showing commitment to these values is important.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Lecturer in Criminal Justice at the University of Botswana?
Career progression typically moves from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer, then to Associate Professor and full Professor, based on teaching quality, research output, and service. Promotion is competitive and depends on a strong publication record, successful grant applications, and positive student and peer evaluations.
What benefits are typically offered to academic staff at the University of Botswana?
Academic staff usually receive a benefits package that includes a pension or provident fund, medical aid coverage, and annual leave in line with university policy. Additional perks may include housing or transport allowances and support for research or conference travel, but specifics vary by contract and level.
How should I apply and what do employers in Botswana look for in candidates for this role?
Applications are normally submitted online through the university's official recruitment portal or by email, with a detailed CV, certified copies of qualifications, and a cover letter highlighting your teaching and research experience. Employers in Botswana look for relevant qualifications, local or regional experience where possible, a clear research agenda, and strong communication and interpersonal skills.
