Communication Studies Affiliate Instructor

Position Summary

The Department of Communication Studies at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) invites applications for part‑time affiliate faculty teaching positions. Faculty cultivate student skill in understanding, evaluating, and producing communication. Affiliate instructors are part‑time faculty hired on a contract basis dependent on departmental needs. Applicants may teach in public speaking, communication theory, organizational communication, gender and communication, culture and communication, rhetoric, or interpersonal communication, provided they meet the academic qualifications listed below.

• Teach assigned classes in person or online, delivering course content to students.
• Prepare course materials and lesson plans.
• Grade student work and provide robust, timely feedback.
• Address student questions in accordance with university, college/school, and department policies.
• Provide academic support to students as needed.
• Deliver instruction consistent with course syllabus and learning objectives, and, if required, department course coordination policies.
• Comply with university‑wide student evaluation of instruction policies and peer observation policies.
• Adapt to and learn new modes of instruction encouraged.
• Show sensitivity to the educational needs of a diverse student population.

• Master’s degree in Communication Studies or a relevant discipline.
• Experience working with and sensitivity to the needs of a diverse urban student population, including students of color, LGBTQIA students, low‑income students, first‑generation students, students with disabilities, undocumented students, non‑traditional students, student veterans, and English‑language learners.

• Doctorate in Communication Studies or a relevant discipline.

Affiliate faculty are part‑time, at‑will employees hired to teach on a per credit hour basis for specific classes, usually on a semester‑by‑semester basis. Affiliate faculty are not eligible for benefit coverage under the University’s benefit program. All teaching assignments are dependent on budget and enrollment. Qualified candidates will be expected to teach in person/on campus upon hire.

Rate of pay per credit hour assignment ranges from $1,233 to $1,512, as determined by university policy.

Candidates must apply online through MSU Denver’s career site (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) and submit:

• Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter
• Copies of all unofficial transcripts
• Teaching philosophy

All materials must be uploaded into the resume/cover letter submission field. Only one file may be added, so combine documents into a single PDF if necessary. Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision and dental coverage, a free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans, and a long‑term disability (LTD) plan. Eligibility is limited to full‑time employees; affiliate faculty are ineligible for these benefits.

All finalists for the position undergo background checks prior to employment to ensure a safe and secure environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

MSU Denver values diversity, equity, and inclusion. 58% of students are first‑generation, over 50% are students of color, and the institution is a designated Hispanic‑Serving Institution. The university commits to an equitable learning and working environment for all students, faculty, and staff.

Open until filled.