Part-Time Faculty - Communication & Media Studies, Academic Year 2026

The University of Southern Maine’s Communication and Media Studies Department invites applications for part-time faculty.

We are seeking student‑focused instructors who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. The position responsibilities include course preparation and teaching either a traditional in‑person or online asynchronous course section of media writing courses in print and multimedia journalism during the regular fall and spring terms. The instructor is responsible for responding to student course inquiries through electronic mail, phone, or in‑person, and posting final grades in a timely manner.

The course sections and modalities will be determined by the department chair.

Courses to be taught may include but are not limited to:

• Writing for Popular Print Media (CMS 202) – This introduction to magazine writing provides students with an opportunity to conceive, craft, and publish original work in different genres for different markets. There is a strong emphasis on the utility of writing as a means of organizing and communicating information, as in reporting and also as a medium for more expressive and entertaining content.
• Topics in Media Writing I (CMS 205) & Topics in Media Writing II (CMS 300) – A selection of courses varying in content from term to term. Students should consult their media studies advisor for detailed descriptions.
• Journalism Reporting and Writing (CMS 215) – This course cultivates journalistic/public affairs research and writing. Students learn how to find and develop human and textual primary sources. Likewise, they learn and practice journalistic form and concise, accessible written expression, and appreciate and model the liberal ideals of public dialogue, debate, and democratic engagement.
• Writing the Feature Story (CMS 302) – Students generate story ideas according to their own interests and target them for publication in specific markets. Class time focuses on perfecting writing and editorial skills, developing style and a field of interest, building an accomplished portfolio, and examining the practical and philosophical challenges of writing professionally. There is a strong emphasis on taking the initiative and working independently.
• Writing Opinion:
  Editorials and Columns (CMS 305) – This is a writing‑intensive course that provides students with the basic skills for writing editorials, columns, and journalistic essays. The emphasis is on economical, persuasive, and strongly argumentative styles of writing. Students will read, analyze, and discuss throughout the semester the work of leading U.S. essayist/columnists.

Part‑time faculty members are paid on a credit hour basis based on prior teaching experience, as determined by the Part‑Time Faculty Association of Maine (PATFA), an affiliate of the national American Federation of Teachers (AFT) union. Eligible part‑time faculty members may elect certain benefits provided by the University of Maine System. In addition, the Center for Academic Innovation provides learning‑design consulting and faculty development opportunities to help faculty create engaging programs, courses and lesson plans grounded in evidence‑based best practices for every modality.

• M.A. or M.S. in Communication, Mass Communication, or an equivalent degree.
• Professional work experience in media writing, print, online or multimedia journalism.
• 1 to 3 years of experience teaching in post‑secondary institutions.

• Cover letter describing qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae or resume.
• Contact information for three professional references.
• Copies of student course evaluations of teaching effectiveness from post‑secondary institutions.
• Evidence of experience and commitment to working with students from diverse populations and an interest in innovative teaching practices.

We will begin reviewing applications on an ongoing basis. This position will remain open until filled. We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support. Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

The University of Maine System is an…