Political Science Lecturer

About the Job

The Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota occasionally needs lecturers to teach courses that cannot be staffed by regular faculty or graduate student instructors. These positions are temporary and part‑time, and are not associated with a specific vacancy. This search establishes a pool of applicants for openings during the 2025/26 academic year.

Applicants will be selected from this pool on an as‑needed basis throughout the academic year. The role is a temporary, non‑tenured, Academic Professional and Administrative (P&A) position, paid on a per‑course basis. These appointments are semester‑by‑semester and employment is contingent upon the course meeting its enrollment target. Lecturers will be expected to teach undergraduate students in assigned course(s), hold office hours to assist and advise students, respond to student and department inquiries, turn in grades, attend required meetings, and submit student evaluations.

An in‑person review of teaching will be conducted during the course.

• Ph.D. in political science or a closely related field.
• Two years of teaching experience in a college or university.

• Preference will be given to applicants with knowledge of and/or experience in the University of Minnesota teaching methodology.
• Three or more years of teaching experience in a college or university.
• Must be capable of delivering high‑quality instruction to a diverse student body.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Pay Range: $11,000 - $14,000 per course; based on education, qualifications, and experience. Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor‑Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp‑Casual classifications. Note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. Compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position(s), please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application and attach a cover letter and curriculum vitae. Additional documents may be requested later. Applications will not be acknowledged but will be reviewed when openings occur throughout the academic year. Applications must be updated or resubmitted for each academic year.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ or call (612) 624‑8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

To learn more about diversity at the U: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Part‑time

Job function: Education and Training

Industries: Higher Education