Part-Time Faculty - Department of Theatre, 2025/2026 Academic Year

The Department of Theatre at the University of Southern Maine is seeking part-time instructors applicants for the upcoming academic year.  Our Fall 2025 semester begins September 1, 2025.  

Through a wide-ranging production season, interdisciplinary collaborations, community and school outreach, and interactive theatre experiences, the University of Southern Maine’s Department of Theatre contributes to the rich cultural, creative, and artistic life of the greater Portland area and the state of Maine

The successful candidate will be able to teach the following undergraduate courses:

Practicum in Stage Lighting (THE 105) - A course focusing on the practical application of contemporary stage lighting technology and the implementation of a lighting plot, as well as working on University productions.  

Fall 2025 Semester:  Thursdays, 2-5PM, Gorham Campus, September 2 – December 19, 2025
Spring 2026 Semester: Thursdays, 2-5PM, Gorham Campus, January 22, 2025 – May 8, 2026

Practicum in Costuming (THE 104) - A course focusing on sewing skills and costume construction, as well as working on University theatre productions.

Fall 2025 Semester: Tuesdays, 2-5PM, Gorham Campus, September 2 – December 19, 2025
Spring 2026 Semester: Tuesdays, 2-5PM, Gorham Campus, January 22, 2025 – May 8, 2025

Public Speaking (THE 170) - An introductory course in the art of public discourse. Primarily a lecture-performance course, students will learn the basics of informative and persuasive speaking by writing and giving a variety of speeches. Constructive feedback will assist students in identifying, developing, and strengthening the physical and vocal skills needed to engage an audience and communicate effectively.

Spring 2026 Semester: Tuesdays, January 22, 2025 – May 1, 2026

We are seeking student-focused instructors who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. All Special Education programs are fully online with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses.  Synchronous sessions meet using the Zoom conferencing platform and meet in the late afternoons and evenings so that those currently working in schools can attend.  Responsibilities include developing the course, teaching, assessing student performance, and meeting with students as needed. The instructor will be provided with the course learning objectives, program competencies, and suggested topical outline and will be given a previous course syllabus available for reference.

Part-time faculty members are paid on a credit hour basis based on prior teaching experience. 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 to create engaging programs, courses and lesson plans grounded in evidence-based best practices for every modality.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates diverse perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  USM encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, veterans, and those with differing abilities, experiences, and cultural perspectives.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness. 

Required Qualifications:

THE 104 &am