Part-Time Faculty - History, Spring 2026

The University of Southern Maine’s Department of History is seeking part-time instructor applicants for our Spring 2026 semester, beginning January 20, 2026.

The successful candidate will be able to teach undergraduate courses within the Department’s History degree program.  Courses to be taught may include but are not limited to:  

Origins of Mediterranean Civilizations to 750 CE (HTY 101), In Person - This course explores the necessary components required for creating human civilizations around the Mediterranean Sea from the Paleolithic to 750 CE. Topics considered include constructed realities, religion, gender systems, human violence, political models, and more.

United States History to 1877 (HTY 131), Online Asynchronous - A basic survey and introduction to the field of United States History, covering the political, social, and economic development of the United States through Reconstruction.

United States History Since 1877 (HTY 132), In Person - A thematic treatment of the United States and its peoples from 1877 to the present. Chronological coverage of the nation’s political, social, economic, intellectual, institutional, and diplomatic development provides the context for addressing the personalities and events of the country and its relations with the larger world.

We are seeking a student-focused instructor who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. 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.

The University of Southern Maine's Department of History offers a diverse and engaging curriculum that explores global, national, and regional histories. The department emphasizes critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, preparing students for careers in education, law, public history, and more. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning and experiential opportunities, students benefit from small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and connections to Maine’s rich historical resources.

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 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 varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

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:

• PhD in History or related field.   
• Prior experience teaching in college instruction.

How to Appl