Adjunct Pool (2026-27) - Psychology

Point Loma Nazarene University; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 13,000; Part time

Job summary

Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA, seeks an adjunct instructor to teach psychology courses, from introductory to advanced clinical topics, beginning Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027.

The position is part-time with compensation based on a 3-unit full-semester appointment. Applicants should hold an MA for lower-division or a PhD for upper-division courses and demonstrate commitment to Christian liberal arts education.

Qualifications

• MA for lower-division courses or PhD for upper-division courses (licensed if conducting student-group supervision).
• Teaching experience and demonstrated effectiveness with diverse students preferred.
• Commitment to Christian liberal arts education and PLNU values.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction in psychology, including introductory psychology and/or advanced clinical topics.
• Work with diverse colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Engage in personal scholarship and student mentorship where possible.
• Participate in departmental activities and governance.
• Help prepare students for post-graduate careers and vocation.
• Be available to meet with students as necessary.

Skills

Teaching

Curriculum design

Diversity and inclusion

Education

MA for lower-division courses

PhD for upper-division courses

Job description

Job Summary

PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition, offering quality undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. The School of Behavioral & Social Sciences is seeking candidates for an adjunct teaching position in psychology. Responsibilities will begin Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 and will include teaching a wide variety of courses, including introductory psychology or advanced clinical topics. Review of applications will occur continually as courses become available. A commitment to excellent teaching at the undergraduate level in a Christian liberal arts context and a potential for scholarship and service is essential for a successful candidate.

Job Status

Part time

Salary

Adjunct pay: Using a 3‑unit full semester appointment as a pay guide, the adjunct pay range is $5,013–$6,684. Actual salary will be determined by the number of units taught.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction in the area of psychology, including introductory psychology and/or advanced clinical topics.
• Work strategically with diverse colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
• Engage in personal scholarship and scholarship with students (where possible).
• Participate in departmental activities and governance.
• Contribute to preparing students for their post‑graduate career and helping them discover who they are called to become.
• Be available to meet with students as necessary.

Qualifications

• Education: MA for lower‑division courses or PhD for upper‑division courses (licensed if conducting student‑group supervision).
• Experience: 3 years of teaching or professional experience preferred; demonstrated effectiveness in teaching students from diverse backgrounds preferred.
• Philosophical: Thorough commitment to the concept of Christian liberal arts education and a desire to work in a Christian university; supportive of the university’s religious and educational goals and its sponsoring denomination.
• Personal: Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement; agreement to live in accordance with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant.

Selection Process

1. Phone/Zoom interview.
2. Dialogue with students and faculty in the Department of Sociology & Social Work.
3. Lecture presented to faculty and students in the department.
4. Evidence of successful teaching (if applicable).
5. Interview with the Program Lead / Associate Dean.
6. Interview with the Dean of the School of Behavioral & Social Sciences.
7. Interview with the Provost.
8. Interview with the President of the University.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Personal Faith
• Philosophy of Teaching in Christian Higher Education
• Names and contacts for three references, at least one of whom can speak to teaching potential (references will be contacted only if the applicant is advanced as a finalist).
• Unofficial transcripts for the highest degree completed.

Applicants will also need to provide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate universities attended before a contract is issued. The job offer is contingent on successful completion of a background check.

Hilient faculty who are hired will remain in the adjunct pool for the upcoming school year only. To be reconsidered for the following school year, applicants must reapply.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. PLNU actively encourages applications from members of underrepresented groups in higher education. We consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local “Fair Chance” laws.

Contact

For questions regarding application materials, contact the Office of Human Resources at [e-mail] or the Search Committee Chair at [e-mail].