Developmental and Cognitive Psychology Instructor

University of South Carolina; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Carolina is seeking a full-time Developmental and Cognitive Psychology Instructor for the Columbia campus. This role involves teaching undergraduate courses, with a focus on cognitive and developmental psychology. Applicants should possess at least a master’s degree in Psychology, with a Ph.D. preferred, and a demonstrated excellence in teaching. The position starts on August 16, 2026, or January 1, 2027, and is not considering remote options. Applications are being reviewed until filled.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a master’s degree in Psychology required; Ph.D. preferred.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching required.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses at all levels with a teaching load of 4-4.
• Participate in departmental service as needed.

Skills

Teaching experience

Expertise in Cognitive Psychology

Expertise in Developmental Psychology

Education

Master’s degree in Psychology

Ph.D. in Psychology (preferred)

Job description

Developmental and Cognitive Psychology Instructor

Department: CAS Psychology

Part/Full Time: Full Time

Advertised Salary Range: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.

About UofSC

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Advertised Job Summary

The faculty of the Department of Psychology at the University of South Carolina, Columbia campus invites applications for a 9-month, full time, professional-track position at the rank of Instructor to begin August 16, 2026, or January 1, 2027. It is an annual appointment that may be renewed contingent on Dean’s approval, satisfactory performance, departmental needs, and the availability of funding. The opportunity for promotion is available based on years of service and evidence of successful performance. The successful candidate is expected to teach undergraduate courses at all levels as described above. The expected teaching load is 4-4, however, course releases may be given based on additional service in the Department, College, and University.

Please note that this position is advertised as "on campus"; remote options will not be considered.

Department Overview

The Department of Psychology is seeking a full-time Instructor to join our vibrant, innovative, and expanding department. The department serves approximately 2000 majors with 50 tenure track and 19 instructional faculty. Our vision is to advance knowledge and solve real-world problems to improve health and well-being through high quality and impactful teaching. The broad research foci of the department include child and family, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, quantitative psychology, school psychology, and clinical community psychology with an emphasis on diversity and health disparities. We are also increasing our experiential learning opportunities. Given these exciting and innovative teaching advancements, coupled with increasing enrollment, we seek to expand our Professional Track Faculty to meet both continuing and changing needs.

Required Education and Experience

• Applicants must have a minimum of a master’s degree (Ph.D. preferred) in hand by the time of appointment in the field of Psychology and demonstrated excellence in teaching.

Preferred Qualifications

• The successful candidate will contribute to this vision by having previous teaching experience in general introductory psychology courses (e.g., Introduction to Psychology, Statistics, Research Methods) and have a focus in one of the areas listed below.
• Cognitive Psychology: expertise is needed to cover courses such as Survey of Learning and Memory, Cognitive Psychology, Sensation and Perception, or related topics.
• Developmental Psychology: expertise in developmental psychology to teach introductory and specialized coursework, including courses such as Lifespan, Child, Adolescent, Exceptional Children, Cognitive Development, or related topics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Not specified.

Special Instructions to Applicant

Applications must be submitted through the University’s online employment system USC Jobs at https://uscjobs.sc.edu/. Applications must include:

1. A cover letter that describes your teaching and research interests (if applicable).
2. A curriculum vitae.
3. A statement of teaching philosophy.
4. The names and email addresses of 3 references.
5. At least 3 signed letters of recommendation.

Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled. For inquiries, contact [e-mail].

Application Deadline

This position is open until filled.

EEO Statement

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.