Political Science Instructors - Open Pool 2026

Colorado State University; United States; Hybrid; USD 46,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University’s Department of Political Science maintains an open pool for adjunct instructors to teach undergraduate courses on an as-needed basis throughout the year. Positions may be 4.5-month or 9-month academic appointments and may include summer teaching; in-person teaching may be required.

Available courses may be online or in-person; CSU Fort Collins is located about an hour north of the Denver metro area.

Qualifications

• Track: Master’s degree in an appropriate field or equivalent.
• Track: Ph.D. or ABD preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teaching, which may include preparing lectures
• Creating assignments
• Holding office hours
• Grading course materials

Education

Master's degree in an appropriate field or equivalent

Ph.D. or ABD

Job description

Position Summary

This is an open pool for adjunct instructors in the Political Science department at Colorado State University. The Department will review applications for instructors to teach undergraduate courses on an as‑needed basis throughout the year. When positions become available, they may be offered 4.5‑mos or 9‑mos academic appointments and may include an option for summer teaching. Positions needed may be for both online or in‑person classes. Please apply knowing that in‑person teaching may be required.

Description of Work Unit

The Department of Political Science at Colorado State University provides quality undergraduate and graduate educational programs to enhance students’ knowledge about government, politics and public affairs. Our curriculum covers the breadth of the Political Science discipline including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy and administration with an additional and unique specialization in environmental politics and policy. Our students develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills and learn to effectively communicate complex ideas. Our faculty and graduate students conduct research to advance knowledge about government and politics and to identify solutions to societal problems in the United States and around the world. Founded in 1870, Colorado State University is among the nation’s leading research universities and enrolls approximately 32,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.

Located an hour north of the Denver metro area, Fort Collins is a vibrant community of approximately 157,000 residents that offers the convenience of a small town with all the amenities of a large city. Fort Collins is situated on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains with views of 14,000 foot peaks, and offers access to numerous cultural, recreational, and outdoor opportunities.

Salary Range

$46,000 - $50,000

Essential Job Duties

• Teaching, which may include preparing lectures
• Creating assignments
• Holding office hours
• Grading course materials

Conditions of Employment

Pre‑employment criminal background check (required for new hires).

Supervisor

This position reports to the Department Chair of Political Science.

Minimum Qualifications

Track: Master’s degree in an appropriate field or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Track: Ph.D. or ABD preferred.

Work Location

Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado.

Work Arrangement

Assignments may be for online or in‑person classes. The attachment of summer teaching may occur.

Open Pool Expiration

This open pool that expires at 11:59 PM on December31,2026.

Employee Benefits

• Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world‑class teaching, research, and service.
• With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work‑life balance.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

Background Check Policy Statement

• Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students.
• The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification.
• Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Company Culture

Inspired by its land‑grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.