Lecturer, Ethnic Studies

Details • San Diego, CA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ethnic Studies Department at the University of San Diego, housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, is a vibrant, interdisciplinary department that examines the historical, cultural and social dynamics of race and ethnicity in the United States using comparative, intersectional, transnational, and decolonizing methods. We acknowledge that USD is built on Kumeyaay Indigenous homelands and are especially committed to engaging decolonizing methodologies. Our academic and community-based knowledge curriculum addresses the lives, labor, and cultures of communities of color through ethnic-specific and comparative lenses while inviting students to engage with power, equity, and social justice issues in applied ways. We aim to bridge academic and community knowledges in order to serve the needs of local, tribal, and trans/national communities. Our majors are well prepared for careers in law, education, business, social work, counseling, public health, politics, and graduate study in ethnic studies and related fields. The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person. The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity’s urgent challenges. The USD Ethnic Studies Department seeks applications for a part-time instructor for the following courses for Fall 2026 (in-person modality). ETHN 100 06, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:00-5:20pm, 3 units ETHN 100 05, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30-6:50pm, 3 units ETHN 100: Introduction to Ethnic Studies: A course that introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of Ethnic Studies. Using a comparative and historical perspective, students will examine the languages, family structures, spiritual traditions, economic and social issues, political aspirations, and values of diverse groups within the United States. Emphasis will be on African-Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, Chicanos/Latinos, and Native Americans, but other groups are also discussed. When applying, you may indicate interest in one or more of the sections listed above. Part-time instructors will not teach more than 6 units (faculty load) per semester. This position is included in the Non-tenure Track Bargaining Unit, and the successful applicant employee, subject to the terms of the College’s Collective Bargaining will be a bargaining unit member and will be subject to the University’s Agreement with SEIU Local 721. This is a part-time temporary, non benefit-based position with an anticipated end date of December 31, 2026. The appointment is renewable at the discretion of the University and dependent upon performance and continued funding.

Requirements

• MA degree in Ethnic Studies or sub-field of Ethnic Studies
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
• Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.

Nice To Haves

• PhD degree in Ethnic Studies or sub-field of Ethnic Studies
• Experience teaching undergraduate-level introductory courses in Ethnic Studies or sub-fields of Ethnic Studies

Responsibilities

• Teach ETHN 100 06, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:00-5:20pm, 3 units
• Teach ETHN 100 05, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30-6:50pm, 3 units

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level