Part-Time Faculty - Geography, Fall 2026

University of Maine • Portland, ME

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Southern Maine’s Department of Geography and Anthropology invites applications for Part-Time Faculty position to teach Introduction to Land Use Planning (GEO 209) for our fall semester, beginning August 31, 2026. Introduction to Land Use Planning (GEO 209) - This course offers an overview of human/land relationships as they influence contemporary patterns of settlement and use of the land. It will discuss the logic of a planning process as a method of decision making; the formulation of goals and evaluation of alternative courses of action; standards and requirements for specific planning objectives (such as land use, energy, recreation, transportation); and the place of the planning function in government and the role of citizens and private groups. Introduction to basic planning tools and techniques including PERT, aerial photography, and methods of land inventory and classification will be presented. We are seeking student-focused instructors who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. Responsibilities include teaching, assessing student performance, and meeting with students as needed. The instructor will be provided with the learning objectives, program competencies, and suggested topical outline and will be given a previous course syllabus for reference. The USM Department of Geography and Anthropology offers students an interdisciplinary education that explores the relationships between people, places, cultures, and environments. Through innovative teaching, applied research, and community engagement, the department prepares students to address complex social, cultural, and environmental challenges at local, regional, and global scales. Faculty are committed to fostering critical thinking, experiential learning, and a deep understanding of human diversity and the interconnected world. 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. To view the Credit Hour Rates for AY 2026, please refer to the PATFA Contract. 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.

Requirements

• Must have a master’s or doctoral degree in Geography, Anthropology or related field.

Nice To Haves

• Experience teaching at the college level is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Full delivery and grading of the course.
• Teaching.
• Assessing student performance.
• Meeting with students as needed.

Benefits

• Eligible part-time faculty members may elect certain benefits provided by the University of Maine System.
• Learning design consulting and faculty development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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