Native American Studies Adjunct Instructor

Native American Studies Adjunct Instructor

Great Falls CollegeMSU invites applications for an Adjunct Instructor in Native American Studies to teach courses on an as-needed basis. The current need is for 3–6 credits beginning fall 2026 or later, with instruction delivered on campus in a face-to-face format. Courses may be scheduled in a face-to-face or asynchronous online format to support both traditional and nontraditional students. This position is a temporary, non-benefits eligible appointment. Employment is determined on a course-by-course basis.

Great Falls CollegeMSU is a two-year institution in the Montana University System dedicated to accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. The college offers transfer degrees, career and technical programs, and workforce training to serve a diverse student population across North Central Montana. With small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and strong community partnerships, the college prepares students for immediate employment or seamless transfer. Great Falls College is committed to student success, regional engagement, and meeting workforce needs while fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment.

This role supports Great Falls College's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that serves our region, including meaningful engagement with Native communities across North Central Montana. The instructor will contribute to General Education and transfer pathways while helping students develop cultural understanding, critical thinking, and civic awareness. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to student-centered teaching in a two-year college environment, culturally responsive and inclusive pedagogy, and connecting curriculum to community, history, and lived experience. The role also supports diverse learners, including dual credit, first-generation, and nontraditional students.

Adjunct instructors are hired based on institutional need each semester. Applications may be kept on file for future opportunities. This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Deliver engaging, student-centered instruction that supports successful learning outcomes in Native American Studies and General Education. Support student success and retention, particularly in gateway and transfer courses. Foster positive relationships with students, colleagues, and the broader community, including tribal communities where appropriate. Maintain accurate and timely instructional records in accordance with college and MUS requirements. Align course content with General Education outcomes and integrate with related disciplines such as history, sociology, and humanities. Use effective teaching strategies for diverse student populations with varying levels of academic preparation. Participate in assessment of student learning outcomes and continuous improvement efforts. Maintain professional standards, ethics, and confidentiality in compliance with FERPA and institutional policy. Collaborate with faculty and staff to support coordinated pathways and student support systems. Remain current in disciplinary knowledge, Indigenous scholarship, and teaching practices. Contribute to a collegial and collaborative environment that supports innovation and student success. Reports to the General Studies Division Director or designee.

In alignment with Montana Board of Regents Policy 730: Master's degree in Native American Studies or a closely related field; or Master's degree in a related discipline and at least 9 graduate credits in Native American Studies or a closely related area.

Teaching experience in a community college, higher education, or dual credit setting. Experience working with or engaging Native communities and perspectives. Demonstrated ability to teach diverse student populations, including first-generation and nontraditional students. Experience with active learning, inclusive pedagogy, or culturally responsive teaching. Familiarity with two-year college mission, transfer pathways, and workforce-connected education.

Ability to deliver clear and engaging instruction. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to integrate instructional technology such as Canvas. Ability to create inclusive learning environments for students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented college environment. Commitment to student success, access, and affordability. Strong organizational skills for managing course delivery and communication. Ability to maintain effective professional relationships and follow institutional policies.