Political Science Instructors - Open Pool 2026

Job Description

Position Summary:

This is an open pool for adjunct instructors in the Political Science department a 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 maybe required. Salary is dependent on degree type, teaching load, and service expectations.

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:

The essential job duties will be 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).

Supervision:

This position reports to the Department Chair of Political Science.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requirements for this position are a master's degree in an appropriate field or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or ABD preferred.

Application Instructions:

This is an open pool posting. Applications will be reviewed as hiring needs arise, and qualified applicants may be contacted by individual faculty members if a suitable opportunity becomes available.

To apply, please upload the following documents:
1. Cover Letter
2. Current Resume or CV
3. A copy of Unofficial Transcripts (optional)

This open pool that expires at 11:59 PM on December 31, 2026. Applicants wishing to be considered after this date must reapply.

Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

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, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. 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.

EEO

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.