Instructor of Political Science/Public Administration

Instructor of Political Science/Public Administration

The Department of Political Science at the University of South Carolina, Columbia campus, invites applications for a full-time, professional track instructor position in Political Science/Public Administration to begin August 16, 2026. This is a nine-month appointment with a teaching load of eight courses for the academic year. The initial appointment may be for one or three years and is renewable, contingent upon satisfactory performance, departmental needs, and the availability of funding. Professional-track faculty may also become eligible for promotion and renewable contracts up to 5 years in length.

Required Education and Experience: A Ph.D. in political science is required by the start date of the appointment.

Preferred Qualifications: The ideal candidate will be able to contribute teaching to both Political Science undergraduate courses as well as Master of Public Administration graduate courses. Instructor expertise and course offerings should be related to urban planning, grant writing, political geography, and economic development. The standard teaching load is 4:4 (4 courses in both the fall and spring semesters).

Applications must include: (1) a cover letter; (2) a curriculum vitae; (3) a statement of research and teaching interests; (4) two course syllabi; and (5) contact information, including telephone number and email address, for three references. References will be contacted directly for letters of recommendation. The position will remain open until it is filled, and the search committee will begin reviewing applications on April 17, 2026. Please contact the search committee chair, Dr. Carla Flink with any questions.

About University of South Carolina: From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.

The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers state employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at