How to find adjunct jobs

Many adjunct jobs require knowledge of a specific subject and prior teaching experience.

Adjuncts are part-time professors hired on a temporary basis to fill gaps in a university or college curriculum. A job as an adjunct can be an excellent way to earn money and gain valuable teaching experience. Most adjunct jobs require the applicant to have qualifications similar to that of tenured faculty members. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many job openings are expected to be available for adjunct professors.

Instructions

1. Make sure your academic credentials are in order. Almost no colleges, even community colleges, will allow adjuncts to teach without a master's degree. Contact officials at your graduate school for copies of your degree and graduate transcripts.

2. Search at the right time. Look for adjunct jobs as the academic year comes to a close. This is when many department heads seek to fill positions for next year's classes.

3. Prepare a resume and cover letter. Spell out any teaching experience in detail. Note the subjects you have taught, if any, and where you have taught. Draw upon any specialized qualifications that you have such as experience in the culinary or automotive industries, for example, if you do not have direct teaching experience.

4. Prepare a presentation. Adjunct teaching jobs can require you to demonstrate that you have the ability to teach if you haven't done so before. Write a lesson plan based on a subject that you know well. Decide on the aim and structure of the lesson. Prepare any handouts and required reading materials in advance. Practice giving the lesson in front of an audience.

5. Obtain a list of colleges and universities in your area. You can typically find detailed lists online that include private, community and public colleges. Investigate freestanding academic institutions that offer certifications and degrees in your field if you have a specific area of knowledge such as nursing.

6. Get a copy of current course listings from a school where you are interested in teaching. A copy can be available online or in person from the registrar's office. Look closely for gaps in the courses offered. You may have specific knowledge that can be of use to students. Use your knowledge to suggest additional new courses.

7. Contact the chairperson of the department. Submit a cover letter and resume before you call. Ask if there are any staff openings at present.

8. Research online opportunities. Online colleges and universities have adjunct positions. Applicants teach classes via computer and webcam. Some colleges and universities have both a traditional campus and an online presence. Others focus solely on online coursework. Online faculty positions and instructors must meet the same educational and teaching standards as traditional adjunct instructors.

Tips & Warnings

• Many community colleges serve the needs of non-traditional students. Students often work at least part-time. If you are available later at night or on weekends you may be able to better serve the needs of the student body as an adjunct.

References

• Adjunct Professors Online
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Post Secondary Teachers

Resources

• Chronicle of Higher Education: Finding Useful Adjunct Jobs