Job Description

Title: Lecturer of Political Science

Employee Classification: Lecturer

Campus: University of North Texas - Dallas

Division: DAL-Academic Aff & Stdnt Success

SubDivision-Department: DAL-School of Lib Arts & Sciences

Department: DAL-History & Political Science-514180

Job Location: Dallas

Salary: Commensurate with experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility:

About Us - Values Overview

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.
We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.
Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu

Department Summary

The Political Science Department is a cornerstone within academic institutions, offering a comprehensive exploration of American and foreign political systems, theories, institutions, and behaviors. Through interdisciplinary approaches, it examines the dynamics of power, governance, public policy, and international relations. Key areas of study often include comparative politics, political theory, American politics, public administration, and global politics. Faculty members are typically experts in their respective fields, engaging students in critical analysis, research, and debate on contemporary and historical issues. The department often fosters an environment conducive to understanding the complexities of political phenomena and equipping students with the analytical skills and knowledge necessary for careers in government, public service, law, academia, and beyond.

The University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas) invites applications for a full-time Lecturer position in Political Science, beginning in Spring semester 2026.

The successful candidate will be expected to achieve excellence in teaching and to assist in further development of the UNT Dallas Political Science program. UNT Dallas offers faculty the unique opportunity to help shape the character of a learner-focused comprehensive university.

Applications will be reviewed until the search is closed.

As a young university in a growing sector of Dallas, UNT Dallas is committed to academic excellence, community engagement, and student success. UNT Dallas is part of the University of North Texas System, which also includes UNT Denton, the UNT Health Sciences Center, and the UNT Dallas College of Law.
This position is responsible for teaching four (4) courses per semester. The successful candidate will also be expected to participate in such service activities such as curriculum development, online course development, project development, and committee leadership.

The ideal candidate will be committed to advancing UNT Dallas’s Classroom to Career initiative—an innovative effort that bridges academic achievement and career readiness. This includes strengthening industry partnerships, embedding experiential learning (such as internships, research, and service learning) into the curriculum, integrating career and character competencies, and fostering AI fluency and essential power skills like communication, adaptability, teamwork, and leadership. The candidate should also support the development of new academic programs aligned with workforce needs and pathways to family-sustaining careers.

The University of North Texas System and its component institutions are committed to equal opportunity and comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University of North Texas System and its component institutions do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, and employment practices.

Minimum Qualifications

• Educational Credentials: A master's degree in political science, Public Administration, or a closely related field is generally required. In some cases, a Ph.D. may be preferred, particularly for more advanced or specialized courses.
• Teaching Experience: Demonstrated experience in teaching political science courses at the college or university level is essential. This can include serving as a graduate teaching assistant, adjunct instructor, or full-time faculty member.
• Expertise in Political Science: Strong knowledge and expertise in political science, including various subfields such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, American politics, public policy, or others relevant to the courses being taught.
• Effective Communication Skills: The ability to communicate complex political concepts effectively to students is crucial. This includes both verbal communication during lectures and discussions, as well as written communication for assignments, feedback, and grading.
• Commitment to Student Success: A dedication to fostering student learning and engagement, as well as the ability to provide support and mentorship to students outside of the classroom.
• Collegiality and Professionalism: The capacity to work collaboratively with colleagues within the political science department and across the institution, as well as professionalism in interactions with students and staff.
• Continued Professional Development: A commitment to staying current with developments in the field of political science through research, professional development activities, and participation in academic conferences or workshops.
• These qualifications serve as a general guideline, and specific requirements may vary depending on the institution and the needs of the department. Candidates should carefully review the job posting for any additional qualifications or preferences outlined by the hiring institution.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge Areas

• Political Systems & Theory: Deep understanding of political ideologies, institutions, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy.
• Law and Government: Familiarity with legal codes, government regulations, and democratic processes.
• Education & Pedagogy: Knowledge of curriculum design, instructional methods, and assessment strategies.
• Research Methods: Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research, including data analysis and survey design

Skills

• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication for lectures, publications, and student engagement.
• Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex political issues and encourage informed debate.
• Instructional Design: Creating syllabi, lesson plans, and learning activities that meet academic standards.
• Research & Publication: Conducting original research and publishing in academic journals.
• Mentorship: Advising students on academic progress and career pathways.

Abilities

• Facilitate Learning: Create inclusive and engaging classroom environments that promote student participation.
• Adaptability: Stay current with political developments and integrate them into teaching.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with colleagues, committees, and external partners.
• Leadership: Guide students and contribute to departmental initiatives.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred qualifications for a lecturer in political science often include:
1. Ph.D. in Political Science or ABD: While a master's degree may be the minimum requirement, many institutions prefer candidates with a Ph.D. This advanced degree demonstrates a deeper understanding of political science laws and institutions, including policies and practice.
2. Teaching Experience: Extensive experience teaching political science courses at the college or university level is highly valued. Previous experience designing syllabi, leading discussions, and assessing student learning outcomes (SLOs) can strengthen an applicant's candidacy.
3. Research Publications and Scholarly Activity: A record of research activity, conference presentations or posterboards, or other scholarly activity demonstrates active engagement in the field of political science and contributes to the academic reputation of the department.
4. Innovative Teaching Methods: Experience with innovative and effective teaching methods, including High Impact Practices (HIP), the integration of technology, active learning strategies, and experiential learning opportunities, can set candidates apart.
5. Experience teaching and mentoring students from heterogeneous learning backgrounds is valued.
6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Experience collaborating with colleagues from other disciplines or participating in interdisciplinary research initiatives can demonstrate versatility and adaptability in teaching and scholarly activities.
7. Professional Engagement: Involvement in professional organizations, service on academic committees, and participation in community engagement activities related to political science can indicate a candidate's dedication to the field and to broader societal issues.
8. Strong Letters of Recommendation: Can provide at least 3 letters of recommendation from supervisors, colleagues, peers, or mentors who can attest to the candidate's teaching effectiveness, scholarly potential, and collegiality can strengthen the application.
9. Alignment with Departmental Goals: Candidates who can articulate how their teaching and research interests align with the goals and priorities of UNT Dallas’s political science department are often preferred.
These preferred qualifications may vary depending on the specific needs and priorities of the hiring institution. Candidates should carefully review the job posting and tailor their application materials to highlight relevant qualifications and experiences

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Public Policy, or a closely related field is often the minimum requirement.
2. Ph.D. is preferred or required for tenure-track or research-intensive positions.
3. Some institutions may accept ABD (All But Dissertation) status for Ph.D. candidates in lecturer roles
Optional Credentials
1. Professional development certificates in pedagogy or online instruction.
2. FERPA training or other institutional compliance certifications.

Job Duties

• Prepare and deliver lectures, seminars, and tutorials on political science topics such as American and Texas government, American Politics, public policy, and political theory. - (Essential)
• Develop course syllabi, assignments, and exams. - (Essential)
• Grade student work and provide constructive feedback. - (Essential)
• Advise and mentor students on academic and career matters. - (Essential)
• Incorporate technology and innovative methods to enhance learning. - (Essential)
• Participate in departmental meetings and curriculum development. - (Essential)
• Contribute to university committees and initiatives. - (Essential)
• Engage in outreach and collaboration with external partners, such as internship programs or policy organizations. - (Essential)
• Continuously update teaching methods and subject knowledge. - (Essential)
• Attend workshops and training sessions related to pedagogy and research. - (Essential)

Physical Requirements

• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Lifting and Moving objects up to 20 pounds.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

Environmental Hazards

• No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule

A Lecturer in Political Science typically follows a dynamic and multifaceted weekly schedule that balances teaching, research, service, and administrative responsibilities.

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. N/A

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click here

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.