Part-time University Honors Instructor

The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) is seeking a part-time instructor to teach a course (up to 4 credits) during spring 2026 in the University Honors program.

Teaching University Honors:

Every University Honors instructor is responsible for student-centered instruction of a class of approximately 18-22 UMD honor students. The instructor will work closely with the honors director to meet the program goals and learning outcomes of the honors program.

Individuals hired as University Honors instructors are assigned to teach one class section of a current UMD University Honors course during the spring 2026 term; reappointment for future terms is contingent upon program needs and instructor performance.

Current UMD faculty may teach a University Honors course as part of their regular teaching load.

Responsibilities:
Each University Honors instructor must meet the following expectations. Logistics:

• Return offer letter to the Academic Success Center
• Teach the University Honors course
• Email a digital version of the syllabus to the Academic Success Center
• Complete and submit the relevant Liberal Education category assessment report(s)

Course

• Attend all class sessions
• Create an inviting and inclusive classroom environment
• Plan and prepare weekly lesson plans
• Spend time connecting with the students
• Incorporate the relevant program goals and student learning outcomes in instruction of the course
• Become familiar with UMD technology, resources, and policies
• Maintain accurate records of students enrolled in the course
• Provide timely feedback and grades to students

Compensation:

Adjunct instructors with no other University appointment: Each adjunct instructor who teaches a University Honors course will earn $1,645.00 per course credit.

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree, or equivalent experience, from an accredited institution and in a field of study related to at least one current UMD University Honors course
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with University academic policies and resources
• Ability to teach an approved UMD University Honors course

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctorate degree from an accredited institution and in a field of study related to at least one current UMD University Honors course
• Current or prior experience working on the UMD Campus
• Teaching experience for college or university honor programs
• Willingness to support the University's Strategic Plan, with a particular commitment to equity, diversity, and student development
  

Mission:

University Honors at UMD is designed to bring together students from many different majors, interests, and backgrounds and encourage them to learn broadly about human nature and society and to engage actively in their communities and academics. Consistent with the University's overall mission, University Honors offers an enhanced liberal education experience designed to develop leaders with a diverse set of skills honed through active learning in the classroom, participation in research, increased cultural awareness, and public engagement.

Purpose:

University Honors courses are not designed to be more difficult than other classes. Instead they are designed to be highly engaging. In UH we believe that learning occurs through relationships, through active engagement with material and connection to people. As such, UH courses are designed to help students connect with their peers, faculty, and the broader Duluth and global community. UH classes are some of the most captivating and meaningful learning experiences students will have at the University and they fulfill liberal education requirements, so they are not often extra class requirements. Instead they replace other standard liberal education courses students would have to take anyway.

Smoking, chewing tobacco and the use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited on all UMD property, including indoor facilities, campus grounds and University vehicles.

Pay Rate: $1,645.00 per course credit; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

To apply for the positions, go to http://employment.umn.edu and search for job opening 371429.

Review of complete applications will be done on a rolling basis starting 12/10/2025, and continue until positions are filled.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Complete applications must include:

• Letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae/resume

Official transcripts will be required of finalist candidates if not already on file in the UMD HR office.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).