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Political Science Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Political Science Instructor information

See Tennessee salary details

$64.2K

$81.9K

$97.7K

How much do political science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science instructor in Tennessee is $81,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $90,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a political science instructor do?

As a political science instructor, your job is to teach students about topics like political systems, political decision-making, and political ideology. This position is almost always limited to college and university campuses. Aside from each course you teach in person, you may also need to prepare and instruct an online class. Your school may ask you to perform research and decide when to incorporate recent events into the curriculum. In some cases, you may be asked to provide commentary on recent events. This could take place on television, in a local newspaper, over a podcast, or through any other news outlet. Teaching a night class is also a possibility with this position.

What does a political science instructor do?

A Political Science Instructor teaches students about government systems, political theories, international relations, and public policies. They design and deliver lectures, lead classroom discussions, and create assignments to help students understand complex political concepts. Instructors also assess student progress, provide feedback, and may conduct research or participate in academic conferences. Their goal is to foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of political processes among their students.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political science instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Science Instructor, you need a strong academic background in political science, often requiring at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in the field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), digital research databases, and curriculum development tools is typically expected. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and the ability to engage and inspire students are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure effective teaching, foster student understanding, and contribute to a stimulating academic environment.

How do political science instructors typically balance teaching responsibilities with research and curriculum development?

Political Science Instructors often split their time between classroom teaching, grading, and developing course materials, while also staying updated on current events and political theories to enrich their curriculum. Many instructors are also involved in ongoing research or publishing, which can be both a challenge and a growth opportunity. Collaboration with colleagues for interdisciplinary projects or curriculum planning is common, and instructors may participate in faculty meetings or student advising. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong time management skills and a passion for mentoring students and advancing the field.

What is the difference between Political Science Instructor vs Political Science Professor?

AspectPolitical Science InstructorPolitical Science Professor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree or master's in political science or related field; teaching certification often preferredDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in political science or related field; extensive research experience
Work EnvironmentCommunity colleges, technical schools, or adult education programsUniversities and research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions offering undergraduate coursesHigher education institutions with research and teaching roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding teaching roles at different education levelsAcademic career progression and qualifications

In summary, a Political Science Instructor typically holds a bachelor's or master's degree and teaches at community colleges or technical schools, focusing on undergraduate education. A Political Science Professor usually has a Ph.D. and works at universities, engaging in both teaching and research. The main difference lies in educational requirements, work environment, and career level.

What can I teach with a political science instructor degree?

A political science instructor degree qualifies individuals to teach political science at high school, college, or university levels. It also provides a foundation for careers in public policy, government, or research, often requiring additional certifications or advanced degrees for certain teaching positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science Instructor jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Political Science Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Political Science Instructor jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Political Science Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Political Science Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,870 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty Pool - Political Science

TNBR Careers

Memphis, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Southwest Tennessee Community College is a comprehensive, multicultural, public, open—access college. Southwest has four campuses/centers from which it offers over 100 programs and over 20 technical certificate programs.

We foster student success, transform lives, and increase the educational level of a growing community in Shelby County. Southwest is a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

We invite you to become a part of the Southwest Team!

Title: Adjunct Faculty Pool - Political Science

Employee Classification: Faculty

Institution: Southwest Tennessee Community College

Department: Social and Behavioral Sciences

Campus Location: STCC - Multiple Campus Locations

Job Summary

This is a part-time, Adjunct Faculty position in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The amount of pay per credit hour for this adjunct position is $640.
THIS POSTING IS NOT A GUARANTEE OF AN OPEN POSITION.
Applications for part-time faculty positions are accepted on a continuous basis and reviewed by the department chair when openings become available. Future teaching assignments are on a term-by-term basis, which may include fall, spring and summer.
Postings close yearly on January 31; to maintain your application within the system, you will need to re-apply each year.
At the time of application, applicants should be prepared to upload a cover letter, resume/CV, references list, statement of teaching philosophy, & an unofficial transcript.
The Adjunct Instructor is responsible for the coordination, planning, preparation, presentation, and evaluation of classroom instruction and related activities. The Instructor is responsible for performing assigned teaching duties during the day, evening, or weekend on any Southwest Tennessee Community College campus. The adjunct instructor is responsible for performing assigned duties during the day, evening, or weekend on any Southwest Tennessee Community College campus.
At a minimum, the related activities include instruction, academic advising, serving on various committees, participating in professional activities and organizations.

Job Duties

  • Prepares and delivers instruction on topics in Political Science.
  • Compiles, administers, evaluates and grades students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, tests, and papers fairly and consistently; and keep students informed about their progress through the prompt grading of papers and other work.
  • Develops curricula and instructional material such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
  • Maintains office hours for students seeking academic advice, assists in student recruitment and retention; and assists students with course-related problems outside of the classroom.
  • Maintains accurate student attendance records, grades, and other required records in compliance with federal FERPA regulations.
  • Attends all faculty meetings, college assemblies, professional development and orientation activities, and other meetings as called by the President, Dean or Department Chair.
  • Keeps abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
  • Participates in departmental and college committees; and provides outreach service to the community.
  • May perform other duties as assign by Department Head/Dean.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in the teaching discipline or master’s degree in another discipline with 18 hours of graduate work in the teaching discipline.
  • Minimum two (2) years teaching experience in higher education or one (1) year teaching experience and three (3) years employment in the field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of current teaching and learning strategies to facilitate student-centered learning; experience interacting successfully with an ever-growing student population.
  • Skill in selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
  • Ability to integrate technology into course delivery.
  • Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
  • Willingness and flexibility to teach classes using various instructional delivery methods at any of the four locations.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representation of the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the total specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Candidates who are called for an interview must notify Human Resources in writing at least five (5) days in advance of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

First consideration will be given to current Southwest Tennessee Community College employees who meet the minimum qualifications for the position.

In order to be considered for the position, the following items must be uploaded:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Unofficial Transcripts

A summary of our benefits can be found below: 

https://www.southwest.tn.edu/hr/benefits-overview.php

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The TBR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities. 

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies:  LeVetta Hudson, Vice President of People & Culture, myhr@southwest.tn.edu, 737 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, 901-333-5000. See the full non-discrimination policy.