DescriptionThe
University of Montana, Missoula College invites applications for the nontenure-track,
Clinical Assistant Professor position in Legal Studies & Government in the Business & Technology Department. This is a full-time, on-campus, non-tenure-track faculty position with responsibilities in teaching, program leadership, and accreditation oversight.
This is a teaching position with coursework leading to the Certificate in Legal Studies which prepares students for careers as paralegal assistants. The teaching position will also lead coursework in American Government. We seek applicants with a background as a paralegal or lawyer (Master's degree required, JD preferred).
The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality instruction and supporting the Legal Studies Program's ongoing excellence and compliance. This position involves teaching undergraduate courses, providing program oversight, supporting adjunct faculty, and ensuring continued accreditation by the American Bar Association (ABA).
Salary: $60,000-$65,000 commensurate with experienceResponsibilities:- Undergraduate teaching responsibilities in Legal Studies and American Government. Example courses include Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Ethics, Legal Research and Writing, Criminal Procedures, Contracts, Civil Litigation Computers and Law. Principles of Real Estate, and American Government.
- Teach undergraduate courses in Legal Studies (LEG) and Political Science (PSCI).
- Provide leadership and direction for the Legal Studies Program in the role of Discipline Lead.
- Oversee and support adjunct faculty, including mentoring, coordination, and evaluation.
- Maintain and support compliance with ABA Guidelines for the Approval of Paralegal Education Programs.
- Participate in curriculum development, assessment, and program review.
- Advise and mentor students pursuing legal studies and paralegal careers
- Engage in community outreach to build partnerships with legal professionals, organizations, and employers.
- Engage in service activities at the department, college, and university levels
- Facilitate an employer advisory committee to ensure programmatic outcomes align with workforce needs.
- Recruit undergraduate students into the Legal Studies program and work collaboratively with the University of Montana School of Law and the Pre-Law program on UM's mountain four-year campus.
Qualifications- Master's degree in a related field
- Demonstrated experience in legal practice or a closely related field
- Experience working with paralegals in a professional legal setting
- Commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching
- Familiarity with or willingness to learn ABA approval standards
Preferred Qualifications:- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
- Prior teaching experience in Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, Government, and Political Science
- Experience with program administration or accreditation processes
- Strong organizational and leadership skills
- Active membership in the State Bar of Montana
Application Instructions Priority Application Date: Sunday, 07/June/2026
Complete applications received by this date will be guaranteed consideration. To receive full consideration, candidates are required to submit all of the following materials.
- Letter of Interest addressing the qualifications
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
- Teaching Philosophy
- Teaching Evaluations