The University of Southern Maine’s Department of Exercise, Health, and Sport Sciences invites applications for a part-time faculty pool.
We are seeking student-centered educators dedicated to fostering academic excellence through comprehensive instructional delivery and assessment. The successful candidate will assume full responsibility for course facilitation, including evaluating student performance and providing individualized academic support as needed. To ensure instructional consistency and academic rigor, the instructor will be provided with defined learning objectives, program competencies, and a suggested topical outline, along with a previous course syllabus for structural reference. Course assignment will be dependent on candidate expertise and teaching capacity.
Courses to be taught may include but are not limited to:
Lifetime Physical Fitness and Wellness (SPM 219) - The primary emphasis of this course is to introduce students to a variety of tools that can be used to assess health, physical fitness, and well-being. If students aspire to a career in the health sciences, these tools can be used to assess individuals’ fitness and wellness as well as the fitness and wellness of others. Major topics will include nutrition/weight management, fitness training techniques, flexibility, coronary risk factor management, muscular strength/endurance, stress management, and other wellness-related topics. Class content will include readings, discussions, self-assessment activities and labs, and development of personalized nutrition and physical activity plans.
Health Promotion Programs (SPM 350) - This course examines the planning, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion programs in a variety of settings. Theoretical and practical concepts are discussed. Specific health promotion programs to be addressed include cardiovascular disease prevention (blood pressure and cholesterol control), physical fitness, nutrition and weight control, stress management and relaxation, substance abuse prevention, financial fitness, and occupational safety and health.
Health Research Methods (SPM 477) - Introduction to health research methods with a focus on understanding the basic application of the qualitative and quantitative research process. Review and evaluation of health-based studies with an emphasis to translate and communicate research to improve professional practice.
Additional courses in Exercise Science and Athletic Training may be available for qualified applicants.
The Department of Exercise, Health, and Sport Sciences (EHSS) offers innovative programs that give students the opportunity to gain clinical experience while using the most advanced equipment available. EHSS offers accredited, professional programs that provide a quality learning environment through content-rich curricula, student-faculty interactions, and active learning experiences to emphasize the application of knowledge.
Part-time faculty members are paid on a credit hour basis based on prior teaching experience, as determined by the Part-Time Faculty Association of Maine (PATFA), an affiliate of the national American Federation of Teachers (AFT) union. To view the Credit Hour Rates for AY 2026, please refer to the PATFA Contract . Eligible part-time faculty members may elect certain benefits provided by the University of Maine System. In addition, The Center for Academic Innovation provides learning design consulting and faculty development opportunities to help faculty to create engaging programs, courses and lesson plans grounded in evidence-based best practices for every modality.
The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University .
The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.
We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.
Required Qualifications:
- A completed degree in Exercise Science, Health Science, Athletic Training or closely related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience teaching in higher education is preferred but not required.
- Preferred credentials: NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS); ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP); Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC); or Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
How to Apply:
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:
- Cover letter describing qualifications for the position.
- Curriculum vitae or resume
- Contact information for three professional references.
We will begin reviewing applications immediately.
This position will remain open until filled.
We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.
Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.
The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator .
Clery Act:
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. View the University’s Annual Security Report (PDF) . If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.
