Online Lecturer in Public Policy Analysis in Public Administration Graduate Certificate (Faculty Wage)

The University of Virginia's School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) seeks applicants to fill a tenure-ineligible part-time Lecturer position for the Public Administration Graduate Certificate Program. The opening exists for the Spring 2027 term. 

Specifically, we seek an instructor with notable experience practicing and teaching public policy analysis. The course is:  

• PSPA 5010 Public Policy Analysis 

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​Preference will be given to candidates who are also prepared to teach our PSPA 5000: Introduction to Public Administration course.

Course descriptions are available at the 

UVA SCPS Public Administration Certificate webpage. 

The Spring 2027 semester offering of PSPA 5010 is currently scheduled to run from late January through early May 2027.

While the primary intent is to hire for PSPA 5010, we will consider applicants for other courses in the SCPS Public Administration Certificate and larger certificate portfolio.  

SCPS employs academic faculty who have applicable content expertise at the appropriate level and who provide evidence of recent and/or current professional experience which applies to students’ achieving the goals and learning outcomes of the program. Applicants for this position should have professional and educational experience consistent with current Public Administration Faculty.

This position is for the Spring 2027 semester; however, future offerings may be in the fall, spring, and/or summer academic semesters. Courses are typically 10 weeks in length and are offered in an online, primarily asynchronous format. Class size averages range from approximately 12-24 students. This is a continuing education program that predominantly serves working adult learners. 

A syllabus for the current course exists. Instructors will be able to adapt the syllabus based on their preference and expertise, provided the current learning outcomes remain the objective. Note: the current practice is for this course to be delivered asynchronously with optional live sessions held approximately every other week throughout the term; instructors are expected to host these live class meetings for students.  

Qualifications: This position is for graduate-level instruction. Relevant expertise is required. A master’s degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Public Affairs or a closely related field is required; a terminal degree is strongly preferred.

At least 5 years of public sector experience is required. Previous online teaching or training experience is also required (this includes familiarity with the use of technology in teaching and experience working with adult learners). Strong written and oral communication skills are highly desirable.    

To apply, please submit an application online at https://jobs.virginia.edu and attach:

• A cover letter that includes a brief description of your teaching philosophy and concrete examples of how you design and facilitate online courses to encourage high levels of student engagement

• CV or resume

• A sample syllabus for a course you’ve taught

• Unofficial transcripts 

Search on R0086842. The completion and submission of all requested documents is required for consideration. Candidates selected for interviews can anticipate interview dates in  early- to mid-October 2026. If you are selected to interview, you will be asked to present a brief (10-15 minute) teaching talk that demonstrates your approach to either live session facilitation or recorded mini-lectures.

Position Location: Remote. Applicants from outside the state of Virginia are encouraged to apply. 

The school will not sponsor visas for this position.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to: 

Associate Professor Sara McClellan; Coordinator, Public Administration Certificate
[email protected] 

The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This position will require an Education Verification.  

This is an at-will faculty wage position which does not carry benefits. Faculty wage appointments are subject to change and carry no expectation of renewal from year to year.     

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.