Position Overview

The Department of African American Studies invites applications for a full-time, professional-track Instructor. Teaching is the primary focus of this position, with flexibility to pursue a research agenda, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to the intellectual life of the university.

Minimum Qualifications

• MA degree or higher by the start date in a relevant field in African American Studies, the humanities, social and behavioral sciences, health sciences, or economics.
• Ph.D. preferred.

Primary Responsibilities

Teach courses focused on the founding documents of the United States, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and the Emancipation Proclamation. Our department approaches these texts through robust exploration of evolving definitions of freedom in the United States, centering the lives and writings of African Americans who have worked to realize the nation’s founding principles and core values.

The successful candidate will teach Freedom Papers: Narratives of Race and Nation each semester, with opportunities to offer additional courses in areas such as African American social and historical topics, arts and cultural foundations, and contemporary topics across related interdisciplinary fields (e.g., history, political science, rhetoric, gender studies, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, environmental studies).

How to Apply

Apply online at USC Jobs (Posting #194391). A complete application includes:

• Cover letter describing research and teaching interests
• Curriculum vitae
• Three signed letters of reference (applications are not complete until all three are received)

Priority screening begins: November 15, 2025 (search continues until filled)

Inquiries: Dr. Birgitta Johnson (use subject line: “AFAM PT Founding Documents”).

About the Department & University

Established in 1971, the Department of African American Studies advances social, cultural, and political understandings of the African American experience. Studying Black intellectual traditions equips students to adapt to a changing world and informs our commitment to social equity and civil discourse. Learn more at the Department of African American Studies.

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system includes eight institutions and 20 locations serving more than 50,000 students through in-person, online, and blended learning.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of South Carolina is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The university does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (including related conditions), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under applicable law.