Introduction to Astronomy, Department of Applied Sciences and Professional Studies - Adjunct Faculty

Adjunct Faculty – Introduction to Astronomy

Department of Applied Sciences and Professional Studies | University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)

This position is specifically to teach on-site in Pearl City, Hawaii. Local applicants only; UMGC does not sponsor logistical support for this role.

Introduction to Astronomy (ASTR 100):

An examination of the major areas of astronomy. Topics include the solar system, stars and stellar evolution, and galaxies. Current topics in astronomy are also discussed. The objective is to use scientific and quantitative reasoning to make informed decisions about topics related to space science.

At UMGC, we don’t just teach; we empower. Founded in 1947, UMGC is an open-access, minority-serving institution serving over 90,000 nontraditional learners worldwide, including a proud, large military-affiliated population. Our students are mature, highly dedicated, and balancing careers, families, and service. As an Adjunct Faculty member, you are the essential partner helping them bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world career success.

Why Teach with UMGC?

Focus on Students, Not Course Design: All courses follow a standardized, pre-designed, unified course model. Standardized rubrics, OER materials, library resources, and digital textbooks are fully provided at no cost to you. You get to focus 100% of your energy on mentoring, facilitating, and providing high-quality feedback-no unpaid course-building required. True Asynchronous Flexibility: Teach with flexibility, on your own schedule. As long as you meet weekly grading, responsiveness, and engagement milestones, your daily hours are entirely up to you. Ongoing Growth: We invest in you. All newly hired faculty receive comprehensive online orientation, alongside ongoing, cost-free professional development opportunities.

The Rhythm of Your Week (Key Responsibilities)

Adjunct faculty bring our pre-built curriculum to life through real-world expertise and active mentorship.

Classroom Engagement & Presence

Be Visible: Maintain an active classroom presence at least 5 days per week, introducing yourself with a welcome announcement and driving discussions. Bridge Theory & Practice: Enrich the pre-built curriculum with your own professional expertise and real-world examples. Build Belonging: Foster an inclusive, culturally responsive environment where adult learners feel supported and motivated.

Responsiveness & Feedback

Stay consistently engaged with learners throughout the course by responding to inquiries, returning feedback, and posting final grades within the expected timeframe.

Proactive Support & Collaboration

Monitor Progress: Use available data tools to track student engagement and conduct proactive outreach to at-risk students. Team Up: Partner with success coaches, academic staff, and portfolio directors to refer struggling students to UMGC support resources. Stay Connected: Participate in UMGC's vibrant faculty community, including the Program Hub and ongoing training.

Course Structure & Time Commitment

Format: 100% Online & Asynchronous Term Length: 8-week sessions (3-credit courses) Class Size: Typically, 25–35 students (smaller sections for select courses) Time Commitment: The adjunct faculty role requires a substantial commitment throughout the term focusing not only on academic success but also the social, personal, and professional growth of students

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: ​A Master's degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field from an accredited institution of higher learning Experience: Professional experience in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field. Legal Status: Applicants must have and be able to maintain their own legal status in the country in which they apply to teach. The Mindset: A deeply student-centered approach rooted in empathy, flexibility, professional integrity, and cultural responsiveness.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience teaching adult learners in an online, asynchronous environment. Prior postsecondary teaching experience. Active engagement in your discipline's professional community.

Materials needed for submission

Resume/ Curriculum Vitae Cover letter highly preferred Unofficial Transcripts If selected, candidates with international degrees may be required to submit a translation/degree evaluation from a NACES approved vendor

All submissions should include a cover letter and resume.

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. UMGC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, ancestry, political affiliation or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Workplace Accommodations:

The University of Maryland Global Campus Global Campus (UMGC) is committed to creating and maintaining a welcoming and inclusive working environment for people of all abilities. UMGC is dedicated to the principle that no qualified individual with a disability shall, based on disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of the University, or be subjected to discrimination. For information about UMGC’s Reasonable Workplace Accommodation Policy or to request an accommodation, applicants/candidates can contact Employee Accommodations via email at employee-accommodations@umgc.edu.

Benefits Package Highlights:

Health Coverage: Access to health care, medical with vision, dental, and prescription plans for both individuals and families, effective from the 1st of the month following your hire date. NOTE: Adjuncts are not eligible for the State of Maryland subsidized rates. Adjuncts would be responsible for the total cost if enrolled. Insurance Options: Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance. Supplemental Retirement Plans: include 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and various Roth options. The university does not provide matching funds.

For additional information please see: SS Adjunct Faculty_2020.pdf (umgc.edu)

Hiring Range by Rank and Degree:

Instructor: No Terminal Degree: Step 1 $806 - Step 11 $1,050 per credit hour

Assistant Adjunct Professor: No Terminal Degree Step 1 $877 - Step 11 $1,127 per credit hour

Assistant Adjunct Professor: Terminal Degree Step 1 $1,023 - Step 11 $1,288 per credit hour

Associate Adjunct Professor: No Terminal Degree Step 1 $947 - Step 11 $1,205 per credit hour

Associate Adjunct Professor: Terminal Degree Step 1 $1,202 - Step 11 $1,483 per credit hour

Adjunct Professor: No Terminal Degree Step 1 $1,023 - Step 11 $1,288 per credit hour

Adjunct Professor: Terminal Degree Step 1 $1,347 - Step 11 $1,645 per credit hour