Adjunct Instructor - Persuasive Comm for Public Policy na University of Pittsburgh

The School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) is seeking a part-time instructor for its Spring 2026 course, PIA 0601 Idea to Impact: Persuasive Comm for Public Policy in its undergraduate Public Policy Major. This is a full-semester, 3-credit, undergraduate-level course. The Spring 2026 term runs from Monday, 12 January 2026, through Friday, 1 May 2026. The course will meet in person, twice per week for 1 hour and 15 minutes each meeting (Wednesday and Friday, 3:00 – 4:15 pm).

Instructor’s duties include preparing a syllabus, leading class sessions, grading and commenting on students’ work, providing timely and frequent feedback on student assignments, utilizing Canvas, and being available to meet with students. The instructor is expected to be responsive to all student inquiries.

Successful applicants will have at least a Master’s degree in Communication Studies, Law, Public Administration, Public Policy, Public Relations, or similar. Prior experience working in a public policy arena is desirable. Preference will be given to candidates with previous teaching experience at the undergraduate level.

Course Description for PIA 0601 Idea to Impact: Persuasive Comm for Public Policy:

This class is designed to enable students to develop the oral and written skills required to communicate effectively in public policy settings. The course introduces students to evidence-based communication tools, frameworks, and strategies necessary for crafting persuasive policy narratives for diverse audiences targeted by policy professionals. In addition to writing skills, students will develop proficiency in various forms of communication, including oral presentation, visual communication, and digital media.

Students will engage in hands-on activities and receive comprehensive feedback on their written and oral communication to enhance clarity, conciseness, and persuasiveness in conveying public policy messages. Attendance and active participation in discussions are essential components of this course.

Competencies in the major the course should teach: analyze policy issues from a range of ideological, demographic, and socioeconomic perspectives, including those underrepresented in the public policy process; communicate complex ideas and findings in written and oral forms; demonstrate teamwork, ethical decision-making, management, and leadership skills.

Interested applicants should submit a CV, including contact information for three professional references, and a brief letter of interest that includes discussion of teaching experience and interests. Please include if you have post-secondary teaching experience and whether you have prior experience teaching a course in persuasive communication. While all applications must be submitted through Talent Center, informal inquiries about the course should be directed to Dr. Luke Condra, Associate Dean and Associate Professor, at [email protected].