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The University of Southern Maine’s Communication and Media Studies Department is a seeking part-time faculty member to teach its Screenwriting (CMS 225) for the Fall semester, beginning September 1, 2025.

Screenwriting (CMS 225) - Students will learn the process of writing scripts for films. A variety of concept development strategies, writing exercises, script examples, and screenings will be used to encourage students to develop their creative writing skills. Emphasis will be placed throughout the class on the process of screenwriting, from idea formation through writing and revision. Each student will produce a detailed outline/beat sheet for a feature-length film.

We are seeking a student-focused instructor who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. Responsibilities include developing the course, teaching, assessing student performance, and meeting with students as needed. The instructor will be provided with the course learning objectives, program competencies, and suggested topical outline and will be given a previous course syllabus available for reference.

The Communication & Media Studies Department (https://usm.maine.edu/communication-media-studies-department/) integrates scholarly theory with real-world practice, offering students twin pathways: a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a BA in Media Studies. Rooted in liberal arts and social science traditions, the department explores a broad spectrum of topics—gender and intercultural communication, ethics, health communication, multimedia, media policy, and more.

Part-time faculty members are paid on a credit hour basis based on prior teaching experience. Eligible part-time faculty members may elect certain benefits (https://usm.maine.edu/campus-human-resource-services/wp-content/uploads/sites/235/2022/07/Single-Page-Benefits-PATFA.pdf) provided by the University of Maine System. In addition, The Center for Academic Innovation (https://usmdl.org/) 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 (https://usm.maine.edu/) 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. (https://usm.maine.edu/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:

+ M.A. or M.S. in Communication, Mass Communication, or equivalent degree.

+ Experience in teaching at a college or post-secondary institution.

+ Experience in professional screenwriting.

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. These positions 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.

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) (https://usm.maine.edu/public-safety/annual-security-and-fire-safety-report/) . 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.

EEO Statement:

The University of Southern Maine is an EEO/AA employer and is committed to nondiscrimination. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, please contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207-581-1226. TTY 711 (Maine Relay System)