Adjunct Instructor, Advocacy Communications

The Annenberg School of Journalism at the University of Southern California seeks a highly qualified adjunct instructor to teach PR 501 Advocacy Communications.  This course is designed to familiarize students with the key strategies and tools used in communications campaigns designed to influence public policy.

Whether the topic is global warming or criminal justice, a variety of players outside of government are influencing policy debates by using the tools of public relations to promote information, ideas and positions. Conversely, the public policy arena has become a critical laboratory for the development of new means of practicing public relations. This course will examine the communication strategies employed by advocates, think tanks and philanthropies to shape policy deliberations and decisions.  While examining all aspects of a policy campaign, including litigation and direct action, our focus will fall on messaging strategies. Assess the imagery, language and media conduits used to influence public opinion, news media coverage and ultimately decision makers.

Requirements for consideration include a B.A., B.S., M.S., or an M.A. degree in a related field.  Previous teaching experience is desirable.  For some courses, outstanding professional experience may be substituted for academic credentials.

Applicants should send a letter describing their background, interests and areas of expertise, and an up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae through USC’s job site.

The hourly range for this position is $37.87 – $46.96. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC reserves the “Adjunct” appointment for faculty teaching less than full-time at USC, who are employed full-time in a primary profession or career elsewhere. Adjunct faculty typically teach only one course per year, but in exceptional cases, may teach one course per semester, if approved by the dean.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. 

Applicants should send a letter describing their background, interests and areas of expertise, and an up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae through the Careers at USC website.

The USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism is among the nation’s leading institutions devoted to the study of communication, journalism and public relations.  With an enrollment of 2,400 undergraduate and graduate students, USC Annenberg scholars, both students and faculty, are defining these fields for the 21st century and beyond.