Open Position: Teaching Specialist-Urban & Regional Planning
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EmailSPDC's Urban & Regional Planning program invites applicants for Teaching Specialist, Fixed-Term
The School of Planning, Design and Construction seeks a full-time, fixed term teaching specialist to teach core Urban & Regional Planning program curricula, with an expected state date of 8/16/2026. The successful candidate will have demonstrated teaching/professional experience and a willingness to teach across the Planning Curriculum.
The proposed appointment is 75% Teaching, 15% Outreach (primarily coordinating the online Master of International Planning Studies (MIPS) program), and 10% Service. The teaching specialist will teach in-person and online courses with expected load of five courses per year with possible opportunities for specialized courses depending on expertise. The core instructional responsibilities include planning practice, healthy and resilient community planning, introductory planning history and theory, and planning sustainability. The position will support large undergraduate courses (100+ seats) that contribute to the college by generating substantial student credit hours. The teaching specialist will also assist with coordination of the MIPS online program and manage online classes in planning theory and economic development.
Minimum Qualifications
A master's degree in urban and regional planning from a U.S. Accredited Planning Program, 1-3 years’ experience in instruction and working with students, and a minimum of seven years of professional planning practice in the U.S. are required; OR a PhD degree in Urban Planning (or allied discipline) is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills and excellent public speaking ability are needed.
Desired Qualifications
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, on-line teaching experience and expertise teaching large classes preferred. Practical professional planning experience is desired.
Required Application Materials
All candidates for the position must apply online at https://careers.msu.edu/jobs/1116849.
Applicants should upload the following documents: a) letter of interest that includes qualifications for the position and statement of teaching philosophy highlighting how your experiences align with the position (2-page maximum); b) current curriculum vitae; c) a description of how you will contribute to our positive culture, fair access to resources, and a sense of belonging; and d) letters from three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Special Instructions
The search committee will begin reviewing applications on April 20, 2026, and continue until a suitable candidate is selected. Questions regarding this position should be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Zenia Kotval, kotvalz@msu.edu, (517) 353-5460.
To review the full job description and application requirements or to apply for this position search for job posting #1116849 at https://careers.msu.edu.
