Instructor: Parks, Recreation & Leisure Studies

Applications Accepted From
Public: Open to the Public

Special Instructions to Applicants

To apply for this position complete the online application. Be prepared to attach 3 separate documents: Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, and a list of references. For references, please provide names, titles, addresses, e-mail addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three current professional references.

The position will remain open until filled. For full consideration, please apply by May 1, 2026.

This position is eligible for the following benefits
sick leave and retirement.

Posting Number: 20163120F

Job Description

Ohio University is recognized as a doctoral/research intensive public university, enrolling over 30,000 students throughout Ohio and in online programs. Approximately 17,000 students study on the university's scenic Athens campus. The Department of Recreation, Sport Pedagogy, and Consumer Sciences is one of four academic departments within the Gladys W. and David H. Patton College of Education. The Patton College employs more than 80 faculty members who serve around 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Based in Patton Hall, the college has a distinguished legacy dating back to 1886 as Ohio's first state-supported teacher preparation program, now with a nationally recognized model for leadership and student success.

The Department of Recreation, Sport Pedagogy, and Consumer Sciences offers a comprehensive portfolio of academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Central among these are the Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies ( PRLS ) undergraduate program and the Parks, Recreation, Hospitality, and Tourism ( PRHT ) graduate program, each designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the broad field of parks, recreation, and leisure services.

Position Description :

The PRLS program at Ohio University invites applications for an Instructor to teach Environmental Interpretation. This course introduces students to the principles and practices of interpreting natural and cultural resources in parks, protected areas, museums, nature centers, and other informal learning environments. The course emphasizes effective communication of environmental themes, audience engagement, and the role of interpretation in advancing conservation, stewardship, and public understanding of natural and cultural heritage.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Teach the Environmental Interpretation course in accordance with program learning outcomes and university policies.
• Deliver engaging instruction that integrates interpretive theory and practice.
• Assess student work and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Maintain course materials, communication, and grades through Canvas.
• Communicate regularly with students and the PRLS program coordinator regarding course progress and any issues affecting instruction.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in parks and recreation, environmental education, interpretation, natural resource management, or a closely related field.
• Professional experience in environmental interpretation, environmental education, parks and protected areas, or related fields.
• Prior teaching or training experience in higher education or professional settings.

Department
Recreation & Sport Pedagogy

Total Compensation Estimator (For Full-Time Benefits Eligible Employees)

Discover the full value of joining Ohio University by clicking this link:

Our Total Compensation Estimator shows your offer package in dollars: salary plus university paid benefits including health coverage, retirement contributions, paid time off, tuition benefits, and more.

See details on what we offer in one place and compare different options for retirement and insurance.

Estimates are informational only; exact coverage is determined by eligibility policies and official plan documents.

Job Open Date
04/08/2026

Posting Close Date

The position will remain open until filled. For full consideration, please apply by May 1, 2026.

Job Category: Instructor

Months
4 month

Planning Unit: Patton College of Education

Campus: Athens

Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position.
Dr. Bruce Martin at [email protected] .

Non-Discrimination Statement

Ohio University is proud of its rich history and as part of our ongoing efforts to provide and support a transformative learning experience, we affirm our commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful workforce and community. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration free from discrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military service or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a parent or foster parent, or any other bases under the law. Ohio University is an equal access/equal opportunity employer.

Clery Act Statistics

To view the Clery Act Annual Safety and Fire Report Click Here !