The UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies Pre-College Programs provide academically rigorous and engaging learning experiences designed for elementary, middle, and high school students seeking to explore advanced subjects, prepare for college, and develop career-relevant skills. Our portfolio spans a wide range of disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM); business and entrepreneurship; digital design and programming; humanities and social sciences; and college readiness and test preparation.

Programs serve primarily students in grades 6–12, with specialized offerings for high school learners interested in college-level coursework, research experiences, and career pathways. Courses are delivered in multiple formats—including in-person, live online, and hybrid—and emphasize hands-on, project-based learning, collaboration, and real-world application of knowledge.

Instructional offerings range from exploratory enrichment courses and skill-building workshops to intensive academic experiences such as research programs, college-credit courses, and industry-aligned career pathway programs. Across all programs, instructors are expected to foster an inclusive, engaging learning environment that supports diverse learners while challenging students to think critically, solve complex problems, and prepare for future academic and professional success.

Pre-College Programs Instructors for the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies are responsible for delivering high-quality, engaging instruction to elementary, middle, and high school students across a variety of academic and enrichment subject areas. Instructors design and facilitate dynamic learning experiences that introduce students to advanced concepts, support college and career exploration, and build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Courses may be offered in in-person, live online, or hybrid formats, and vary in length and intensity depending on program type.

A reasonable estimate of compensation varies by course and program type and can range from $150-$8,000.  The amount determined within the compensation range is dependent upon course modality, units of instruction, and number of enrollments.  Instructional agreements are made on a section-by-section basis at the discretion of the University with no guarantee to teach future sections of this course or any other courses.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; are currently being investigated for misconduct; left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct; or have filed an appeal with a previous employer. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.

· UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

· UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties

· APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

 

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Develop and deliver age-appropriate, academically rigorous curriculum aligned with course objectives and program goals
• Facilitate engaging, interactive instruction that incorporates hands-on, project-based learning and real-world applications
• Create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment that encourages student participation and collaboration
• Assess student learning through assignments, projects, and/or presentations, and provide timely, constructive feedback
• Adapt instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners with varying levels of prior knowledge and experience
• Maintain clear and professional communication with program staff, students, and families as appropriate
• Ensure compliance with program policies, safety protocols, and university guidelines
• Participate in instructor onboarding, training, and program evaluation processes as needed

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Masters degree in a relevant field (bachelor’s degree and equivalent professional experience may be considered)
• Demonstrated expertise in the subject area(s) to be taught
• Prior teaching, training, mentoring, or facilitation experience with elementary, middle school, high school, or college-level students

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate diverse student populations
• Ability to design or deliver structured learning experiences aligned with defined learning outcomes
• Availability to teach in assigned program format(s) (in-person, online, or hybrid) and schedule(s), including potential evenings or weekends
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning environment

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

As an academic department within UC San Diego, all Division of Extended Studies Program instructors and courses must be formally approved according to the regulations of the Academic Senate of the University of California. Eligibility to teach a course is contingent upon this formal academic approval. Once approved, teaching assignments are “by agreement”. The instructor’s Letter of Agreement outlines the deliverables for the course, the course schedule, and compensation terms, and is subject to department policies and procedures.  UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies makes no commitment to hire an instructor until it has sent and received a signed instructor Letter of Agreement. Should the course section an instructor plans to teach be cancelled for any reason, the instructor agreement, including rights to compensation for future section meetings, is voided.  Remuneration is for classroom hours only and does not include time spent for course preparation or other events.

 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
 

• Current resume or curriculum vitae (CV)

Please complete all relevant fields in the application, and (optionally) include a resume and cover letter to provide further information relating to your professional and teaching backgrounds. Even if you upload a resume, you MUST answer ALL of the questions in the application, when applicable. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of your application.

 

UC San Diego is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values a diverse workforce.