Copyediting Instructor

UC San Diego Extension is seeking instructors for our copyediting courses. As part of our Specialized Certificate in Copyediting, we offer students a solid grounding in the tools and techniques of copyediting to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be a freelance copyeditor. Instructors in the Copyediting program should have a comprehensive understanding of grammar, the editorial process, the three levels of copyediting, electronic editing on a Microsoft Word file, and the usage of common reference books.

Individuals looking to teach in this program should be aware that the course curriculum includes instruction on how to:

• Perform a light, medium, or heavy edit on nonfiction copy, either by using standard editing marks on hard copy or by working electronically on a Microsoft Word file.
• Correct objective errors in spelling, punctuation, and grammar; and revise subjective elements as required.
• Use resources such as dictionaries, style guides, custom style sheets, usage guides, peer forums, and Web references to resolve problems.
• Effectively communicate editorial issues to authors, production editors, publishers, and other colleagues and clients.

Courses are taught online using the Canvas learning management system. There are no onsite meetings. Each course runs for approximately ten weeks. The courses are asynchronous but not self-paced. Students are required to keep up with weekly assignments. UC San Diego Extension operates on an academic four-quarter schedule. For more information about our copyediting courses, please visit our website.

A reasonable estimate of compensation for teaching one section of this course is $920-$3,700. 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.

Specific Duties

• Use subject-matter expertise to impart knowledge to students
• Stay current regarding the professional body of knowledge in field of practice
• Communicate expectations to students clearly
• Prepare and deliver course materials online through Canvas
• Evaluate student learning and assign grades
• Update materials periodically, and regularly monitor course evaluations in order to make adjustments and improvements
• Respond to student needs and questions in a timely manner
• Apply technology and leverage resources appropriately to enhance the curriculum
• Handle mechanics of position according to deadlines (LOAs, texts, grade submission, etc.)
• Communicate with Program Manager and Instructor Services Team on a timely basis

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience required
• Current knowledge of and demonstrated proficiency in subject area
• Recognized leadership or authority on subject matter
• Highly effective oral and written communication skills, including the ability to convey conceptual and complex ideas and information
• Highly effective interpersonal skills
• At least five years professional experience as an editor, freelance editing experience preferred
• Experience in college-level instruction, teaching in an online environment preferred

Special Conditions of Employment

As an academic department within UC San Diego, all Extension 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 Extension 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 canceled 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

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.

Please note: We receive and review applications for instructors on an ongoing basis. If we do not currently have teaching opportunities available, we may keep your application on file and contact you if an opportunity that matches your specific skills becomes available. UC San Diego Extension operates on a quarterly schedule and course planning typically takes place six weeks to six months in advance of the start of any quarter.

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