Instructor: Parks, Recreation & Leisure Studies

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.

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.