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Adjunct faculty cover letter example
Related cover letter examples
Cover letter template for an adjunct faculty member
Format your adjunct faculty cover letter
How to write a cover letter for an adjunct faculty member
Write a matching resume
Key takeaways
Resources to help prepare for your interview

Are you passionate about sharing knowledge and inspiring students to excel in their academic pursuits? As an adjunct faculty member, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the classroom and beyond, helping students reach their full potential.

Creating a cover letter for your dream adjunct faculty position doesn’t have to be daunting. With our comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step and provide resources to help you create a standout application.

Our guide offers:

Tailored adjunct faculty cover letter examples so you can see what a successful application includes.
Customizable cover letter templates designed to showcase your passion for teaching and commitment to student success.
Expert guidance on building each section of your cover letter, from introduction to conclusion.
Proven tips and techniques to help your cover letter stand out and capture the attention of hiring committees.

Need a cover letter in a hurry? With our Cover Letter Builder, you can streamline the writing process and create a polished application that highlights your qualifications and enthusiasm for the adjunct faculty role. Take the first step toward your career in academia today!

Adjunct faculty cover letter example

Example adjunct faculty cover letter

Adjunct faculty member example cover letter

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What makes this a great sample cover letter for an adjunct faculty member?

Neat formatting
This cover letter follows recommended formatting standards to present a well-organized document that’s easy to follow and shows off the candidate’s best traits.
Well-rounded
This sample adjunct professor cover letter presents a neat balance of teaching skills and research accomplishments, fleshing out the candidate as a well-rounded professor.
Call to action
A polite call to action suggesting that the reader review the candidate’s resume ends this cover letter on a confident note.

Cover letter template for an adjunct faculty member

Christine Wright
Davison, MI 48423
555-555-5555
example@example.com

April 11, 2024

Andrea Coleman, Head of Department
Kettering University
1700 University Ave.
Flint, MI 48504

Dear Ms. Coleman,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the adjunct literature faculty position at Kettering University. With nine years of experience in academia and a deep commitment to fostering student success, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the vibrant academic community at Kettering University.

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to creating dynamic and inclusive learning environments that inspire students to engage with literature meaningfully. As an adjunct literature instructor, I have taught courses exploring diverse literary traditions and encouraging students to critically analyze texts within their cultural and historical contexts.

In addition to my passion for teaching, I bring a strong background in research and scholarship to the position. I have actively contributed to the field of literature through my research projects: over 50 publications and conference presentations. I am particularly drawn to Kettering University’s commitment to undergraduate research and experiential learning and am eager to support students in their scholarly endeavors.

Beyond my academic qualifications, I bring a collaborative and student-centered approach to my work, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills. I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and empowered to succeed.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing to the academic excellence of Kettering University and am eager to discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of your institution. Please find attached my resume for your review.

Sincerely,
Christine Wright

Format your adjunct faculty cover letter

Your cover letter should emphasize your expertise and experience as an adjunct faculty member while highlighting essential qualities such as adaptability, collaboration and a dedication to fostering student success.

To communicate your qualifications, your cover letter should maintain a professional format that allows employers to focus on your credentials. Here are some formatting recommendations to help you write an outstanding adjunct faculty cover letter:

Font style and size: Opt for classic and professional fonts like Times New Roman or Arial to maintain a polished appearance suitable for academia. Use a font size of 11 or 12 points for clarity and readability.
Spacing: Ensure optimal readability by using 1.15 to 1.5 spacing throughout your cover letter.
Margins: Keep your cover letter well-organized with 1-inch margins and left alignment, adhering to standard academic formatting conventions for a professional presentation of your qualifications.

Cover letter templates for adjunct faculty

Create your cover letter

Just as your formatting should be professional, your cover letter template for an adjunct faculty position should reflect your expertise and professionalism. Your cover letter serves as an introduction to potential employers, so selecting a template that conveys competence and confidence is crucial.

Choose an adjunct faculty cover letter template that aligns with academic standards and complements your personal style. We recommend opting for a classic and professional template, avoiding overly decorative elements that may detract from the content of your letter.

Explore our range of cover letter templates tailored for adjunct faculty positions to ensure your application presents your academic experience effectively.

Ensure consistency between your cover letter and resume templates to create a cohesive and professional application package. A unified presentation of your credentials reinforces your commitment to excellence in academia.

How to write a cover letter for an adjunct faculty member

Research suggests that cover letters play a pivotal role in the hiring process, with 83% of hiring managers deeming them essential. Despite this, many candidates avoid writing them. While writing a cover letter may not be the most fun task, it is a critical step toward securing the adjunct faculty position you desire.

Fortunately, learning to write a cover letter doesn’t have to be a chore. By following a few simple steps, you can streamline the process, eliminate uncertainty and compose an adjunct faculty cover letter with confidence.

Step 1

Study the adjunct faculty job description

Tailoring your cover letter to suit each specific position you apply for is key to success. Customizing your cover letter demonstrates genuine interest in the role and allows you to showcase how your skills and experience align with the employer’s needs.

Using a generic cover letter for multiple applications may signal a lack of enthusiasm for the particular role. Conversely, customization illustrates attentiveness, enthusiasm and thoroughness.

Moreover, in today’s competitive job market, many employers utilize applicant tracking systems (ATS) to expedite candidate screening. These systems scan for keywords that match the qualifications outlined in the job description.

To enhance your chances during ATS screening, ensure your adjunct faculty cover letter incorporates terms used in the job description. Tailoring each cover letter to match the unique requirements of each role not only improves the quality of your application but also positions you for success in ATS evaluation.

Step 2

Include your contact information in the header

While seemingly straightforward, the contact information in your cover letter’s header is very important. Ultimately, the goal of your cover letter is to prompt the hiring manager to initiate further contact.

To facilitate this, ensure your contact details are easily accessible and accurate. Place them in the header, and confirm that they align with the information on your resume.

Include:

Your name
City and state
Phone number
Email address
Relevant links to your professional portfolio or LinkedIn profile, if applicable

Pro tip

Maintain professionalism. If your email address is inappropriate or overly casual, consider creating a new one. Opt for a variation of your name or initials.

Step 3

Address the hiring manager by name

Personalize the salutation of your adjunct faculty cover letter by directly addressing the hiring manager. Doing so demonstrates your commitment and initiative.

If you cannot find the name or details of the hiring manager, addressing the letter to the hiring team of the organization is an appropriate alternative.

Pro tip

Job listings often provide contact information for a hiring manager or department. If not, invest some time in researching the organization to identify the individuals responsible for hiring. Most educational institutions’ staff are publicly available information.

Step 4

Introduce yourself in the first paragraph

No matter the level of experience you have or the educational level you intend to teach, it is essential to make a strong first impression. The opening paragraph serves as your introduction, offering a brief overview of your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

For an entry-level adjunct faculty cover letter:

I am excited to express my interest in the adjunct faculty position at [Institution], as advertised. Recently completing my [Degree or Training Program] in [Relevant Field], I am eager to leverage my passion for education and dedication to continuous learning to contribute to the academic community at [Institution]. With a strong commitment to student success and a collaborative approach to teaching, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to make a positive impact in the classroom.

For an experienced adjunct faculty cover letter:

I am writing to express my genuine interest in the adjunct faculty position at [Institution], as advertised. With [Number] years of experience teaching [Subject Area] at [Previous Institution], I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a dedication to fostering student engagement, promoting critical thinking and creating inclusive learning environments. I am excited about the prospect of joining the esteemed faculty at [Institution] and contributing to its academic excellence.

Pro tip

Keep your introduction concise and focused, highlighting your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position in just a few sentences.

Step 5

Explain why you’re the best candidate for the job

The body paragraphs of your adjunct faculty cover letter provide an opportunity to explain your qualifications and demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the role.

Specify relevant teaching experience: Detail your experience in teaching relevant subjects or courses, highlighting any achievements or innovations in your approach to instruction. Share specific examples of how you have supported student learning, facilitated discussions and provided mentorship or guidance.
Highlight transferable skills: In addition to your teaching experience, emphasize transferable skills such as communication, organization and adaptability. Showcase your ability to collaborate with colleagues, engage with diverse student populations and contribute to the academic community through research, curriculum development or service activities. Your skills section should include an appropriate blend of hard and soft skills designed to showcase what a well-rounded professional you are.
Address any unique qualifications or experiences: Use the body paragraphs of your cover letter to address any unique aspects of your background that make you a standout candidate. Whether you have experience teaching online courses, working with underserved populations or incorporating technology into your teaching practice, highlight how these experiences have prepared you for success in the adjunct faculty role.

Example body paragraphs for an adjunct faculty cover letter:

In my previous role as a teaching assistant at [Previous Institution], I gained valuable experience in curriculum development, lesson planning and student assessment. I have a proven track record of fostering student engagement through interactive lectures, hands-on activities and group discussions. I am particularly passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the classroom and strive to create a supportive learning environment where all students feel valued and respected.

As an adjunct faculty member, I am committed to staying current with best practices in teaching and learning. I regularly attend professional development workshops and conferences to enhance my pedagogical skills and incorporate innovative teaching strategies into my courses. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues at [Institution] to promote student success and contribute to the academic community through research, scholarship and service.

Step 6

Write your cover letter closing

Now it’s time to conclude your adjunct faculty cover letter. Finish your letter by reiterating your passion for teaching and express your eagerness to contribute to the academic community. Emphasize how your qualifications align with the needs of the institution and leave the door open for further discussion or an interview.

Example closing paragraph for an adjunct faculty cover letter:

I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to share my expertise and passion for [Subject/Area of Expertise] with the students at [Institution]. With a strong commitment to fostering student success, promoting critical thinking and creating inclusive learning environments, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to the academic community at [Institution]. I welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and skills align with the goals of your department. Thank you for considering my application.

Pro tip

Maintain a professional and gracious tone in your closing statement, inviting further dialogue without appearing pushy or demanding.

Step 7

Sign off

As with any formal letter, your adjunct faculty cover letter should conclude with a professional signoff. “Sincerely” or “Best regards” are appropriate choices that convey respect and professionalism.

Write a matching resume

Create your resume

Your cover letter is just one part of your application package; your ability to write a strong resume is equally important. Ensure your resume effectively highlights your teaching experience, qualifications and achievements. Check out some resume examples to get inspired for the resume-writing process.

For help writing a professionally formatted resume tailored to the adjunct faculty position, consider using our AI Resume Builder. This tool offers customizable templates and expertly crafted phrases specific to academia, helping you create a standout resume that complements your cover letter seamlessly. Plus, you can choose a template that matches your cover letter for a cohesive and polished application package.

Key takeaways

Explore adjunct faculty cover letter examples

Gain insight into effective cover letter writing by reviewing examples tailored specifically for adjunct faculty positions. These examples can inspire and guide you to build a compelling cover letter that highlights your qualifications and enthusiasm for teaching.
Highlight essential skills for adjunct faculty

Demonstrate your expertise as an adjunct faculty member by emphasizing your teaching experience, subject matter expertise and commitment to student success. Highlight your ability to facilitate engaging learning experiences, foster critical thinking skills and create inclusive classroom environments. Additionally, showcase personal attributes such as adaptability, problem-solving skills and a dedication to academic excellence.
Select a suitable adjunct faculty cover letter template

Choose a cover letter template that reflects your professional style and aligns with the expectations of academia. Opt for a clean and professional design that allows your qualifications and achievements to shine. Avoid overly decorative or flashy templates, as they may detract from the content of your cover letter.
Keep your introductory paragraph concise

Capture the reader’s attention with a brief introductory paragraph that succinctly introduces yourself and your interest in the adjunct faculty position. Clearly state your enthusiasm for teaching and your qualifications for the role, while avoiding unnecessary details or lengthy explanations.
Write detailed body paragraphs

Use the body paragraphs of your cover letter to provide specific examples of your teaching experience, instructional methods and contributions to student learning. Highlight any relevant achievements, such as curriculum development, student mentoring or research endeavors. Tailor your examples to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the adjunct faculty position.
Ensure proper formatting

Maintain a professional appearance for your cover letter by adhering to standard formatting guidelines. Use a clear and legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial and choose an appropriate font size for readability. Keep your cover letter well-organized with consistent formatting and spacing throughout the document. Double-check for any grammatical or typographical errors before finalizing your cover letter.

Resources to help prepare for your interview

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Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.