Sessional Instructors

The Department of Psychology at the University of Prince Edward Island has openings for sessional instructors during the forthcoming Winter 2026 semester. All positions are subject to final budgetary approval.

Please note: the courses offered below will be taught in person, unless otherwise specified as an online course.

PSY Psychology of Music

The course introduces fundamental and exciting developments in the growing field of the psychology of music. Taking a cognitive psychological approach, topics in the course include memory for popular music, the distinctive sounds of musical instruments, music and the brain, rhythmic behaviour in humans and animals, absolute pitch, music and expectancy, the unheard melodies of film music, music and emotion, musical performance, musical creativity, musical intelligence, musical development, cross- cultural perspectives and world music, music appreciation and personality, music and well-being, and the historical context. Students will explore the complexities underlying research findings and will aim to relate this understanding to music in their lives as well as to other areas in psychology.

PSY Qualitative Methods

This course introduces qualitative research methods and analysis in psychology, with a consideration of ontology, epistemology, and methodology. Qualitative methods emphasize how psychological concepts have various meanings across cultures and time and include observations and interviews as well as analytical techniques to create meaning from the research. Key concepts include interviews, focus groups, naturalistic observation, grounded theory, and phenomenology. The course includes communication of research findings using APA format and consideration of research ethics in qualitative research.

PSY Adult Development

The purpose of this course is to better understand adult development by focusing on themes of change and stability from young adulthood through to older adulthood. Students use analytical and descriptive theories of adult development to explore how adults negotiate physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of development. Lectures, in-class assignments, and research projects are designed to encourage students to evaluate critically the contemporary research in adult development and to apply their understanding of adult development to a wide array of contexts and policy environments.

PSY Psychology of Women

This course will focus on women's development throughout the life span. Topics will include: views of the nature of women, biological influences, the socialization process and its consequences at the individual, interpersonal relationship, and societal levels, as well as recent alternative views of the psychology of women.

Qualifications:

Successful applicants should hold a Graduate degree or a Doctoral degree in Psychology. Preference will be given to the qualified candidates with seniority on the UPEI Sessional Roster and full-time and term contract Faculty Members of the Academic unit.

Application Instructions:

Applicants should submit a letter of application, an updated C.V., and the names of three referees to:

Dr. Annabel Cohen

Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology

University of Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3

In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment.

UPEI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute.

UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

Closing date for applications is October 28th, 2025.