Part-time instructors at the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College have voted to unionize, seeking better pay and recognition for their contribution to the two state colleges.The votes mirror a national trend as more part-time faculty — which make up about half of college instructors nationwide — demand more control over their working conditions. Without part-time faculty, the state’s three public colleges could not serve its growing student populations or keep costs under control, say state higher education officials.

With only about 10 percent of its members voting, part-time faculty at URI voted 59 to 4 last week to join the American Association of University Professors, the union which also represents full-time professors and graduate students who teach at the university. URI has 600 part-time instructors, and 700 full-time faculty members. Full-time professors teach about 80 percent of undergraduate courses.

Last spring, RIC’s 305 part-time faculty members voted to unionize by a vote of 156 to 3, joining the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals. College officials say RIC has about 350 full-time, tenure-track faculty who teach 61 percent of undergraduate classes.

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