Assistant Professor of Theology

Job Summary:

The Department of the Humanities is seeking applications for a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Theology beginning in Fall 2026. The successful candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Theology (or closely related field) or be ABD with completion of degree prior to August 2026. Area of specialization is open with preference shown to candidates whose background is in Systematic Theology and who possess an ability to teach a broad range of courses. Familiarity with and/or willingness to engage with the Franciscan Intellectual Tradition will be viewed favorably.

Successful candidates will have a strong record of teaching and scholarly productivity commensurate with experience.

Essential Functions:

Mission, Culture & Leadership

• Model Alvernia’s Franciscan values through compassionate service, ethical leadership, and commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful community for all.
• Cultivate a student culture that prioritizes transparency, accessibility, and proactive communication.

Responsibilities

• Contractual teaching load is 4/4. The successful candidate will be expected to teach undergraduate courses currently in our academic catalog ranging from introductory through capstone levels.
• Successful candidates will be engaged in ongoing research, scholarship, and professional activities.
• Successful candidate will be willing to support the Catholic Franciscan mission of Alvernia University and willing to play an active role in faculty governance of the university.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must either hold a Ph.D. or show evidence that the degree will be completed by August 2026.
• Review of applications will begin April 15, 2026
• Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Employee Benefits:

Join a team that values your well-being! We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family:

• Robust Health Coverage: Choose from three offered medical plans, plus dental and vision.
• Financial Security: Enjoy University-paid life/AD&D insurance and long-term disability, with options for short-term disability and supplemental coverage for you and your family (including accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans). Flexible spending accounts are also available.
• Exceptional Retirement: Start saving immediately with our 403(b) Retirement Plan. You'll get 100% immediate vesting, a University gift contribution, and a generous match up to 5% of your deferrals.
• Time Off: Take advantage of 18 paid holidays each year.
• Invest in Your Future: Enjoy tuition remission benefits for yourself and your dependents.
• On-Campus Wellness: Benefit-eligible employees on our main campus receive free access to our Medical & Counseling Center.
• Employee Meal Plan: This plan provides convenient, flexible dining options on campus at a reduced cost.

About Alvernia University:

Alvernia University is a Franciscan Catholic institution located in Reading, PA. It was founded in 1958 by the Bernardine Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis. Including branch campuses and online, the university serves 3,000 students of diverse backgrounds.

Alvernia offers a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts core education for the development of the mind, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, experiential learning through study abroad and internship experiences, and engagement with the community through our Franciscan-based community service model.

Alvernia University earned a coveted 2025 Best National University designation by U.S. News & World Report. Alvernia University is recognized as a College of Distinction for our commitment to engaged experiential education and is ranked among Money Magazine’s 2025 Best Colleges. 

To Apply:

• Candidates should submit the following:
• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy
• A list of three references who may be contacted should the candidate move forward in the search