Visiting Professor of Theology

Description:

The Department of the Humanities is seeking applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Theology beginning in Fall 2026. This is a term contract position with possibility of renewal. 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 who are generalists and can teach across theological subfields and possess an ability to teach a broad range of courses. Willingness and ability to engage in interdisciplinary teaching that engages in one or more other disciplines in the department (Digital Humanities, History, Literature, Political Science, and Philosophy) and experience and proficiency teaching both in-person and online will be viewed favorably.

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.

Alvernia University is an equal opportunity employer whose employees promote Franciscan ideals and adhere to the mission of the University. All employees share responsibility for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the performance of their roles, while demonstrating: service orientation, respect for all, intellectual curiosity, solution focus and innovation, and mutual accountability.

Alvernia strives to be a community supportive of diverse perspectives and identities and strongly encourages applications from women and minorities.

Applications received before June 22 will receive full consideration. Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

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.

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 20 paid holidays each year, including 5 floating holidays.
• 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.