Assistant Professor of Theology and Religious Studies

The University of San Diego strives to be an engaged, contemporary Catholic university where innovative changemakers confront humanity’s urgent challenges. The Department of Theology and Religious Studies is a diverse community of scholars who advance the teaching and study of religion with particular attention to fostering understanding of Catholic traditions. The department is interested in expanding opportunities for faculty to engage undergraduates in research projects and publications. Information about the department is available at https://www.sandiego.edu/cas/theology/


Detailed Description:
The Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Diego announces a tenure-track position with a specialization in New Testament at the rank of Assistant Professor. The successful applicant will be actively engaged in teaching, research, and publications in the discipline. The position carries a 3‑3 teaching load. Teaching responsibilities will include introductory courses as well as upper‑level courses in the area of specialization, and may also include courses that fulfill the Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement in our core curriculum. The candidate would be expected to teach the lower division course, an Introduction to Biblical Studies, in alignment with core learning outcomes. Candidates with a demonstrated ability to incorporate diverse perspectives into teaching and scholarship are preferred. We especially encourage applicants with secondary specializations in: Womanist and Black Theologies, Latina/o/x Theologies.

Cover letters should clearly state how the applicant's expertise would contribute to our program and community of scholars and demonstrate how they could connect to one of the following three cluster hire themes: 1) Climate Change and Environmental Justice, 2) Borders and Social Justice, or 3) Technology & the Human Experiences. More details about the cluster themes are available here.

Special Conditions of Employment:

The University of San Diego is requiring all employees to follow our Covid-19 vaccine requirement process. https://www.sandiego.edu/onward/

Background check: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.



Job Requirements:
Applicants should hold a commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching, an active scholarly agenda, and commitment to collaborative leadership are required.

The successful candidates will

• Hold an advanced degree, preferably a doctorate or other terminal degree. ABD candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Have demonstrated a commitment to teaching and research, mentoring undergraduates, and fostering a climate of inclusion and diversity.

Posting Salary:
Commensurate with experience; Excellent Benefits

The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including; medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers. Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer. USD: Human Resources: Benefits


Candidates are asked to submit the following materials.

• Letter of application, include reference to the cluster(s) of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Teaching Statement and a sample syllabus
• Research Statement and a sample of scholarly or creative work
• Diversity statement, in which you address A) your values with respect to diversity, equity, and inclusion; B) your experience working with minoritized populations and/or on issues that disproportionately affect diverse populations, and C) your plans related to diversity and inclusion in your teaching and research.
• Contact information for three references who will be sent a link to upload letters.

Contact Dr. Peter Mena, search chair, [email protected].

If you have any technical questions or difficulties please contact the Employment Services Team at 619-260-6806, or email us at [email protected]


Additional Details:
The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, diversity and inclusion, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person.

The University of San Diego, a contemporary and engaged Roman Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity’s urgent challenges.

The University of San Diego is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, covered veteran status, genetic information, or other characteristic protected by federal or state law. USD offers same sex domestic partner benefits. Final candidates will complete a pre-employment background check.

The University of San Diego is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion and is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the campus community.