"Assistant Professor, Religious and Theological Studies"

Job Details

About Salve Regina University:

Salve Regina University, ranked as one of the most transformative colleges in the United States by Money Magazine, is a comprehensive Catholic University located in the scenic coastal community of Newport, Rhode Island. The University's commitment to academic success and personal discovery extends beyond its historic campus into a dynamic world where the application of higher thinking and skill are most valued. Salve Regina offers bachelor's and master's degree programs, graduate certificates, and doctoral programs in humanities, international relations and nursing. Enrollment includes more than 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students from across the U.S. and around the world.

Job Description:

The Department of Religious and Theological Studies at Salve Regina University seeks a full-time, tenure track, Assistant Professor, to start in the Fall of 2026. As a Catholic university in the Mercy tradition, we value teaching excellence in subject areas related to faith, mercy and justice, as well as a welcoming, dialogic approach to the varied spiritual interests of Generation Z. Expertise in biblical studies/early church is highly desirable, together with the ability to employ creative and diverse pedagogies. As our department services the Core Curriculum, enthusiasm for working with non-majors, including first year students, is essential. The position also offers opportunities for collaboration across disciplines in relation to the critical social and environmental concerns of the Sisters of Mercy. The typical full-time teaching load at Salve Regina is 4/3 (or 3/4).

Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

• Doctorate in Religious Studies, Theology, or a closely related field (Ph.D., Th.D., or S.T.D.) in hand by the start of appointment (Fall 2026); candidates near completion will be considered.
• Demonstrated teaching experience at the college or university level.
• Ability to teach courses in the Core Curriculum for non-majors, including introductory-level classes.
• Ability to engage constructively with students of diverse spiritual and religious backgrounds, including those identifying as "spiritual but not religious."
• Commitment to the mission of a Catholic university in the Mercy tradition, with an appreciation for faith, mercy, justice, and service.
• Evidence of an emerging research agenda appropriate to the rank of Assistant Professor.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collegial, student-centered approach to teaching and mentoring.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in Biblical Studies and/or Early Church History/Theology.
• Experience employing diverse and innovative pedagogies, including dialogic, experiential, or technology-enhanced methods.
• Interest or experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in areas aligned with the Mercy Critical Concerns (such as social justice, environmental stewardship, or global awareness).
• Record of scholarship or publication showing potential for continued research productivity.
• Experience teaching first-year students or developing Core Curriculum courses.
• Commitment to inclusive excellence and supporting a diverse academic community.

Additional Information:

Salve Regina University offers generous benefits to eligible employees including (waiting periods apply):

• health, dental and vision coverage available on the first of the month following date of hire
• 403(b) retirement plan through TIAA with employee and employer contributions as well as access to advising services
• long-term disability coverage
• employer-paid life and AD&D insurance
• up to 100% free tuition at Salve for eligible employees and qualified dependents
• robust wellness program and free access to the on-campus Fitness Center

Other available benefits include:

• supplemental life insurance for employees and dependents
• supplemental insurance coverage through Aflac
• Tuition Exchange scholarship program. Application available for qualified dependents of eligible employees working full-time
• discounted pet insurance through ASPCA
• student loan forgiveness assistance program (SAVI)
• employee Assistance Program through Coastline EAP
• flexible spending health and dependent care accounts
• health savings accounts
• 529 collegebound saver program
• paid parental leave and adoption assistance

For more detailed information on Salve's benefits, visit https://salve.edu/human-resources/benefits.

Salve Regina University strives to cultivate belonging values through diversity, equity inclusion in order to foster a welcoming culture for our staff, faculty and students, as well as the wider community. Salve Regina University embraces all people with grace. No matter the path traveled to get here, the University acknowledges that many identities will intersect. Salve Regina belongs to all in its community.

Application Instructions:

Applicants must apply online for any open staff and faculty positions by providing a cover-letter and resume. Pre-employment background checks and reference checks are required of successful candidates. Salve Regina University participates in E-verify.

Please provide three professional references that can speak to your teaching and scholarship. If you are selected as one of our finalists applicants for the position, we will request the referees you listed in your application to submit a letter of recommendation.

To ensure full consideration, please submit your application by December 1, 2025.

URL: www.salve.edu