Quarterly Lecturer: Religious Studies (2026-2027 Pool)

Santa Clara University, a Jesuit, Catholic university, invites applications for a pool of Quarterly Lecturers (non-tenure track) in the Department of Religious Studies for the 2026-2027 academic year. Positions are filled only as needed.

About the Role

The successful candidate will teach introductory-level courses such as Ways of Understanding Religion, The Christian Tradition, and Religions of the Book, as well as possible intermediate courses in Catholic Theology and Hispanic Theology. Teaching load will not exceed two courses per quarter or four courses total over fall, winter, and spring quarters. The university operates on a 10-week quarter system with an 11th week for final examinations. All classes are presented in-person, though online instruction may be required if county or university health conditions deteriorate.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and attend all assigned class meetings in a timely and prepared manner, demonstrating command of the discipline.
• Design and evaluate assignments aligned with course descriptions and learning outcomes, providing timely feedback to students.
• Hold regular weekly office hours on campus.
• Submit accurate and fair student grades to the Office of the Registrar by designated deadlines.
• Administer numerical and narrative course evaluations.
• Teach from an approved syllabus for University Core courses or collaborate with the Chair to design and submit a syllabus for approval.

Service duties are not required for this position, though attendance at department meetings or activities may be invited.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree (Ph.D.) in religious studies or a closely-related field. ABD candidates or those with a Master’s degree and 5-7 years of college or professional teaching experience in religious studies may also be considered.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching religious studies at the college level.
• Excellent communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with inclusive pedagogical practices that promote access and academic success for all students.
• Experience teaching and mentoring a diverse undergraduate student population.
• Previous experience teaching U.S. Hispanic Theology and/or Christian History.
• Familiarity and comfort with Santa Clara University’s Jesuit Catholic mission and identity.

Pay

$9,839 for each 4 or 5 unit course.

Schedule

• Fall 2026: Contract starts September 1, 2026; classes begin September 21, 2026.
• Winter 2027: Contract starts December 16, 2026; classes begin January 4, 2027.
• Spring 2027: Contract starts March 1, 2027; classes begin March 29, 2027.

Employment is subject to the terms of a collective bargaining agreement between the university and SEIU Local 1021. Telecommute options are limited to California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, or Illinois.