Assistant Professor of Practical Theology

American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature; Ashland (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Ashland Theological Seminary (ATS), a graduate division of Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio, seeks a qualified candidate for a nine-month, full-time tenure-track faculty position in Practical Theology beginning August 1, 2026.

The successful candidate will teach and advise students in graduate and undergraduate Practical Theology, participate in scholarly activities, and collaborate with Seminary and University colleagues while contributing to a servant-leadership and Christ-centered mission.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Practical Theology is required or strongly preferred.
• Experience teaching in higher education and/or other educational environments is expected.
• Experience teaching in non-traditional formats, blended and/or online courses is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Teach and advise students in graduate and undergraduate Practical Theology courses in multiple formats (in-person, hybrid, intensive, online).
• Provide professional guidance to students and participate in scholarly and professional development activities.
• Engage in Seminary and University committees and collaborate collegially with faculty and administration; contribute to Brethren heritage and Christ-centered worldview.

Skills

Homiletics

Worship

Spiritual formation

Pastoral theology

Church and culture

Education

PhD or equivalent in Practical Theology

Job description

Ashland Theological Seminary (ATS) is a graduate division of Ashland University, located in Ashland, Ohio. ATS seeks a qualified candidate in Practical Theology. This nine-month, full-time, tenure-track Jack Miller Endowed faculty position in Practical Theology begins on August 1, 2026.

Position Description

Faculty deliver courses in multiple formats, including in-person, hybrid, intensive, and online. The person in this role is expected to represent the Seminary and University while engaging in community activities that promote theological education and Christian practices. The successful candidate demonstrates a knowledge of and commitment to the Brethren Church heritage and theological education delivered from a Christ-centered worldview, expresses a strong commitment to a servant-leadership model, and a demonstrates the ability to succeed in this role.

Faculty represent the Seminary and University while they engage in community activities that promote theological education and Christian practices. Faculty teach and advise students in graduate and undergraduate core and advanced Practical Theology courses, provide professional guidance to students, participate in scholarly and professional development activities, serve on Seminary departmental and Seminary committees, and work collegially with Seminary and University faculty and administration. The successful candidate will have experience/skills in some or all of the following areas: homiletics, worship, spiritual formation, pastoral theology, and church and culture.

Desired Qualifications

• 1. PhD or equivalent in Practical Theology
• 2. A record of successful experience in higher education and/or other educational environments.
• 3. Experience teaching in non-traditional formats, blended and/or online courses.
• 4. A track record as a collaborative, servant-leader with outstanding written, oral and interpersonal skills

ATS, founded by the Brethren tradition and ecumenical in nature, draws from various Christian faith traditions. Agreement with the Seminary’s Statement of Faith, Mission, Strategic Vision, Collegial Faculty Covenant, Code of Institutional Values and Conduct, and Ethos statement is required.

Ethos of Ashland Theological Seminary

Ashland Theological Seminary, founded by the Brethren Church, allows its Anabaptist and Pietist heritage to shape the core values of the Seminary. The Seminary is an evangelical and ecumenical institution, as well as a community of faith with an identity shaped by its service to the scholarly community, the church, and the world. We embrace a diversity that finds its unity in Jesus Christ. We practice justice in our engagement with one another and with the world. As partners in ministry and brothers and sisters in Christ, we strive to foster a redemptive community that lives by the values of God's kingdom.

ATS is an equal opportunity employer. Historically underrepresented groups and women are encouraged to apply. Application review will begin October 1, 2025. However, the position remains open until filled.

Note: A background check is required for this position and any job offer is contingent on the results of this check.