Lecturer in Practical Theology

Are you called to form leaders for the Church in a rapidly changing world? We are seeking a Lecturer in Practical Theology who will help shape how theology is lived, practiced, and embodied in real contexts. This is an opportunity to contribute to a learning community that is faithful to Scripture, deeply attentive to context, and engaged with the global Church.....

At Whitley, theology is not abstract. It is lived out in churches, communities, and places where leadership, care, and witness are needed most. We are looking for a lecturer who can bring together rigorous scholarship, practical wisdom, and a passion for forming students for ministry and service.

You will join a collegial and creative faculty, contribute to a dynamic and intercultural learning environment, and play a key role in shaping the Practical Theology curriculum in partnership with the wider University of Divinity and the Partnership for Professional Practice.

If you are an educator, practitioner, and researcher committed to forming people for faithful and contextual ministry, we invite you to consider this role.

ABOUT WHITLEY COLLEGE

Whitley College is an affiliated College of the University of Divinity and an agency of the Baptist Union of Victoria. It offers a safe, pastoral, and dynamic learning environment where students are formed for leadership and service in a rapidly changing world.

Committed to being faithful, contextual, and global, Whitley provides high-quality theological education through a comprehensive range of diplomas, degrees, and advanced research programs accredited by the University of Divinity. Its flexible and innovative formation pathways support students to integrate theology with life, ministry, and vocation.

Working closely with partners and stakeholders, Whitley ensures its programs remain academically rigorous, contextually relevant, and deeply connected to real-world ministry and public engagement, equipping women and men to participate meaningfully in the life and witness of the Church today

ABOUT THE ROLE

Whitley College seeks to appoint a Lecturer in Practical Theology (0.8-1.0 EFT negotiable), to contribute to a high-quality and relevant theological curriculum, and to foster the development of Practical Theology for life and ministry.

The successful applicant will:

• Coordinate the Practical Theology (Field D) curriculum of the College, working collaboratively with staff, faculty, the wider University of Divinity, and the Partnership for Professional Practice;
• Participate in the development and delivery of teaching in foundational and higher-level units, including areas of specialist expertise;
• Maintain an active research profile in Practical Theology, supporting strategic College initiatives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Lecturer in Practical Theology will:

• Teach up to four units per year, including at least one foundational unit;
• Contribute to a strong collegial culture that supports academic leadership, innovation, and quality assurance;
• Participate in College and University meetings, committees, and working groups as appropriate;
• Engage in research and publication in Practical Theology and related disciplines.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Applicants will demonstrate:

• A completed Masters qualification in Practical Theology (or equivalent), with enrolment in a doctoral program (preference given to candidates near completion);
• Teaching experience with demonstrated capacity for dynamic and creative student engagement;
• The ability to engage an inter-cultural student cohort, drawing on diverse resources and perspectives;
• Willingness to affirm the values and strategic purposes of Whitley College.

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES

Preference will be given to applicants with:

• A completed doctorate in Practical Theology or a related field;
• Significant workplace experience that informs teaching and learning in Practical Theology;
• Understanding of, or connection to, the Baptist tradition and context;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
• Active engagement with relevant scholarly associations.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF DIVINITY

Whitley College is part of the University of Divinity, a collegiate university committed to the highest standards of scholarship in theology, philosophy, and ministry, engaging contemporary issues through rigorous academic inquiry.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants are encouraged to:

• Familiarise themselves with this position description and relevant institutional websites;
• Submit a covering letter and CV demonstrating their suitability for the role;
• Provide clear examples of experience and competency relevant to the position.

Enquiries are welcome and may be directed to the Academic Dean, Rev. Dr Andrew Mitchell (academicdean@whitley.edu.au), as part of a process of mutual discovery and discernment.

Applications should be addressed to Rev. Associate Professor Darrell Jackson, Principal of Whitley College via the 'Apply to this Job' button below by Friday, June 5th.