Lecturer – Pastoral Theology & Praxis (2 years)
Job Details
- Position: Lecturer – Pastoral Theology & Praxis / Pastoral Care & Counselling
- Job ID: 6566
- Department: Practical and Missional Theology
- Faculty: Theology and Religion
- Company: University of the Free State
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Contract: 2 years
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Assumption of duties: 1 October 2026
- Closing date: 27 August 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
The successful candidate will contribute to teaching, research, postgraduate supervision and academic engagement in the fields of pastoral theology, pastoral care and counselling. The role focuses particularly on engaging these disciplines within diverse cultural and African contexts.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Teaching undergraduate and postgraduate modules in pastoral theology and praxis.
- Teaching pastoral care, counselling and/or therapy within diverse cultural and African contexts.
- Conducting research in pastoral theology and praxis and its interdisciplinary applications.
- Publishing research in peer-reviewed and DHET-accredited journals.
- Presenting research findings at academic and scientific conferences.
- Seeking national and international research funding.
- Supervising Master’s and PhD students.
- Participating in professional and academic communities.
- Contributing to departmental and faculty leadership and administration.
- Participating in learning and teaching, research, community engagement and in-service learning activities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Practical Theology specialising in Pastoral Care and Counselling, demonstrated through the PhD research project; or
- A PhD in a related Theology/Religion field or Psychology with a specialisation in Pastoral Care and Counselling or a related discipline; or
- A Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Practical Theology or Psychology specialising in Pastoral Care and Counselling or a related discipline.
- Proven experience presenting posters or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent academic activities.
- Evidence of manuscripts that could be submitted for publication in accredited journals.
- A good academic record.
Recommended Experience & Qualifications
Preference may be given to candidates with:
- Postgraduate training in Practical Theology or Psychology focusing on Pastoral Care and Counselling.
- An undergraduate Theology degree or BA General degree incorporating Psychology and Theology modules.
- A record of undergraduate theological training.
- HPCSA registration as a general counsellor.
- Counsel for Pastoral and Spiritual Counselling (CPSC) registration at Designation Level 4 or higher.
- Membership or active participation in relevant practical, pastoral or diaconal academic societies.
- At least one year of higher education teaching experience at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
- Digital teaching skills and competence.
- Practical experience in individual counselling and community work in faith-based or community settings.
- A research record that includes relevant publications in nationally accredited journals.
Key Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate:
Results Orientation
- Ability to adapt to changing environments.
- Reliability and accountability.
Strategic Thinking
- Creativity and open-mindedness when solving problems.
- Strong analytical and logical thinking skills.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow rules and procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership
- Ability to take charge and provide direction.
- Ability to collaborate and encourage teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Benefits
Subject to applicable conditions, the position offers benefits including:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted through other platforms will not be considered.
Applicants should submit all required documentation, including:
- Detailed CV
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications
- SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable
- Copy of South African ID or passport for foreign nationals
- Proof of current or most recent employment for external applicants
- All documents specified under the inherent requirements
The system permits a maximum of eight attachments, so applicants are advised to merge documents where necessary.
Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Apply through the official UFS vacancy portal
Enquiries
For position-related enquiries, contact 051 401 9813 or PhokR@ufs.ac.za. For assistance, contact 051 401 2558 / 7659.
Closing Date: 27 August 2026