Continuing Education Instructor (SMCE3013 F25 Christianity and Judaism on Disabilities)

The renewal and expansion of the Continuing Education Division of the University of St. Michael’s College (USMC) began in the fall of 2023 and is continuing to build momentum. Building on the strong historical foundations of Continuing Education at St. Michael’s College, the Division is re-establishing the organizational structure supported by a small staff to strengthen existing programs and to develop and deliver new programs aligned with the strategic plan and mission of the university to meet the contemporary career progression needs and general interests of students, alumni, the Catholic education community and the broader community.

We currently offer professional programs in three areas: Social Responsibility & Sustainability, Interfaith Dialogue, and Ontario certified teacher qualifications as well as a number of general interest courses in areas relevant to the academic and intellectual traditions of our institution, including Irish language and culture, book arts and printmaking, poetry and creative expression, faith formation, and children’s literature and social justice.

course in our Interfaith Dialogue Diploma program during the Fall 2025 semester.

This course examines how Jewish and Christian theologies address disability, exploring themes such as ritual exclusion, mental health, and community belonging. Students will analyze historical and legal models that shape theological views on disability, critique contemporary theological challenges, and consider ethical responses. Through critical engagement with texts and traditions, students will develop personal theological reflections on ability, identity, and inclusion.

The course will be scheduled on a weekday evening from 6:30pm –8:30pm online for six consecutive weeks in the Fall term (September to December 2025). Efforts will be made to accommodate the instructor’s own schedule.

• A graduate degree in religious studies, disability studies, theology, interfaith studies, or a related field.
• Experience teaching courses related to religious diversity, interfaith dialogue, or multiculturalism.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage students from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering inclusive environments and promoting social justice.
• Successful experience teaching online.
• Educational background that includes the study of disability theologies and comparative religious traditions
• Experience delivering content related to disability theologies in Christian and Jewish contexts

• Develop and deliver engaging lectures and interactive sessions that explore different models for understanding religious diversity.
• Incorporate Diploma- and Course-Level Learning Objectives set by the Division of Continuing Education
• Incorporate opportunities to strengthen skills in dialogue and communication through assignments, activities and lecture content
• Facilitate discussions and activities that encourage critical reflection on lived examples of interreligious dialogue and collaboration.
• Provide guidance and support to students as they cultivate greater personal openness to, and skills for, interreligious engagement.
• Assess student learning through a final reflection or assignment.

Attention: Manager of Program Development & Delivery

Application Process: To apply, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, demonstrating your experience in teaching and facilitating interreligious dialogue. Additionally, please include a brief statement outlining your approach to teaching this course and your vision for fostering dialogue among students from diverse religious backgrounds.

Application process and timeline:

Please submit a cover letter and CV by April 11, 2025

Contact Information: For inquiries or to submit your application, please contact the Continuing Education Division (ce.stmikes@utoronto.ca).

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