You’ve studied the lengths that humans will go — in ancient and modern times — to protect and promote their religious beliefs. Even if you’re not a Believer, you do believe that the study of theology can help people grapple with the big-picture questions that are constant features in the historical and political spectra. If you are religious, you are committed to ensuring that our society nurtures and sustains core values such as honesty, loyalty, respect, compassion, justice, and responsibility. If this sounds like you, then you might want to consider a career as a religious studies teacher or chaplain at an independent school.

Religious Studies and Chaplainship at an Independent School

Whether or not they carry a religious affiliation, independent schools are universally committed to instilling the highest values in their students. To this end, both religious-affiliated and non-denominational schools offer students a variety of opportunities to pursue religious studies, groups, and activities. Many schools strive to create a tolerant, diverse environment and a student body that is aware of varying beliefs and values. Client schools might offer courses in comparative religion or ethics as a way to promote this culture of understanding.

Chaplains at boarding and day schools with strong religious affiliations might lead weekly school services, sponsor Bible study groups, or host workshops in mindfulness or meditation. As a chaplain, you might find yourself falling into the role of spiritual adviser for students across campus.

Finding Religious Studies Teaching Jobs or Chaplaincy Positions Through CS&A

The CS&A Religious Studies Teacher Placement Team works with teachers and clergy searching for jobs in every career stage, from recent college graduates to individuals with decades of experience. We place candidates in a wide spectrum of roles, including religious studies teacher, middle school chaplain, theology teacher, ethics teacher, and upper school Judaic studies teacher, among others.

We also counsel career changers exploring the next direction of their working lives. Current pastors, students, and career changers will benefit from pursuing volunteer opportunities with children and finding other ways to demonstrate a solid commitment to a career in education.

We encourage you to apply for candidacy if your qualifications expressly include:

• A master’s degree in divinity (preferred), or a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, theology, or Jewish studies
• Experience working with or teaching children, particularly in an independent, private, boarding, college preparatory, or like-kind school setting
• A love and enthusiasm for teaching religious thought
• For chaplaincy positions: ordination, or the intention of becoming ordained
• Strong references that convey your teaching abilities, connection with students, and religious knowledge
• Skills, talents, and flexibility for contributing to the independent school community in additional capacities. For example: coaching sports, advising extracurricular activities, supervising a dorm at a boarding school, etc.
• Additional skills and work experience that can enrich an independent school community. For example: serving as a student adviser, mentor, or dorm parent

If you seek a religious studies teaching job or chaplaincy position in an independent school, don’t hesitate – apply now. Begin your job search here.

Rebecca Stern

Placement Associate: History & Social Studies

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Quentin Doggett

Placement Counselor: Religious Studies; Assisting Rebecca Stern & Ben Bolté

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