Lecturer of Arabic

Job Summary

Oberlin College invites applications for the position of the Dorothy Koster Washburn '67 Endowed Lectureship in Arabic Language and Middle East & North Africa Studies-related courses in the College of Arts and Sciences. Appointment to this position is full-time beginning in the Fall semester of 2026, with the possibility of renewal upon review in the second year.

Founded in 1833, Oberlin is a private four-year, highly selective national liberal arts college that is also home to an outstanding Conservatory of Music. Together, the two divisions enroll approximately 2,900 students. The College views a diverse, equitable, and inclusive educational environment as contributing to the excellence of its academic program, and was the first college in the US to admit Black Students and women.

Among liberal arts colleges, Oberlin is a national leader in successfully placing graduates into PhD and other graduate programs, and such programs as the Fulbright.

The incumbent will contribute to the vibrant, multi-disciplinary Middle East & North Africa Studies curriculum. The MENA curriculum enjoys strong student interest in the study of Arabic and offers opportunities to study abroad in Arabic-speaking countries such as Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco for a full semester or a Winter Term. The incumbent will join colleagues in the Departments of History, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, Art History, and Religion.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will teach a total of five courses per academic year, including introductory and intermediate courses in Arabic Language, namely Arabic 101, 102, 201, and 202. The incumbent will also have the opportunity to teach related courses in English in their area of specialty, preferably on Arab media, contemporary popular culture, and translation. As part of a full teaching load, the candidate will regularly contribute to Oberlin's First-Year Seminar Program.

In the second year of appointment, the incumbent will be expected to provide academic advising and devote the equivalent of half-time teaching to the sponsorship of Winter Term projects.

Essential Job Functions

Teaching five courses per year. Advising and sponsoring Winter Term projects beginning in the second year of appointment.

Marginal Job Functions

Required Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree (in hand or expected by first semester of academic year 2026) in the Arabic language with desirable subspecialties in Arabic media, pop culture, or translation, and with expertise in teaching Arabic as a foreign language (TAFL) in the U.S. Qualifications include native or near-native proficiency in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and one Arabic dialect (preferably Levantine), familiarity with the integrated communicative approach that integrates the teaching of both MSA and spoken Arabic, evidence of at least one year of teaching experience at the college or university level in the U.S., and excellent English skills.

Desired Qualifications Quick Link for Posting (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Compensation

Within the range established for this position, salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes an excellent benefits package.

Special Instructions to Applicants

To apply , candidates should visit the online application site found at  A complete application will be comprised of
1) a Cover Letter that includes an articulation of the applicant's teaching philosophy, detailing any connections to supporting an inclusive learning environment;
2) a Curriculum Vitae;
3) unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts;
4) Sample syllabi for introductory and intermediate Arabic language courses; and
5) Letters of Reference from three (3) recommenders*.

* By providing three letters of reference, you agree that we may contact your letter writers.

Review of applications will begin on October 31, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

Questions about the position can be addressed to:
Elizabeth Hamilton, Associate Dean, at ehamilto.