Full Time Lecturer in Arabic at InsideHigherEd

Full Time Lecturer in Arabic
Location: Swarthmore, Pennsylvania
Open Date: Nov 13, 2025
DescriptionThe Arabic Section of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at Swarthmore College invites applications for a full-time position as Lecturer of Arabic, with an expected start in August 2026. This is a non-tenure track position. Although the initial appointment is for one year, there is potential for renewal contingent upon a successful review.

We are seeking a dynamic and creative instructor with demonstrated excellence in teaching, innovative use of technology and a proven record in student retention. Responsibilities include teaching Modern Standard Arabic across all proficiency levels, including drill sections for co-taught introductory and intermediate courses; there may be opportunities for teaching elective courses. Additional duties include curriculum development conducted under the supervision of the Arabic Section Head, preparing assignments, grading and providing feedback on homework, designing and proctoring exams, creating course materials, and administering placement tests and assessments. The lecturer will also assist with extracurricular and cultural programming, including the Arabic Language Table and cultural events.

The Arabic program is a vibrant component of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, offering students four years of rigorous Arabic language instruction, courses in Arabic literature, film, and culture, and numerous co-curricular and study abroad opportunities.

Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia and near Wilmington DE, Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has a strong institutional commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity. We welcome applications from all candidates with exceptional qualifications, particularly those with demonstrable experience effectively supporting, teaching, and engaging a highly diverse student body. For more information available to all faculty at Swarthmore, see https://www.swarthmore.edu/provosts-office/welcome-to-provosts-office

Qualifications

Candidates should possess an M.A. in Arabic language and culture. Applicants with a more advanced degree in a field related to Arabic language, literature and culture will also be considered. Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate a proven record of excellence in teaching Arabic as a foreign language, along with a strong familiarity with contemporary second language acquisition methodologies. We especially welcome applications from candidates with experience teaching Levantine Arabic and who can broaden our curriculum by offering courses on media, popular culture, or Arabic in the digital age. The ideal candidate should display proficiency as a co-teacher, possess extensive experience in effectively integrating technology in language instruction, as well as a demonstrated commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in their classroom. Fluency in both English and Arabic is expected. Candidates who are certified Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) testers are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application InstructionsTo ensure full consideration, applicants should submit the following materials:

A cover letter outlining your interest in Swarthmore College and detailing your qualifications for the position.

A curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting your teaching experience and other relevant qualifications.

A teaching philosophy statement describing your approach to undergraduate instruction, strategies for engaging a diverse student body, and commitment to advancing undergraduate education.

Three letters of reference.

A video sample of classroom teaching (50–75 minutes, unedited, from a recent in-person language class). 

Apply via Interfolio:  apply.interfolio.com/177559

All applications received by January 15, 2026, will receive full consideration, and review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

 

Questions may be directed to Dr. Khaled Al-Masri ([email protected]).