POSITION IDENTIFICATION
TITLE Director of Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs and Partnerships
CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 1042
GRADE 47
CLASSIFICATION Exempt
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Vice President for Community and Global Partnerships
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Director of Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs and Partnerships works with the Division of Community and Global Partnerships and the Graduate College to lead Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs, and advance strategic initiatives related to employer partnerships and international programs. This position works closely with academic departments, faculty, and external partners to help shape the future of interdisciplinary education and ensure students have the resources and pathways to achieve their academic and professional goals.
This position assists in the development of customized academic programs for MSU International Programs and as part of the University’s Employer Partnerships initiative. This position collaborates with international partner universities and business/industry professionals to improve programs, develop new programs, and to provide student access to high-impact learning opportunities such as internships, work-study, and global and community engagement. This position oversees the Community Graduate Assistant Program and leads the implementation of customized dual degree partnerships in the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) and Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (MSIS) programs.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A Master’s degree is required; a doctoral degree is preferred. An interdisciplinary educational background, with a combination of education, business and project management studies is preferred. An equivalent combination of years of experience and education may be considered for substitution of educational requirements.
Experience: At least five years of higher education experience is required. Professional experience in graduate and international education is required. Previous service as a faculty member is preferred. Experience in strategic management, implementing complex projects from inception to completion, is preferred.
Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required; excellent interpersonal skills are required. Problem solving skills are required. Strong presentation and communication skills are required. Computer literacy is required, including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and use of the internet. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Oversees operations of Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs to ensure the smooth implementation of program activities, maintaining high standards of education and experiences.2. Collaborates with various academic departments to secure overload and per-course instructors for the MPS and MSIS programs and manages payment process for per-course instructors.
3. Oversees implementation of customized MPS and MSIS programs for international partner universities, ensuring programs align with the interests and objectives of both the partner institutions and MSU academic departments.
4. Leads the expansion of the university’s Community Graduate Assistant Program by recruiting new community partners, managing agreements, conducting site visits to ensure program quality, and providing financial oversight.
5. Coordinates with graduate program directors to promote Community Graduate Assistant opportunities to qualified students, facilitate student application and selection, lead the onboarding process for new GAs, and ensure effective communication and support for both GAs and community partner supervisory staff.
6. Coordinates the development of customized academic programs as part of the university’s Employer Partnerships initiative and MSU International Programs.
7. Develops and implements programs that utilize technology for virtual, in-person, and blended course delivery and enhanced student experience.
8. Works in collaboration with the Director of Strategy and Innovation, Community and Global Partnerships, to develop an introductory online academic program for undergraduate international students seeking an online-to-seated pathway to MSU.
9. Develops and implements a comprehensive marketing strategy to introduce this new online academic program to prospective students in Asia, South America, and other international locations.
10. Evaluates existing courses and modules for potential inclusion of credit-bearing entrepreneurial and practical experiences, aligning with industry standards and academic requirements.
11. Facilitates strategic initiatives and/or special projects by serving as a liaison between MSU administrative and academic teams and external stakeholders, including community and industry professionals.
12. Contributes to a learning environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.
13. Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed.
14. Helps ensure the success and growth of Missouri State University by performing all other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION
The Director of Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs and Partnerships supervises the Assistant Director of Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs and may supervise other full- and part-time staff, graduate assistants, and student employees.
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
MAY 2024
