What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Director - Interior Design position at Gallatin College MSU?
Responsibilities
The Gallatin College Interior Design Program Director is responsible for the day-to-day operations and the academic quality of the program. This includes leading faculty teams; advancing curriculum and assessment; developing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive program of lectures, labs, and student support; teaching for the program; and maintaining active industry partnerships. Please note that this position can be structured as either a fiscal year Non-Tenure Track Faculty member OR as an academic year Tenure-Track Faculty member.
Leadership & Administration
- Oversee daily program operations; ensure academic quality and compliance with state/federal law, college policy, and accreditation standards.
- Recruit, hire, supervise, and manage 4–10 part‑time faculty; ensure instructional quality is aligned with industry and accreditation expectations.
- Manage course scheduling, budget and purchasing, and studio/lab operations (equipment, software licensing, inventory, and upkeep).
- Coordinate program activities and represent the program within Gallatin College; serve on campus committees to foster a supportive institutional climate.
Teaching, Advising & Student Success
- Teach at least two courses per semester within Interior Design (e.g., studios, visualization, materials, building systems/codes, professional practice, portfolio). (A higher teaching load may be assigned if appointed on a tenure‑track line).
- Provide evening availability to support students and faculty as needed.
- Support academic advising in partnership with the student success team—from orientation through graduation.
- Implement student tracking systems; collect/monitor retention, graduation, and placement data to improve outcomes.
Curriculum, Assessment & Accreditation
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve a comprehensive program of lectures, labs, and student support.
- Lead annual program assessment and reporting; evaluate student learning and stakeholder (student, alumni, employer) satisfaction.
- Monitor national trends and emerging practices; initiate program improvements (including new courses or credentials) as appropriate.
- Pursue relevant industry accreditation (e.g., CIDA or similar), strengthen curriculum alignment, and maintain industry connection.
Industry & Community Engagement
- Foster positive student and industry relations; convening the Interior Design Advisory Board each semester and coordinate industry/student events.
- Build and sustain partnerships for internships, live projects, mentorship, and job placement.
- Network with local and state interior design partners and associations; represent the program with professionalism and collaborative spirit.
Collaboration
- Work closely with the Building Trades, Design & CAD Program Director on shared faculty, scheduling, and curriculum that supports both programs.
- Align and collaborate with MSU’s College of Arts and Architecture.
- Participate as needed on Gallatin College and MSU internal committees.
About Gallatin College
Gallatin College—Southwest Montana’s two‑year college at Montana State University—offers associate degrees and one‑year professional certificates. The college complements MSU’s four‑year programs and expands access to workforce education that supports a vibrant local economy. We champion open access, affordability, and responsiveness to local needs.
The Interior Design Program (AAS) prepares students for employment in the interior design profession through hands‑on, student‑centered learning. Faculty and staff support students closely helping them discover purpose, build practical skills, connect with industry, and persist to graduation.