What are the responsibilities and job description for the IT Program Director position at Merrimack College?
Position Overview
Merrimack College's Department of Computer and Data Sciences seeks a dynamic and experienced full-time non-tenure-track faculty member and program director for the Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) in Information Technology programs., set to launch in Fall 2024. This is a nine-month appointment with an additional administrative contract for two summer months.
The goal is to develop innovative programs that will provide students with comprehensive education and training in information technology, with a particular emphasis on cybersecurity. As Program Director, you will play a pivotal role in developing and leading the curricula of these new programs, ensuring their alignment with industry standards, emerging trends, and the growing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals for a Fall 2024 launch. Reporting to the Department Chair, you will have the exciting opportunity to shape the future of information technology education at Merrimack College and contribute to the field of cybersecurity.
Merrimack College is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Therefore, we seek candidates with a demonstrated ability to work with students across various social and personal identities and perspectives. We particularly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups.
Primary Responsibilities:
Develop, oversee, and continually refine the BS and MS in Information Technology programs curricula, ensuring they align with industry standards and emerging trends.
- Provide visionary leadership in program development, assessment, and strategic planning.
- Recruit, hire, and mentor faculty members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
- Coordinate and supervise faculty, ensuring effective delivery of courses and adherence to program objectives.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with industry professionals, promoting partnerships and internship opportunities for students.
- Mentor and advise students, providing guidance on career paths, internships, and opportunities.
- Stay current with emerging trends and advancements in information technology to ensure program content is up-to-date and aligned with industry needs.
Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders to promote interdisciplinary initiatives and experiential learning opportunities.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Information Technology, Information Science, or a related field.
- Up-to-date IT certifications such as Network , CompTIA, or Security .
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and demonstrated experience working with diverse populations.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
- Proven ability to think strategically and implement innovative program development and improvement approaches.
Application Materials Should Include:
Cover letter highlighting qualifications and addressing how your experiences align with the mission and values of Merrimack College.
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of certifications and professional accomplishments.
- Statement of teaching philosophy, including evidence of effective teaching practices and commitment to inclusive education.
- Contact information for three professional references, including names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is August 28, 2023.
This position is subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check.
Work Location:
This is an on-campus position as employees are essential in order to provide a full residential college experience for our students and the community. The COVID-19 vaccine and booster for which an individual may be eligible are highly recommended for students, faculty and staff. Merrimack College does not require proof of COVID vaccination for enrollment, employment or to be a guest on our campus.
Statement on Our Mission
Merrimack College is a Catholic Augustinian institution of higher education committed to building a culturally and racially diverse community. Our mission is to enlighten minds, engage hearts and empower lives and is inspired by our Catholic faith and the Augustinian tradition of seeking truth through inquiry and dialogue.
Merrimack College seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to Merrimack’s Augustinian mission and values and advance our work in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups. All candidates should describe in their application previous experience related to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as how they will engage in fostering a culture that supports our Augustinian mission, our Catholic faith and our values of diversity, equity and inclusion.
About Merrimack College
The only Catholic, Augustinian institution of higher education in New England, Merrimack College is a private, independent, coeducational institution with more than 4,000 undergraduate and some 1,400 graduate students from 32 states and 37 countries. The College features more than 100 career-focused undergraduate, professional and graduate programs, all taught by exceptional faculty who are passionate about their subject and student success. The College comprises five schools: liberal arts, science and engineering, nursing and health sciences, the Winston school of education and social policy, and the Girard school of business. The College’s suburban 240-acre campus is approximately 25 miles north of Boston in the towns of North Andover and Andover, Massachusetts. Merrimack is a Master’s Colleges and Universities/Larger Programs (M1) institution in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Merrimack is one of the fastest growing educational institutions in the country and has steadily climbed up in the U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of Best Colleges, coming in 34th out of 175 schools ranked in the Regional Universities North category in 2022. Merrimack also ranked 3rd in the Most Innovative Schools category. Merrimack is a NCAA Division I athletic institution.
Merrimack College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
