Assistant Dean -School of Professional Studies

Position Summary

The Assistant Dean assists the Dean of the School of Professional Studies with the administration, operation, promotion, and evaluation of programs, personnel, and budgetary matters of the school. They work closely with department chairs and program coordinators to ensure effective and efficient operations. They function as the dean's designee in the dean's absence and represent the dean to the School of Professional Studies and its diverse constituencies. They supervise support staff.

Position Responsibilities

• Certification Officer – Assists the dean with the role of the official WCSU certification officer and ensures all candidates for certification with CSDE in all programs have completed applications.
• Supports department chairs with new and revised courses and programs; external funding opportunities; and assessment as aligned with both the School of Professional Studies and the university’s strategic plans.
• Supports recruitment, retention, degree completion and related communication initiatives for the school.
• Approves course schedules, teaching assignments, and workload reports for all programs and faculty in the School of Professional Studies.
• Oversees issues related to undergraduate and graduate academic programs, which may include student progress, student complaints, grade appeals, dismissals, and academic misconduct.
• Responds in a timely and professional manner to the suggestions, inquiries, and complaints of faculty and staff as assigned or approved by the dean.
• Oversees faculty affairs. Manages onboarding and training opportunities, especially for full-time faculty in the School of Professional Studies.
• Compiles and analyzes data related to the operation of the school. Prepares reports, proposals, presentations, information, and materials requested by the Dean of the School of Professional Studies.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities related to those enumerated above which do not alter the basic level and responsibilities of the position.

Qualifications

• Earned terminal degree
• Five (5) years of experience in student-centered higher education, with academic leadership experience at the program level or higher
• Evidence of successful teaching, scholarship, and/or service
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and equity, and to contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully, in a collegial manner, with students, faculty, staff, administration, and the public
• Demonstrated effectiveness with communication, time management, data management, and project management
• Experience with grant seeking, proposal writing, and fundraising preferred
• Experience with community service learning and/or community partnerships preferred
• Multilingual or bilingual skills preferred

Salary & Benefits

The hiring salary range is $102,542. WCSU offers a comprehensive benefits package. Additional information on benefits can be found at www.wcsu.edu/hr/benefits/. All employment, if offered, is contingent upon proof of citizenship or employability under the requirement of the Immigration and Control Act (IRCA) and the successful passing of a background check.

Application Process

To apply, submit a cover letter, which includes the names and contact information for three (3) professional references and a resume. Questions may be directed to hrpositions@wcsu.edu - please reference Professional Studies - Assistant Dean in subject line. Submit your materials to: https://westernconnecticutstateuniversity.applytojob.com/apply/t0aTPVB1td/Assistant-Dean-School-Of-Professional-Studies. Application materials must be submitted no later than Wednesday August 12, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

About the Role

Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) is committed to enhancing our diverse university community by actively encouraging people with disabilities, members of LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities, veterans, and women to apply. We take pride in our pluralistic community and continue to seek excellence through diversity, equity, and inclusion. WCSU is honored to be awarded the federal designation as a Hispanic Servicing Institution (HSI).

Responsibilities

The Assistant Dean assists the Dean of the School of Professional Studies with the administration, operation, promotion, and evaluation of programs, personnel, and budgetary matters of the school. They work closely with department chairs and program coordinators to ensure effective and efficient operations. They function as the dean's designee in the dean's absence and represent the dean to the School of Professional Studies and its diverse constituencies. They supervise support staff.

Requirements

• Earned terminal degree
• Five (5) years of experience in student-centered higher education, with academic leadership experience at the program level or higher
• Evidence of successful teaching, scholarship, and/or service
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and equity, and to contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully, in a collegial manner, with students, faculty, staff, administration, and the public
• Demonstrated effectiveness with communication, time management, data management, and project management
• Experience with grant seeking, proposal writing, and fundraising preferred
• Experience with community service learning and/or community partnerships preferred
• Multilingual or bilingual skills preferred