Degree Program Coordinator

About the role

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs, the Academic Program Coordinator provides comprehensive administrative, academic, and operational support for the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) Program, the Master in Religion and Public Life (MRPL), and the Certificate in Religion and Public Life (CRPL) internship program. The Coordinator works productively with the Faculty Chair of the MTS program and the Director of Religion and Public Life, serving as the primary administrative contact for prospective students, current students, faculty, alumni, and external partners. The role ensures the effective day-to-day operation of these academic programs while advancing their strategic goals.

Responsibilities

• Master in Religion and Public Life (MRPL) Program Administration:
  • Coordinate the day-to-day administration of the one-year MRPL program.
  • Develop and maintain the annual academic calendar, including admissions, orientation, registration, advising, capstone activities, graduation, and special events.
  • Prepare reports and program materials for faculty leadership and HDS administration.
  • Ensure compliance with university academic policies and procedures.
  • Serve as the primary administrative contact for prospective and enrolled MRPL students.
• Program Communications and Events:
  • Coordinate MRPL orientations, networking events, and commencement-related programming.
  • Maintain program websites, newsletters, and communications.
  • Coordinate marketing and recruitment materials in collaboration with communications staff.
• Certificate in Religion and Public Life (CRPL) Internship and Experiential Learning:
  • Coordinate all aspects of the Religion and Public Life internship program, managing student experience, compensation, and assessment.
  • Advise students throughout the CRPL experience, from recruitment through course selection, internship, and capstone project.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with internship partners across nonprofit, governmental, educational, philanthropic, and religious organizations.
  • Coordinate internship recruitment, application review, placement, orientation, supervision, and evaluation.
  • Serve as the primary liaison among students, faculty advisors, and internship supervisors.
  • Maintain internship records, assessment data, and annual reports.
  • Support the continuous improvement of experiential learning opportunities.
• Master of Theological Studies (MTS) Program Administration:
  • Support the Chair and members of the MTS Committee by scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, taking and distributing meeting minutes, and maintaining official committee records.
  • Advise students in course planning.
  • Work closely with the MTS Curriculum Committee to develop programming that enhances advising and student engagement.
  • Coordinate assessment activities for the MTS Program in partnership with the HDS Registrar, including distributing, collecting, and compiling approved assessment instruments and questionnaires.
  • Assist with reports related to accreditation, assessment, institutional effectiveness, and strategic planning.
• Administrative Operations:
  • Assist with budget tracking and financial reconciliation.
  • Coordinate logistics for committee meetings, academic events, and faculty activities.
  • Supervise student workers and temporary staff, as assigned.
  • Support additional academic and administrative initiatives as needed.

Working Conditions

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, exempt position following Harvard University's hybrid work guidelines. The Coordinator is expected to be on campus at least four days per week during the semesters. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support admissions, orientations, special events, conferences, and commencement activities.

Qualifications

• Basic Qualifications: Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in higher education, academic administration, program management, student services, or a related field. Education beyond high school may count toward the experience requirement.
• Additional Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Master's degree and experience in Religious Studies preferred.
  • Experience administering internships, experiential learning, or professional education programs.
  • Experience supporting graduate or professional academic programs.
  • Experience coordinating faculty committees and academic governance.
  • Excellent organizational, project management, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities independently and exercise sound judgment.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, student information systems, and database management.
  • Experience planning events and coordinating complex projects.
  • Familiarity with religious studies, theology, public life, or higher education is desirable.