The University is seeking a director of academic programs for the World Campus, Penn State's virtual campus.
The World Campus extends Penn State signature programs to adult learners worldwide, using the World Wide Web and other technologies to create asynchronous learning communities. The World Campus reports to the associate vice president for distance education and executive director of the World Campus and is part of the university-wide outreach and cooperative extension function. The World Campus is located at http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu
The director of academic programs will oversee the development and ongoing enhancement of World Campus programs; direct postbaccalaureate and continuing professional education programs; and supervise an associate director responsible for a growing undergraduate portfolio based in Penn State's pioneering independent learning program.
The director also will develop and supervise annual budgets for the various programs offered by the World Campus; manage the activities of the director for undergraduate programs and the director of instructional design and development; and coordinate with centralized outreach offices of market research, client development, marketing communications and Distance Education support units.
Successful candidates will hold a doctorate and have experience in a senior faculty position, with direct experience in teaching at a distance or developing/supervising curricula delivered at a distance. Prior academic and budgeting administrative experience is required. Professional experience in working with complex teams and a commitment to the ideals of distance education and outreach are highly desired. The World Campus is a University-wide delivery unit. The director will work with academic departments from throughout the University's academic community. Diplomacy and an understanding of the academic environment are very important.
Review of candidates will begin on June 1 and continue until a successful candidate is found. Please send a complete resume, names and contact information for three professional references, and a cover letter explaining your qualifications for the position to A.J. Turgeon, Chair, Academic Programs Director Search Committee, The World Campus, 211 Mitchell Bldg., University Park, Pa. 16802 or fax (814) 865-3290. Application materials and inquiries will be accepted electronically at aturgeon@psu.edu.