POSITION IDENTIFICATION
TITLE Associate Dean, Graduate College & Director, Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIP)
CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 1050
GRADE Unclassified
CLASSIFICATION Exempt
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Dean, Graduate College
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Associate Dean supports the Dean in advancing graduate education, research, and student success and directs Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIP), including the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) and Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (MSIS). This position develops flexible graduate pathways, builds workforce and community partnerships, manages community graduate assistantships, and oversees Graduate College assistantship appointments.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A doctoral degree is required.
Experience: At least five years of university graduate-level teaching or administration is required. Professional experience in graduate education is required. Experience with university data systems such as Banner and Argos is preferred. An interdisciplinary background incorporating education, business, or project management, and experience in strategic management and leading complex projects through implementation is preferred. A strong professional network in Springfield and southwest Missouri is preferred. Working knowledge of registered apprenticeships and funding sources and eligibility requirements for apprentice education, training, and supportive services is required.
Skills: Excellent communication, presentation, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills as well as proficiency with Microsoft Office and internet-based tools are required.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
Experience with education of international students.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Advances Graduate College priorities; supports student engagement, retention, and completion; organizes graduate student events; and represents the College on University committees and in the community.2. Directs GIP operations and academic quality; coordinates MPS and MSIS instructors with departments and manage per-course instructor payments.
3. Transforms GIP into a scalable, flexible resource for recruitment and an incubator for new graduate curricula, credentials, and instructional approaches, including online, in-person, blended, and credit-bearing applied learning.
4. Develops academically sound alternative completion pathways that recognize applicable coursework and offers coordinated advising and a graceful exit into an appropriate graduate credential when students’ original programs no longer fit.
5. Builds partnerships with employers, industry, corporate partners, the City of Springfield, and communities throughout southwest Missouri to align graduate education, recruitment, and experiential learning with regional needs.
6. Maintains working relationships with Missouri Job Centers, the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD), and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Applies knowledge of registered apprenticeships and identifies and pursues eligible funding for apprentice education, training, and supportive services with employers and workforce partners.
7. Collaborates with the University’s Employer Partnerships initiative and engagement partners to develop customized MPS and MSIS offerings and dual-degree partnerships; expands internships, work-study, and global and community learning opportunities.
8. Manages and grows the Community Graduate Assistant Program, including partner recruitment, agreements, placements, selection, onboarding, site visits, financial oversight, and support for students and supervisors. Assesses quality, outcomes, partner satisfaction, and sustainability.
9. Oversees Graduate College review of GA eligibility, appointment documentation, approvals, and renewals; coordinates with departments, Human Resources, and payroll to ensure timely appointments and adherence to requirements.
10. Supervises the Associate Director of GIP and assigned staff, graduate assistants, and student employees; maintains professional competence and performs other duties assigned by the Dean.
SUPERVISION
The Associate Dean, Graduate College & Director, Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIP) supervises faculty and staff of the college as prescribed by the Dean, Graduate College.
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
REVISED OCTOBER 2026