Associate Dean, School of Computing & Engineering, College of Arts & Sciences

Sacred Heart University•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

Sacred Heart University (SHU) invites nominations and applications for the position of Associate Dean of the School of Computing & Engineering (SCE) within the College of Arts & Sciences (CAS). This is a leadership opportunity for a forward-thinking academic to help shape the future of computing and engineering at a growing, mission-driven institution. The School of Computing & Engineering unites computing and engineering with mathematics and the sciences to create a coherent STEM enterprise, grounded in rigorous quantitative foundations and enriched by the liberal arts. As a centerpiece of SHU’s commitment to human-centered technology, SCE prepares graduates who are technically excellent, ethically grounded, and ready to use innovation in service of the common good. Reporting to the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, the Associate Dean provides academic and operational leadership for SCE and is a key architect of the School’s engagement with industry and external partners. The Associate Dean will ensure that SCE’s programs remain current, relevant, and ahead of the curve in computing, engineering, and emerging technologies.

Requirements

Earned doctorate in computer science, engineering, or a closely related STEM discipline.
Record of teaching, curriculum engagement, and service meriting appointment at the associate professor level or higher.
Demonstrated academic leadership experience (e.g., program director, department chair, or comparable role).
Experience working with or within industry, or in roles requiring meaningful engagement with employers or external partners.
Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills, with demonstrated ability to build consensus and manage change.

Nice To Haves

Experience creating or working with industry advisory boards and employer partnerships.
Familiarity with accreditation processes (e.g., ABET) and evidence of success in program review and continuous improvement.
Experience aligning academic programs with workforce needs, certifications, and industry standards in computing and/or engineering.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in STEM education.
Familiarity with the mission and values of Catholic higher education and interest in SHU’s liberal-arts and human-centered technology focus.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for SCE, including planning, goal-setting, and assessment aligned with CAS and University priorities.
Work with department chairs and program directors to ensure academic quality, clear program structures, and strong student outcomes in computing and engineering.
Lead the design, evaluation, and continuous improvement of curricula so that programs align with industry standards, certifications where appropriate, employer expectations, and evolving workforce needs.
Monitor and interpret trends in computing, engineering, and emerging technologies, and use that insight to guide program updates, new offerings, and skills development so the School stays ahead of the curve.
Develop, sustain, and grow strategic partnerships with industry, employers, and external organizations to support internships, co-ops, capstone projects, applied learning, and career pathways for students.
Establish and manage School and program-level advisory boards to provide structured, ongoing external input on curriculum, competencies, tools, and experiential learning.
Coordinate with mathematics and relevant sciences to maintain strong STEM foundations and efficient pathways that support student progression and success in SCE programs.
Support recruitment, mentoring, and professional development of faculty, encouraging engagement with industry, currency in tools and practices, and high-quality teaching.
Oversee School operations, including budgeting, staffing, facilities, and scheduling, to enable effective program delivery and student support.
Lead or support accreditation and compliance activities (e.g., ABET where applicable), including assessment and documentation for continuous improvement.
Collaborate with campus partners (e.g., Career & Professional Development, Admissions, Marketing, Advancement) to promote SCE programs and employer engagement.
Champion student experience and success, including advising, mentoring, co-curricular activities, and efforts to broaden participation and foster an inclusive climate.
Ensure that SCE programs reflect Sacred Heart’s mission and Catholic intellectual tradition, emphasizing ethical responsibility, social impact, and technology in service of the common good.