Dean of the College of Professional Advancement
About The Position
Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Professional Advancement (CoPA). CoPA is an innovative unit dedicated to expanding access to higher education for working adults, non-traditional learners, and professionals seeking to advance their careers. Mercer University is a highly ranked national research university with a commitment to intellectual and religious freedom. The College of Professional Advancement is designed to serve adult learners, working professionals, and students with non-traditional educational journeys, balancing liberal arts with career-focused education. As of 2026, CoPA will have 1,200 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, professional, and workforce development certificate programs. The Dean reports to the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost and is responsible for the academic quality, strategic direction, financial health, and operational effectiveness of CoPA. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned administrator with a deep respect for professional and continuing education, an entrepreneurial drive to grow programs, forge partnerships, and position CoPA as a leader in adult learning. They must understand the unique needs of non-traditional students, including flexible delivery, applied curriculum, and meaningful credentialing, and translate this into strategic program development and student success.
Requirements
- A terminal degree from an accredited institution in a field relevant to the College's academic portfolio.
- Academic credentials sufficient for appointment as a tenured full professor within one of the College’s departments.
- Significant progressive leadership experience in higher education.
- Demonstrated responsibility for academic programs, innovation, personnel, and budget.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the overall academic quality, strategic direction, financial health, and operational effectiveness of the College of Professional Advancement.
- Grow programs.
- Forge community and industry partnerships.
- Position the College as a regional and national leader in adult learning.
- Translate understanding of non-traditional student needs into strategic program development and student success.
Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Generous benefits package.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
