Program Director, Master of Science in Applied Computing

Benedict College•Columbia, SC

About The Position

The Engineering and Computer Science Department at Benedict College invites applications for full-time Program Director for the Master of Science in Applied Computing (MAC), beginning in Spring 2026. The MAC program prepares students for advanced study and professional careers in computing, data science, and engineering. It combines coursework and research in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, and quantum computing. The Program Director will provide administrative, academic, and operational leadership for this newly established, grant-funded graduate program. The role will include coordination of curriculum, faculty, and research activities across multiple disciplines, and will ensure alignment with institutional priorities, funding agency requirements, and accreditation standards. The Department of Engineering and Computer Science is committed to providing the education, ideas, and solutions needed to create a more sustainable world and fostering a pipeline for African-American students into the engineering fields. The College and surrounding communities offer a vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere, great public education system, friendly people, affordable homes, easy commutes, and many other assets that make it a great place to live and work.

Requirements

Demonstrated leadership and administrative experience in higher education or research programs.
Expertise in applied computing, data science, cybersecurity, or related STEM fields.
Experience with academic program development and accreditation processes.
Familiarity with grant-funded projects and reporting requirements.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collegially and productively within the university community.
MS degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Data Science, or a closely related STEM field.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in higher education or program management.
Demonstrated success in program development, faculty collaboration, or student mentorship, preferably at the graduate level.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, implementation, and assessment of the MAC program.
Manage program operations including admissions, course scheduling, and student support.
Oversee program budgets and ensure compliance with institutional, accreditation, and grant requirements.
Maintain records, reports, and communications related to program performance.
Collaborate with faculty from computer science, mathematics, and engineering to design and update courses.
Recruit and mentor faculty involved in teaching and research.
Ensure timely reporting and compliance for all grant-funded activities related to the MAC program.
Contribute to ongoing efforts to sustain and expand externally funded initiatives.
Encourage faculty-student research projects aligned with the program’s focus.
Develop and implement recruitment and retention strategies to attract diverse, high-performing students including promoting the program’s visibility.
Oversee graduate assistantships, research opportunities, and mentorship activities.
Strengthen collaborations with partner universities, federal agencies, and industry organizations to expand research and career pathways.