Program Manager, Physician Assistant Programs

National Louis University•Chicago, IL

10d

About The Position

The Program Manager for the Physician Assistant (PA) Programs plays a central role in supporting the academic, administrative, and operational success of a nationally accredited PA program. This position partners closely with program leadership, faculty, students, and external stakeholders to ensure smooth day-to-day operations, regulatory compliance, and a high-quality educational experience. This is an ideal opportunity for a highly organized, detail-oriented professional who enjoys managing complex processes, supporting academic programs, and serving as a key connector across teams. The National Louis University (NLU) Physician Assistant Program will apply for Accreditation - Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). The NLU Physician Assistant Program anticipates matriculating its first class in October of 2027, pending achievement of Accreditation - Provisional status at the July of 2027 ARC-PA meeting. Accreditation - Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding accreditation-provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
Demonstrated experience in program coordination, academic administration, or complex office management
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
High level of attention to detail and discretion when handling sensitive information
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information systems (or other similar databases)

Nice To Haves

Experience working in higher education, healthcare education, or accredited academic programs
Familiarity with accreditation standards (ARC-PA or similar)
Experience supporting faculty, committees, or academic leadership
Project management experience in a complex or regulated environment

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary administrative lead for PA program operations, supporting the Program Director and leadership team
Manage accreditation-related activities, documentation, reporting, and ongoing compliance requirements
Coordinate academic calendars, student records, onboarding, progression, and graduation processes
Oversee program communications, scheduling, meetings, and committee support
Liaise with internal departments (registrar, HR, finance, admissions, clinical partners) to ensure alignment and efficiency
Support faculty and staff with operational needs, policy implementation, and program initiatives
Maintain accurate records, databases, and reports related to students, curriculum, and accreditation
Participate in program planning, continuous improvement efforts, and special projects as assigned