Director of Online Professional Studies 

Position: Western Colorado University invites applications for the full-time administrative leadership position of Director of Online Professional Studies.  At Western, we are more than just a place of learning; we are a community devoted to fostering student success and making a real impact in their lives and the world. We are currently seeking a leader who is passionate about making a difference in students' lives and who thrives in a collaborative and vibrant educational environment. This position offers a flexible work arrangement including the possibility of being remote or hybrid. 

The position reports to the Provost, or her designee, and works closely with all academic areas, Financial Services, the Center for Learning and Innovation, Registration Services and Marketing.   Western’s online adult degree completion (ADC) has experienced significant growth since its launch in 2020; helping those with some college credits earn academic credentials that promote professional and personal growth and career opportunities.  To learn more, visit www.western.edu/adc. 

We pride ourselves on our values-driven approach to education and leadership. Our core values include Integrity, Inclusivity, Courage, Stewardship and Growth. We seek individuals who not only align with these values but are also committed to actively building programs and advancing our mission. 

Responsibilities: Leadership duties include overseeing an ADC associate director and two academic advisors, participating in the academic administrative leadership team, and fostering a culture of value and belonging. The Director is also responsible for the overall vitality of the adult degree completion program and for developing additional online credential programs, ensuring strategic alignment with our educational goals.  Daily responsibilities include communicating and supporting program faculty in curriculum development and delivery and student support. 

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree and have at least three years of experience in higher education settings. Required skills include managing online academic programs, employee supervision, budget management, program innovation, development and assessment, marketing, and office operations. 

Preferred Qualifications: Experience in curriculum and program design, online education methodologies, student advising, and proficiency in admissions CRM software (e.g., Slate), Workday, learning management systems (e.g., Canvas), as well as experience in securing and administrating grants.  

Compensation: Annual base salary range is $85,000-90,000 depending on experience and the position is FLSA exempt.  This position may also receive additional compensation if teaching courses within the program.  Western offers an excellent benefits package including shared premiums for a comprehensive health insurance plan, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and other insurance options. After one year of employment, Western provides free tuition for dependents enrolled full time in undergraduate programs for up to four years. Western has acquired local rental agreements for newly hired employees moving to the Gunnison Valley, which can serve as bridge housing. Upon hire, contact information for housing opportunities will be provided by the Human Resources department. 

What you need to apply: Required attachments for online application include a letter of application which includes a statement describing your vision of the future of professional online programs and commitment to providing education for adult learners, your resume, and contact information for three references.  

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Please direct questions to the search committee chair,  Shelley Jansen, at [email protected] 

Application deadline is January 20, 2025 at 11:59PM (MST).  

Additional Information on Western and Gunnison/Crested Butte

Western Colorado University is a public institution with an enrollment of ~3,700 students. 47% of students are undergraduates, 33% are graduate students, and 80% receive some form of financial aid. Western students represent 17 countries, 50 states, and almost every county in Colorado. With an average class size of 17, Western’s faculty and staff share a strong commitment to personalized, rigorous, and immersive education. Visit http://www.western.edu to learn more about the university.

Western Colorado University takes a firm and unyielding stance in support of diversity, inclusivity, scientific inquiry and creative expression. Western is dedicated to building a culturally diverse campus community and fostering a university culture that is cognizant and inclusive of all backgrounds and identities, including those that have been historically underrepresented in higher education. It is the ongoing policy and practice of Western Colorado University to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants. Please see the Board of Trustees Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Division for Justice and Inclusion, and the DEIJ+ Committee Charge for more information.

Western Colorado University is located in Gunnison, Colorado, about 200 miles southwest of Denver amidst over 2 million acres of public land and a vibrant ranching community. The Gunnison valley provides robust cultural programming and exceptional outdoor recreation. A network of dedicated community organizations enrich the lives of many in the tight-knit community. Living in the valley, one appreciates a vibrant culture of festivals, exhibitions, performances, wellness activities, and more. In the winter, many enjoy in skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and along dozens of miles of cross-country trails. In the summer, bikers, hikers, and runners explore 750-plus miles of singletrack trails, while others delight in fishing, boating, and paddleboarding at Blue Mesa Reservoir or on the Gunnison River and its tributaries. Pre-K-12 students are served by the highly-ranked Gunnison Watershed School District.