Job Description for the Department of Physical Therapy Education Chair/Program Director position. Review job description, requirements, and qualifications. Apply or register interest for the position.

Department of Physical Therapy Education Chair/Program Director

Elon University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Department of Physical Therapy Education (DPTE) Chair/Program Director.  Elon University seeks an experienced, visionary, and innovative leader to chair the Department of Physical Therapy Education (DPTE). This leader is responsible for all academic and administrative aspects of the department, including accreditation, will guide program development, and will represent the department within the university and to the outside.  The ideal candidate is a strong collaborator, creative thinker, and embraces the core missions of the program, school, and institution.  

The Department Chair/Program Director reports directly to the Dean of the School of Health Sciences and supervises the physical therapy faculty and staff. For this tenure-track position, Elon offers a salary commensurate with qualifications, an excellent benefits package, and a generous retirement plan.

The Chair/Program Director Responsibilities:

Administrative:

• Manages the organization, administration, and continuous review analysis of the program. 
• Supervises faculty and staff in all activities related directly to the program.
• Assigns and monitors faculty workload.
• Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of the role.
• Is responsible for faculty recruitment and retention within the department.
• Conducts annual performance appraisals of all staff and faculty.
• Is responsible for departmental budgets to meet departmental goals and objectives.
• Assists in student recruitment, admissions and retention.
• Serves on the School of Health Sciences leadership team, creating a shared vision and commitment to strategic planning and institutional priorities.
• Serves on Elon University committees based on policies described in the Faculty Handbook.
• Serves as spokesperson for the department and participates in efforts at a state and national level that support the growth of the physical therapy profession.
• Is responsible for all activities related to CAPTE accreditation.

Educational:

• Carries a reduced teaching load of approximately seven credit hours (50%) annually.
• Plans and participates in student orientation.
• Provides leadership and support for faculty development.
• Coordinates the maintenance and review of program curricula
• Creates expectations and opportunities to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the DPTE and the School of Health Sciences.
• Participates in the maintenance and review of all materials on the Elon University Department of Physical Therapy Education website, brochures, and student and faculty handbooks.

Qualifications:

• Must have an earned academic doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, DSc).
• Holds an active license to practice Physical Therapy in the state of North Carolina or ability to gain licensure within 6 months of hire.
• Minimum of six years of full-time higher education experience, with a minimum of three years of full-time experience as a core faculty member in a CAPTE-accredited program.
• Required previous successful experience includes:
  • a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of practice
  • academic program administration
  • classroom/clinical teaching
  • ability to establish curricula and implement pedagogy that will emphasize engaged learning
  • exceptional communication skills
  • experience with budget development and management
  • knowledge of the CAPTE accreditation process
  • support for faculty development
  • a demonstrated commitment to students

Miscellaneous:

• Maintains a North Carolina physical therapy licensure.
• Maintains a record of ongoing scholarly activity.
• Participates in community service activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

About Elon University:

Elon University is a selective, mid-sized private university renowned nationally as a model for engaged and experiential learning. Located in central North Carolina, the University is recognized as one of the nation's most beautiful collegiate environments. Students work closely with faculty who are teacher-scholar-mentors. The curriculum is grounded in the traditional liberal arts and sciences and complemented by nationally accredited professional and graduate programs.

With a focus on teaching and student success, Elon was recently honored to be ranked among the top universities in the nation by US News & World Report, receiving a #1 ranking for undergraduate teaching and a #13 ranking for "most innovative" University.

The University is comprised of six schools that serve a selective student body of over 6,000. Elon is one of only seven private universities in the country with accredited schools of business, communications, education, law, and health sciences, plus a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest and most prestigious academic honor society.

About the School of Health Sciences:

The School of Health Sciences was established in 2011 and includes graduate programs in Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant Studies in addition to the four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

The School of Health Sciences is located in the Francis Center, a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility. Faculty, staff, and students in all programs collaborate on innovative research initiatives in interdisciplinary laboratories, including the biomechanics lab. Our Interprofessional Simulation Center is a hub of experiential learning, allowing students to hone their skills in providing individualized care at the bedside, in the clinic, in the home, and in the community.

About the Department of Physical Therapy Education:

The Department of Physical Therapy Education at Elon University enrolled the first MPT students in 1998, followed by the first DPT cohort in 2003. The DPT program is a systems-based 3-year curriculum that starts in January and includes 40 weeks of full-time clinical education. Accreditation was reaffirmed by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) in 2016. In addition, the department has a 1-year Sports Residency Program, global learning opportunities, and a pro-bono physical therapy clinic.

The department includes 14 full-time, highly qualified, and dynamic core faculty members, including the chair/program director position, supported by two full-time staff members. Most of the faculty have advanced specialty certifications or are recognized fellows, and all are active professionals dedicated to the teacher-scholar-mentor model. The DPTE and the School of Health Sciences enjoy strong partnerships with many clinical facilities for clinical learning opportunities.

The Department of Physical Therapy Education is housed within the School of Health Sciences, providing physical therapy students with invaluable opportunities for access to state-of-the-art facilities for engaged learning, simulation, interprofessional education and global learning opportunities.

About Elon, North Carolina:

Elon, North Carolina, exudes a unique charm that captivates both residents and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of the state, this delightful town of about 11,000 residents is a perfect blend of small-town warmth and progressive energy. With its tree-lined streets, historic downtown area, and welcoming community, Elon is renowned for its excellent schools, fostering a culture of learning and growth. Its vibrant arts scene, local boutiques, and diverse dining options contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences. Nature enthusiasts find solace in the nearby parks, walking trails, and nature reserves, and community events bring residents together throughout the year. Elon is truly a hidden gem of North Carolina.

Application and Nomination Process:

All questions, applications, and nominations relating to the position of the Department of Physical Therapy Chair/Program Director at Elon University should be directed in confidence to the University's executive search consultant:

Dr. Lea Johnson, Assistant Vice President

Scott Healy & Associates

lea@scotthealy.com

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining interest in and qualifications for the position. Candidates who have experience working with a diverse range of people and who can contribute to the climate of inclusivity are encouraged to identify their experiences in their cover letter.
2. Updated CV.
3. Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address, and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by March 29, 2024, will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Elon University is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to a diverse faculty, staff, and student body and welcomes all applicants.