Educational Program Specialist

Nature of Work: The Educational Program Specialist will play a pivotal role in the conceptualization, development, and operationalization of the curriculum for the new Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program. Reporting directly to the Academic Director and administratively to the Program Manager, this role demands close collaboration with MPAS academic leadership to design and implement a curriculum framework that meets rigorous academic and clinical standards. The Specialist will also actively work alongside the MPAS Curriculum Leads, participate in MPAS committees, contributing to broader program strategies and ensuring the curriculum supports the program's goals and accreditation requirements. This position is essential for creating a foundation of educational excellence as the program prepares to welcome its first cohort.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

Curriculum Development and Assessment:

• Lead the creation, ongoing refinement, and review of curriculum maps, course content, and learning objectives in collaboration with faculty, ensuring alignment with MPAS program goals, competencies, and accreditation standards.
• Design and implement comprehensive assessment strategies to measure student performance and program effectiveness, working closely with faculty to develop formative and summative assessment tools aligned with learning outcomes.

Faculty Support and Educational Enhancement:

• Provide ongoing support and consultation to faculty on curriculum design, instructional methods, and assessment techniques, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation in teaching and learning.
• Collaborate with the Faculty Development team to enhance learning opportunities for faculty, focusing on areas relevant to the curriculum of the MPAS program, and ensuring effective teaching practices.
• Work closely with content-experts to improve the delivery of various learning components, determining and implementing effective teaching methods that promote evidence-based practices and align with the program’s objectives.

Program Management and Quality Assurance:

• Coordinate with various internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of the program, managing scheduling, resource allocation, and technology integration effectively.
• Monitor program timelines and milestones, providing regular updates to leadership and recommending adjustments to ensure timely progress and achievement of program objectives.
• Conduct ongoing evaluation of the program to ensure quality, compliance with accreditation standards, and continuous improvement, assisting in preparing accreditation documentation and participating in site visits.

Education: Master’s degree in Education, Health Professions Education, Educational Psychology, or a related field.  An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Experience: A minimum of five years’ experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating educational curriculum in higher education is required, preferably in health sciences or medical education. Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of accreditation processes and standards in health education programs is required.