Full Job Description
About the Position
The School of Health Sciences and Human Performance (HSHP) at Ithaca College, in partnership with Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Program Director, Clinical Assistant/Associate Professor, Physician Assistant Studies.
Ithaca College seeks a dynamic, collaborative leader committed to advancing the program’s equity framework, furthering its vision, and guiding the program toward long-term sustainability as a nationally recognized accredited program. The Program Director leads a team of seven faculty and related support staff and reports directly to the Dean of HSHP.
This is primarily an administrative role with limited teaching expectations. Pursuit of scholarly activity or clinical practice, along with service to the program, school, and college, is required. This is a 12-month full-time multi-year renewable notice (MYRN) faculty appointment. Academic rank will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Start date is negotiable.
Responsibilities
- Perform all duties of the Program Director as described in the ARC-PA standards.
- Serve as an effective program leader, manager, and administrator.
- Set strategic priorities and manage program implementation aligned with budget and resources.
- Supervise, mentor, and address concerns from the Medical Director, faculty, and staff.
- Guide faculty in curricular revisions and assessment to ensure compliance with ARC-PA and college standards.
- Support student advising and success initiatives.
- Foster community relationships and partnerships with regional K-12 schools to promote the PA profession.
- Use transparent communication and active listening with stakeholders.
- Ensure the program meets all ARC-PA accreditation standards and college policies.
- Lead and participate in faculty and staff recruitment, development, and evaluation.
- Provide guidance on student recruitment, selection, and retention.
- Maintain connections with national PA-related associations.
- Collaborate on interprofessional initiatives within HSHP and across the college.
- Attend school and college leadership meetings as required.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree from an accredited PA program.
- Current NCCPA certification and eligibility for New York licensure within 6 months of hire.
- Minimum of 3 years of higher education experience.
- Minimum of 2 years of full-time clinical experience.
- Knowledge of PA education, ARC-PA standards, and the PA role in healthcare delivery.
Preferred Qualifications
- Evidence of visionary leadership and strong interpersonal skills.
- Experience in curriculum design and assessment.
- Experience in budgeting and staffing management.
- Experience collaborating within and beyond higher education.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity and working with diverse student populations.
Compensation
$155,000 – $170,000
About Ithaca College
Ithaca College is a comprehensive residential campus community of approximately 5,000 students, consistently ranked among the best in the Northeast. The College offers 70 majors and 70 minors across five schools, emphasizing integrative learning, small class sizes, and professional mentorship.
The School of Health Sciences and Human Performance offers graduate degrees in multiple health-related fields, including physician assistant studies, athletic training, exercise science, occupational and physical therapy, and speech-language pathology.
Located in the scenic Finger Lakes region, Ithaca College overlooks Cayuga Lake and is just minutes from downtown Ithaca, a vibrant, culturally rich community often rated among the top 10 places to live in the U.S.
About the Physician Assistant Studies Program
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies is a 27-month residential program enrolling 50 learners annually. Its mission is to educate, engage, and empower PAs to achieve excellence through medical theory, clinical practice, and professional performance in historically marginalized and underserved communities. The program is provisionally accredited by ARC-PA, with a site visit scheduled for Fall 2025.
Program Highlights
- 20,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility with clinical learning and simulation centers.
- Emphasis on Team-Based Learning and interprofessional collaboration.
- Leadership and Professional Series to develop advocacy and leadership skills.
- Transition to Clinical Practice course preparing learners for PANCE and clinical readiness.
About Ithaca, New York
Ithaca, NY, located in the Finger Lakes region, is known for its stunning natural beauty, progressive community, and vibrant arts scene. Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the city offers exceptional quality of life, outdoor recreation, and a strong job market centered around education, healthcare, tech, and sustainable agriculture.
Application Process
All correspondence regarding this position should be directed in confidence to:
Christopher Healy, President
chris@scotthealy.com
Scott Healy & Associates
313 South Oak Grove Rd
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Complete applications should include:
- Cover Letter outlining interest and qualifications.
- Updated CV.
- Three professional references (with no contact made without written permission).
Applications received by July 28, 2025, will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.
Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages applications from members of underrepresented groups. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.