"MPA Program Coordinator & Instructor"

Job Details

MPA Program Coordinator & Instructor (Part-Time, 12-Month Instructor)

Department: Social & Behavioral Sciences

Location: Columbia, MO or Remote

Type: Part-Time Instructor, 12-Month

Proposed Start Date: May 2026

Pay: $34,666-$41,333

Job Summary:

The Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences in the School of Arts & Sciences at Columbia College invites applications for an MPA Program Coordinator (Part-Time, 12-Month Instructor) to support the launch of a fully online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program beginning Fall 2026. This role offers an exciting leadership opportunity for a faculty member or senior practitioner motivated by building programs, shaping curriculum, and advancing graduate education in public service.

Beginning in May 2026, the Program Coordinator will play a foundational role in preparing for the program’s inaugural launch. This 12-month appointment emphasizes program leadership, coordination, and administration, with a lighter teaching load of 9 credit hours annually. The Coordinator will work closely with the Department Chair and faculty colleagues to establish program systems, support curriculum implementation, mentor adjunct faculty, and create a strong, student-centered online learning experience.

The MPA program prepares students for ethical and effective leadership in public, nonprofit, and civic organizations. The Program Coordinator will help shape the program’s identity and infrastructure by maintaining curriculum relevance, using assessment to support continuous improvement, and fostering a connected and supportive online learning environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence systems, processes, and program culture from the ground up.

Columbia College is known for its student-centered approach, small class sizes, and commitment to accessible, high-quality education. The College values collaboration, professional expertise, cultural humility, and faculty leadership that advances both academic excellence and public service. Faculty and program leaders are encouraged to engage in recruitment, student support, curriculum development, and cross-program collaboration as part of a collegial and mission-driven academic community.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Public Administration or a closely related field (e.g., public policy, nonprofit management, public affairs).
• Relevant professional experience in public, nonprofit, or civic organizations, or a combination of professional and graduate‑level teaching experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate program‑level work across an academic year.
• Strong communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.
• Commitment to public service values, ethical leadership, and student success.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in Public Administration or a closely related field.
• Experience with program coordination, curriculum development, assessment, or academic administration.
• Experience teaching or supporting teaching in online or hybrid graduate programs.
• Experience working with adjunct faculty and supporting instructional quality.
• Interest in helping launch and shape a new graduate program, including building systems and program culture.

Required Application Materials:

• Cover letter, including the names and contact information of three references from professional colleagues
• Curriculum vitae
• Teaching philosophy
• Copies of transcripts (official transcripts are required before employment)

Other Requirements: Ability to satisfy, within the parameters set by the College and consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, a criminal background check as a condition of employment.

Special Requirements (if any): Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.

Physical Requirements: The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Individuals seeking accommodation should contact the Human Resources Department without delay. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time, talk, and hear. The employee is required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crawl. Employee must be able to type on a computer keyboard and use a computer monitor on a regular basis.

Work Conditions: The work environment conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions; however, possible exposure to hazards and physical risks to personal safety may occur while operating certain equipment. The noise level in the work environment is usually mild.

Interested applicants may apply online at www.ccis.edu/careers. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Columbia College is an equal opportunity employer.

This job description is not meant to be all-inclusive of every duty and responsibility required by the employee in the position.