Director of Northern State Early College

Posting Details

Posting Details

Logo https://pa-hrsuite-production.s3.amazonaws.com/1225/docs/115824.png Institution Northern State University Working Title Director of Northern State Early College Posting Number NFE03185P Department NSU-Provost Physical Location of Position (City) Aberdeen Posting Text

Northern State University seeks a collaborative and strategic leader to serve as Director of Northern State Early College.

This role provides leadership for a unified early college model that expands access to postsecondary education and strengthens student transition from high school to college. The Director will lead the integration of dual credit programs into a single, coordinated system and build a consistent, high-quality experience for students, families, and school partners.

The Director works closely with faculty, academic units, student support services, and school districts across South Dakota. This position focuses on creating clear pathways, strengthening advising and student support, and increasing college-going and persistence for students participating in early college programs.

What You Will Do

• Lead strategy and execution for all Early College and dual credit initiatives
• Build a unified program that brings together multiple pathways and delivery models
• Design consistent onboarding, advising, and transition experiences for students
• Strengthen partnerships with high schools, counselors, families, and communities
• Oversee advising systems, student success programming, and transition support
• Align academic pathways and ensure quality across online, on-campus, and high school delivery
• Supervise staff, manage operations, and oversee program resources
• Use data to guide decisions, improve outcomes, and inform stakeholders

What You Bring

• Master's degree in higher education, education, leadership, or a related field
• Experience in higher education, K-12 partnerships, or student success initiatives
• Ability to collaborate across campus and with external partners
• Experience designing advising, student success, or access-focused programs
• Strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Commitment to expanding access and supporting students who face barriers to higher education

Additional Information This position reports to the Provost and requires regular travel to partner schools across South Dakota.

Northern State University is committed to expanding access to higher education and creating strong pathways and opportunities for all students. The Director of Northern State Early College plays a central role in building a coordinated, statewide model that supports students from their first college course through degree completion.

Posting Date 08/27/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes First Consideration Date 09/17/2026 Advertised Salary 65,000 Duration of the Term 12 months If Other, describe duration Appointment Percent 100 Work Hours

8-5 Monday through Friday, 12 months

Typical Hours Worked Per Week 40 Appointment Type Regular Faculty Status No Scope of Search External (includes Internal) If internal, define scope of search This position requires Travel, Overnight stays, Valid Drivers License If other, please indicate Department Description and Cultural Expectations

Academic Affairs at Northern State University is committed to expanding access, strengthening student success, and building a more integrated, student-centered experience. Success depends on collaboration across faculty, staff, and partners, with strong expectations for shared governance and collective responsibility.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Northern State University is committed to building a welcoming culture of belonging and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture and world view. Northern seeks faculty and staff who will engage with individuals of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives to increase awareness, understanding, respect and opportunity for all.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Contact Information

Working Conditions

Cognitive Requirements

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Physical Requirements

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Sensory Requirements

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Working Conditions & Exposures

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Working Environment

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Supplemental Questions

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Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Reference List

Optional Documents