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Harvard University

Senior Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education, Curriculum and Special Programs

Closes:

816
Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard's undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard's Ph. D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary:

Provide strategic direction, leadership and guidance. Direct academic affairs operation including faculty support, curriculum management and training.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education, Academic Programs and Policy in the Office of Undergraduate Education, the Senior Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Education is a high-level administrative and leadership role responsible for providing strategic direction for the Harvard College undergraduate curriculum. Working as a member of a group of administrative leaders in units that report to the Dean of Undergraduate Education, the Senior Assistant Dean is centrally involved in the administration of policy concerning the undergraduate academic program, especially as it impacts pedagogy and curricular support for faculty and special academic programs. The Senior Assistant Dean partners with faculty to provide administrative and strategic governance for flagship academic and experiential learning programs.
  • Independent Study/Experiential Study: Oversees the Independent Study program. Independent Study is designed to provide credit for field research, academic study not available in regular course work, or practice or performance in the arts. The Senior Assistant Dean is responsible for advising undergraduates in all aspects of the program and for its administrative oversight. The Senior Assistant Dean will also oversee the Experiential Study Program in collaboration with academic departments.
  • Lemann Program: Oversees director of the Lemann Program on Creativity and Entrepreneurship. Based on College goals and priorities, works with director to set program goals, ensuring effective leadership, program excellence, and institutional alignment. Participates in Harvard College Curriculum meetings as a representative of the program to ensure it stays aligned with the vision of the Curriculum team.
  • Mindich Program: Oversees program staff for Mindich courses and the Certificate for Civic Engagement. Based on College goals and priorities, works with director to set program goals, ensuring effective leadership, program excellence, and institutional alignment. Participates in Harvard College Curriculum meetings as a representative of the program to ensure it stays aligned with the vision of the Curriculum team.
  • Special Concentrations: The Senior Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Education also serves as the Director of Studies in Special Concentrations. The special concentration option is intended for students whose academic and intellectual interests cannot be served well enough by one of Harvard's existing concentrations but are best suited to an individualized plan of study. As Director of Studies, the Senior Assistant Dean is responsible for advising undergraduates in all aspects of the program. This includes advising students interested in a special concentration, guiding applicants through the process, and serving as the primary academic adviser for all Special concentrators. The Senior Assistant Dean works with and supports the Standing Committee on Special Concentrations and oversees the application process for students.
  • Teaching Prizes: The Senior Assistant Dean will work with the Associate Dean on administering the Anya Bernstein Bassett Prize for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching and will consult on candidates for additional faculty prizes as needed.
  • Phi Beta Kappa: Oversees the Phi Beta Kappa election process and events in collaboration with the PBK Officers. Ensures that PBK election process is consistent with College's overall values.
  • Other duties and committee service as determined by the Associate Dean.
Working Conditions:

The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs and objectives and consistent with College Policy, which requires 5 days on-site in Cambridge, MA during term time (first day of classes through commencement), with the exception of student breaks. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details about the College policy will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Physical Requirements:
  • Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time
  • Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion
Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience required
  • Minimum of 10 years' relevant work experience
  • Supervisory experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
  • Ability to work and negotiate directly with faculty is essential.
  • Superb communication and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to research and synthesize complex issues and data; and the ability to work with a number of different constituencies.
  • Strong skills in teaching and knowledge of new pedagogies are essential.
  • Knowledge of the Harvard College curriculum strongly preferred.
  • Previous budget experience a plus.
  • Ph. D. preferred, but not required.
Additional Information
  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 060. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Senior Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education, Curriculum and Special Programs
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Sep 3, 2026
Closes:
Nov 2, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Faculty Affairs

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About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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