Career Center

The Dean of the Michigan College of Optometry (MCO) serves as the chief executive and academic officer for the MCO and the University Eye Center and is responsible for maintaining and advancing the Doctor of Optometry professional degree program. The Dean will plan, supervise, and coordinate all activity within the college, including but not limited to the preparation, implementation, and maintenance of grants; supervision of teaching, service, and research activities of faculty, staff, and students on the Big Rapids campus and all clinical locations; development and administration of academic policy and programs; review, approve, and administer the college budget; maintain accreditation standards and oversee ongoing reaffirmation of accreditation activities. The Dean will serve on the Deans’ Council and other committees as needed and/or assigned.

The anticipated start date for this position is July of 2023. However, this is an estimated date and can be revised if needed.

Demonstrated work experience in higher education, to include teaching as well as scholarship, research, professional service, or creative endeavors. Experience as a Department Chair, Associate Dean or similar leadership role. Three years of demonstrated successful experience in academic optometric administration, including evidence of an ability to: recruit, lead, serve and develop a diverse faculty, staff, and student body; promote general and globalized education; and support didactic and clinical education in a variety of delivery modes and learning environments. Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Demonstrated experience with a focus on student success, recruitment, retention and graduation. Demonstrated experience or ability to strengthen enrollment. Demonstrated progression of comprehensive administrative skills, supervision and budget management. Evidence of a strong commitment to shared governance based on respect for faculty and staff. Personal qualities of integrity, organization, and industriousness.

Current active optometric license, and eligible for optometric licensure in the State of Michigan.

About Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University

The Michigan College of Optometry prepares doctoral and post-doctoral students for successful careers as optometric health care leaders serving patients and society with integrity and professionalism. The program serves the health care needs of the public through its research, scholarly activity, evidence based clinical education and patient-centered care. We do this through the hard work of dedicated staff and outstanding faculty to meet the needs of today’s learner. MCO has a unique combination of smaller class sizes and a beautiful facility that is designed for collaborative learning and offers advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technology. We strive to educate optometrists who will be at the forefront of patient care throughout their careers.

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