Physician Associate Program - Program Director Alvernia University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Physician Associate Program - Program Director. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a growing program at a university that demonstrates strong institutional commitment to its health sciences offerings. Alvernia has invested in modern facilities, instructional spaces, and infrastructure to support high-quality PA education, creating a strong foundation for continued program development and long-term success. Reporting to the Dean of the College of Health Science, the Program Director provides strategic, academic, and operational leadership for the PA Program. This includes supervision of the Medical Director, Principal Faculty, and staff, with an emphasis on collaboration, shared governance, and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will join at a pivotal moment, with Accreditation-Provisional status and strong institutional support, and will play a central role in advancing the program in alignment with ARC-PA standards, University priorities, and Alvernias Franciscan mission. Alvernia also seeks a Director of Curriculum Innovation and Program Assessment. View that profile here.
Duties and Responsibilities:- Leadership & Administration
- Provide responsive, communicative, and solutions-oriented leadership
- Supervise faculty, staff, and Medical Director
- Oversee program operations, committees, records, and evaluations
- Ensure equitable workload distribution
- Fiscal Management
- Develop and manage the program budget
- Ensure compliance with ARC-PA and PAEA requirements
- Program Development & Assessment
- Lead curriculum development and continuous program evaluation
- Ensure compliance with ARC-PA standards and reporting
- Oversee accreditation processes, annual reports, and portal submissions
- Program Planning
- Collaborate with faculty and Medical Director on mission, goals, admissions, and clinical education
- Use assessment data to guide program improvements
- Student Oversight
- Participate in admissions decisions
- Monitor academic progress, provide advising, and ensure graduation requirements are met
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications:- Masters degree from an accredited university
- Current or emeritus NCCPA certification
- Minimum of 3 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant Minimum of 3 years of full-time experience in PA education
- Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Thorough knowledge of ARC-PA accreditation standards, policies, and reporting requirements Demonstrated leadership ability in academic or clinical education settings
- Ability to develop, evaluate, and continuously improve PA curriculum
- Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, students, and University leadership Commitment to student success, mentorship, and professional development Ability to manage budgets, resources, and operational priorities
- About Alvernia University:
Alvernia University, located in Reading, PA, is a vibrant, values-driven institution grounded in the Catholic, Franciscan, and liberal arts traditions. Guided by the ideal of knowledge joined with love, Alvernia fosters academic excellence, service, and experiential learning.
Recognized by the Carnegie Foundation in 2025 as a leader in student opportunity and economic mobility, Alvernia is also designated a High Access, High Earnings Opportunity institution, reflecting its commitment to student success and long-term impact.to transforming students lives and expanding pathways to lasting success.
About the Physician Associate Program: The Physician Associate Program at Alvernia offers both a 3+2 accelerated Bio-PA track and a traditional post-baccalaureate pathway leading to a Master of Medical Science. The 24-month program includes three didactic semesters followed by three clinical semesters and is delivered in a hybrid format. The program holds Accreditation-Provisional status from ARC-PA and aligns with current standards and the NCCPA PANCE blueprint.
About the Community:
Reading, Pennsylvania, Reading, Pennsylvania, is a historic city in the Schuylkill River Valley with a diverse economy and vibrant arts and cultural scene. The region offers affordable living, access to outdoor recreation, and proximity to Philadelphia and other major East Coast cities. Nearby communities in Berks County and Chester County provide additional residential options with strong amenities and quality of life.
Application and Nomination Process:
All correspondence relating to the position of Physician Associate Program - Program Director at Alvernia University should be directed in confidence to the Universitys executive search consultant:
Cathryn Mountain, Assistant Vice President
Scott Healy & complete application should include the following:1.Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;2.Updated CV;3.Contact information for three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)The search will remain open until the position is filled.
Alvernia University is seeking candidates who are committed to excellence of inclusion through working with all constituents of the entire Alvernia community.
Alvernia University is an equal opportunity employer committed to Franciscan values and achieving excellence through diversity and inclusion.
