Core Faculty Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Weekend Program (MSOT-W)

Shenandoah University’s School of Health Professions is accepting applications for Core Faculty in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy- Weekend Program (MSOT-W). This full-time benefited position will work out of our Winchester, VA, Health Professions Building campus.

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) Weekend Hybrid program at Shenandoah University stands out as a uniquely accommodating educational pathway. Designed with nontraditional students in mind, it merges online coursework with weekend on-campus sessions, providing crucial flexibility for students balancing various life demands such as employment, caregiving, or other personal commitments. This innovative approach not only facilitates continued professional work but also opens the program to students who reside at extended distances or even out-of-state. By enabling them to commute for weekend classes, the program extends educational opportunities to a broader audience who might not otherwise have the capacity to relocate or attend weekday classes. This hybrid model is a testament to Shenandoah University's commitment to increasing accessibility and supporting diverse student needs in achieving their educational and professional goals.

This is a career-contract track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor and involves a comprehensive range of academic and professional responsibilities in a hybrid teaching format:

• Hybrid Teaching Model: As part of our hybrid weekend program, the faculty member will lead and facilitate courses on campus for 7 weekends during the fall and spring semesters and 4 weekends over the summer semester. Core faculty members are also expected to be available for various on-campus engagements as needed, including but not limited to faculty meetings, service opportunities, program planning sessions, and other departmental or university-wide events. Core faculty are required to be physically present on campus during these face-to-face weekend courses. When not required to be on campus for teaching, faculty may work remotely, supporting students through various digital platforms and engaging in curriculum development, research, and other academic duties.
• Teaching and Curriculum Development: Lead and deliver innovative courses focused on introduction to research, research design, and research implementation. Develop and update curriculum to reflect the latest trends and standards in occupational therapy and ensure alignment with ACOTE standards.
• Student Advising and Support: Provide academic advising and mentoring throughout the MSOT program's didactic and clinical phases. Engage with students to support their academic progress and professional development, ensuring a supportive learning environment that accommodates diverse learning styles and backgrounds.
• Scholarship and Research: Actively engage in scholarship and research activities, contributing to the field of occupational therapy. Encourage and facilitate the involvement of students in research initiatives, enhancing their skills and preparing them for professional success. Additionally, mentor faculty within the Division of OT and SHP in their scholarship and research endeavors, fostering a culture of academic excellence and continuous development.
• Service to the Profession and Community: Participate in service activities that benefit the OT profession, the university, and the broader community. This includes active involvement in program, school, and university committees, as well as professional service opportunities that enhance the visibility and impact of the OT program.
• Interprofessional Education and Collaboration: Collaborate with other health profession programs at Shenandoah University to provide interprofessional education opportunities; enhancing collaborative practice and learning among different healthcare disciplines.
• Recruitment and Retention: Actively participate in the recruitment and retention of a diverse student body, faculty, and staff. Implement and support initiatives that promote inclusivity and diversity within the MSOT-W program Division of OT, and SHP, aligning with the university and OT profession’s commitment to DEIJ.

This position requires a candidate who is prepared to lead by example, demonstrating a deep commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and justice in all aspects of their professional conduct and practice.

We are looking for an individual who can effectively collaborate with faculty, students, staff, and across the university. The ideal candidate will have a strong desire to serve both our profession and the global community and will deeply value equal opportunity and a safe, welcoming environment in healthcare practice. This position requires a professional who is committed to enhancing the educational experience through innovative teaching, research, and community engagement, ensuring that our program aligns with the highest standards of academic excellence and inclusivity.

Required Qualifications

• Educational Background: Candidates must have graduated from an accredited occupational therapy program. Possession of a Doctoral degree, whether clinical or research-focused, is preferred.
• Scholarship: A proven record of scholarship is essential, demonstrating the candidate’s engagement with ongoing research and contributions to the field of occupational therapy.
• Certifications: Current NBCOT certification and eligibility for licensure in the Commonwealth of Virginia are required to ensure compliance with professional standards.
• Professional Membership: Being a current member of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is preferred, which supports professional development and connection to the occupational therapy community.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial. The candidate should be adept at promoting a safe, welcoming environment and possess the ability to foster inclusivity among all members of the community.

• Clinical Experience: A minimum of two years of clinical experience is preferred, providing the candidate with relevant insights and practical expertise that can be integrated into our dynamic curriculum.
• Teaching Experience: At least two years of teaching experience at the post-baccalaureate level is preferred. Experience in teaching research design, implementation, and other occupational therapy-specific courses is also preferred.

How to apply:

To ensure a comprehensive review, applicants are asked to submit the following materials, which will help the selection committee understand each candidate's qualifications and philosophy, as well as their commitment to equal opportunity and creating a safe, welcoming environment:

Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through its faculty, administration, and staff diversity. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing how they can contribute to that commitment.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.