The University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications, expressions of interest, and nominations for the role of Dean, College of Graduate Studies. UCF seeks an experienced and dynamic leader to set a strategic vision for graduate education at the University, support the growth of graduate programs, and establish collaborative working partnerships with academic units across the institution.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1963 to provide talent for Central Florida and the growing U.S. space program, UCF has been making an impact on the state, the nation — and outer space — ever since.
From the signing of the legislative bill that established a university in Central Florida to being one of the largest universities in the United States, UCF has become a partnership university with groundbreaking research, innovative education, and academic excellence.
With more than 69,000 students, UCF is the largest university by enrollment in Florida and one of the largest universities in the nation. It has more than 13,000 employees and an operating budget of over $2 billion. UCF researchers received $229 million in fiscal year 2024 for funded research. In Fall 2024, the freshman class had an average SAT combined score of 1342, the Burnett Honors College enrolled 510 new students, and the number of incoming National Merit Scholars ranked UCF among the top 25 colleges and universities. Additional details are available at this link.
The University offers 104 bachelor’s, 98 master’s, 33 research doctorates, 3 professional doctorates and 3 specialist degree programs, and it leads all universities in Florida in conferring more than 18,000 degrees a year. UCF is committed to innovative community partnerships, world-class research with local impact, and the integration of technology and learning.
THE ROLE OF DEAN
The College of Graduate Studies (CGS) is an advocate for postbaccalaureate education and training, working to mobilize the resources needed for graduate students and postdoctoral scholar success. We track and analyze emerging trends and changes in graduate education/postdoctoral training and provide support and guidance for our university partners. The College is mindful of the need to retain the academic values of graduate programs contributing to the social and economic well-being of the community, state, nation and world.
The dean of the College of Graduate Studies will provide the overall vision and leadership required to define and fulfill the College of Graduate Studies' missions and to achieve the university's goals of excellence and impact in teaching, research, and service. The dean will work across disciplines, with administrators, faculty, staff members, and community leaders to champion quality academic programs and provide leadership for developing new degree programs.
The dean reports to the senior vice provost and oversees all administrative, operational, academic, financial, and personnel matters of the College. The direct reports to the dean include senior associate dean for student services; senior associate dean for admissions and funding, associate dean for curriculum, interdisciplinary studies, thesis, and dissertation; director of postdoctoral affairs; communications manager; an executive assistant; and an associate director for College IT infrastructure.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Terminal degree in any UCF related field, from an accredited institution.
- Demonstrated scholarly and professional achievement sufficient to merit appointments to graduate faculty status at the rank of a tenured professor in their discipline.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and managerial skills needed to oversee a large unit, manage budgets, foster collaborations, lead the college towards its goals, and work collaboratively as a university leader.
- Significant experience working directly with graduate students (teaching, mentoring, and/or supervising) and an understanding of the unique needs involved in supporting graduate students.
- Experience with graduate programming and curriculum development
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Awareness of national and global trends in graduate education.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills, as evidenced by a record of successful interaction with faculty members, staff, and students.
- Awareness of the opportunities related to multidisciplinary activities and research.
- Exceptional communication skills
PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY
FOR FULL CONSIDERATION, APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE RECEIVED BY February 1, 2026. Review of materials will continue until the position is filled. The University of Central Florida is an Equal Opportunity employer. All applications and nominations will be handled with the strictest confidentiality until the finalist phase.
Note to applicants: Please keep in mind that a job posted as ‘Open until filled’ may close at any time without notice. As such, we encourage you to submit your application and all required documentation as quickly as possible to ensure consideration for the posted position.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV via the DSG | Storbeck Talent Profile.