Degree Program Coordinator

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Why join Harvard Divinity School?

Harvard Divinity School (HDS) is a nonsectarian school of religious and theological studies that educates students both in the pursuit of the academic study of religion and in preparation for leadership in religious, governmental, and a wide range of service organizations. HDS provides an intellectual home where scholars and professionals from around the globe research and teach the varieties of religion, in service of a just world at peace across religious and cultural divides.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs, the Academic Program Coordinator provides comprehensive administrative, academic, and operational support for the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) Program, the Master in Religion and Public Life (MRPL), and the Certificate in Religion and Public Life (CRPL) internship program.

The Coordinator also works productively with the Faculty Chair of the MTS program and the Director of Religion and Public Life. The Coordinator serves as the primary administrative contact for prospective students, current students, faculty, alumni, and external partners, ensuring the effective day-to-day operation of these academic programs (MTS, CRPL, MRPL). Responsibilities include academic program administration, student advising, internship coordination, assessment, communications, some meeting and event planning, financial administration, and special projects.

Working collaboratively across Harvard Divinity School and with all the colleagues in the Office for Academic Affairs, the Coordinator helps ensure an exceptional educational experience for students while advancing the strategic goals of the MTS and CRPL programs.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Master in Religion and Public Life (MRPL)

                Program Administration

• Coordinate the day-to-day administration of the one-year Master in Religion and Public Life program. 
• Develop and maintain the annual academic calendar, including admissions, orientation, registration, advising, capstone activities, graduation, and special events. 
• Prepare reports and program materials for faculty leadership and the HDS administration. 
• Ensure compliance with university academic policies and procedures. 
• Serve as the primary administrative contact for prospective and enrolled MRPL students.  

                Program Communications and Events

• Coordinate MRPL orientations, networking events, and commencement-related programming. 
• Maintain program websites, newsletters, and communications. 
• Coordinate marketing and recruitment materials in collaboration with communications staff. 

Certificate in Religion and Public Life (CRPL)

                Internship and Experiential Learning

• Coordinate all aspects of the Religion and Public Life internship program, managing student experience, compensation, and assessment.
• Advise students throughout the CRPL experience, from recruitment, through course selection, internship, and capstone project. 
• Develop and maintain relationships with internship partners across nonprofit, governmental, educational, philanthropic, and religious organizations. 
• Coordinate internship recruitment, application review, placement, orientation, supervision, and evaluation. 
• Serve as the primary liaison among students, faculty advisors, and internship supervisors. 
• Maintain internship records, assessment data, and annual reports. 
• Support the continuous improvement of experiential learning opportunities 

Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

                Program Administration

• Support the Chair and members of the MTS Committee by scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, taking and distributing meeting minutes, and maintaining official committee records. 
• Advise students in course planning.
• Work closely with the MTS Curriculum Committee to develop programming that enhances advising and student engagement. 
• Coordinate assessment activities for the MTS Program in partnership with the HDS Registrar, including distributing, collecting, and compiling approved assessment instruments and questionnaires. 
• Assist with reports related to accreditation, assessment, institutional effectiveness, and strategic planning. 

Administrative Operations

• Assist with budget tracking and financial reconciliation. 
• Coordinate logistics for committee meetings, academic events, and faculty activities.  
• Supervise student workers and temporary staff, as assigned. 
• Support additional academic and administrative initiatives as needed. 

Working Conditions:

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, exempt position. The position follows Harvard University's hybrid work guidelines. The Coordinator is expected to be in the office and on campus at least four days per week during the semesters. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support admissions, orientations, special events, conferences, and commencement activities.

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in higher education, academic administration, program management, student services, or a related field. Education beyond high school may count toward the experience requirement.

• IMPORTANT NOTE: Your cover letter and resume should be combined into a SINGLE DOCUMENT under the resume tab. Cover letters are required for every position at Harvard Divinity School. We regret that the Harvard Divinity School does not provide Visa sponsorship.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. 
• Master's degree and experience in Religious Studies preferred. 
• Experience administering internships, experiential learning, or professional education programs. 
• Experience supporting graduate or professional academic programs. 
• Experience coordinating faculty committees and academic governance. 
• Excellent organizational, project management, and communication skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently and exercise sound judgment. 
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, student information systems, and database management. 
• Experience planning events and coordinating complex projects. 
• Familiarity with religious studies, theology, public life, or higher education is desirable. 

• 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 some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. 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 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.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 055. 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.