About University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
UMass Dartmouth distinguishes itself as a dynamic public research university dedicated to engaged learning and innovative research, resulting in lifelong student success. The University’s story is one of tremendous momentum and continuous expansion. Established in 1895, UMass Dartmouth has evolved from its textile roots into a comprehensive, nationally ranked research university that offers an array of highly regarded undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and sciences, business, engineering, nursing, medical laboratory science, and the visual and performing arts. The University also includes the only public law school in Massachusetts (UMass Law) and a School of Marine Science and Technology offering graduate degrees. Recently, the University launched an Honors College that features dedicated living and learning spaces, including Honors residence hall accommodations, classrooms, study spaces, and a computer lab. The University also boasts brand new first-year residence halls and dining commons with the goal of fostering a vibrant and welcoming residential community for students from their first days on campus.
Ranked second in Massachusetts for social mobility, UMass Dartmouth is proud to serve as an important engine of opportunity for a diverse and talented student body. Roughly 40 percent of UMass Dartmouth’s most recent incoming undergraduate class identify as students of color, roughly half are the first in their families to attend college, and 47 percent qualify for federal Pell Grants. The University’s total enrollment is roughly 7450 students, including approximately 4,700 undergraduates, 1200 graduate students, (including roughly 350 law students) and 1850 online students. Roughly half of UMass Dartmouth’s undergraduate students reside on campus, and dedicated housing has recently been made available to graduate and law students as well.
As a national research university, UMass Dartmouth is committed to creating new knowledge and employing those discoveries to the common good in multiple ways, including by contributing to the economic development of the region, the state, and beyond. Faculty offer personalized teaching and pursue innovative research while providing a distinctive learning and living environment for students to become informed and productive global citizens.
UMass Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). On September 25, 2020, NECHE voted to continue the University's accreditation for another ten years.
The campus has evolved from a largely commuter campus to a residential environment, with most residential students living in residence halls that have been built or renovated within the last decade. More than 70 percent of undergraduate classes have 20 or fewer students, and 92 percent of classes have fewer than 50 students.
UMass Dartmouth has eight colleges and schools that offer 60 undergraduate, 42 master’s, and 13 doctoral degree programs, and the Commonwealth’s only public law school. The University now offers 21 undergraduate degrees, nine graduate degrees, and 17 certificate programs fully online. U.S. News and World Report ranks UMass Dartmouth among the top 25 percent nationally for its online bachelor programs, with nationally ranked online MBA, computer science MS, and nursing MS programs.
Additionally, a successful university extension—the Online & Continuing Education department— serves students who choose to pursue their degrees on a part-time basis or take additional courses for personal or professional enrichment. Courses are offered online and on-campus.
The Role of the Dean of the School of Law
UMass Dartmouth, a thriving public research university and critical engine of social mobility, invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of its School of Law (UMass Law). UMass Law is the only public law school in Massachusetts and has enjoyed an upward trajectory of enrollment growth in recent years. The Dean will lead the School of Law during a pivotal time in its history and will have the opportunity to craft and build consensus around an inspirational and cohesive strategy for its future. The ideal candidate will capitalize on the Law School’s recent momentum, and chart a path forward by providing scholarly support, inspiration, and strategic direction to a talented group of faculty, staff, and students
The UMass Law Deanship is an extraordinary opportunity for an innovative and visionary leader. The ideal candidate will inspire a diverse constituency to advance the School of Law’s mission and values, which focuses on preparing students not only for careers in law but also to become forces for positive change. Additionally, the next Dean will bring solid financial acumen, a proven track record of fundraising, and the ability to nurture a culture of philanthropic stewardship. The Dean will ensure that UMass Law remains student-centered, is welcoming and inclusive, continues the University’s commitment to serving the public interest, and values all expressions of diversity. The Dean will ensure that the Law School continues to prioritize academic rigor, sustain vigorous shared governance, and support students and alumni in their journeys to become capable professionals and engaged citizens. The Dean will provide transparent leadership, build consensus, and value collaborative problem-solving and decision-making. Finally, and importantly, the Dean will promote the scholarship and teaching of the School’s renowned faculty on the national stage.
Contact Information
This is a full-time position that will be performed on site in Massachusetts. Salary will be commensurate with experience and will include a generous benefits package.
For best consideration, please send all nominations and applications to UMassDartmouthLawDean@storbecksearch.com.