The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) seeks an innovative, experienced educator to lead its School of Arts and Sciences, as the university pursues its mission of providing a transformational, student-centered learning experience based on the North American model of higher education enriched by attention to the culture of the region. 

Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences

American University of Ras Al Khaimah

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) seeks an innovative, experienced educator to lead its School of Arts and Sciences, as the university pursues its mission of providing a transformational, student-centered learning experience based on the North American model of higher education enriched by attention to the culture of the region. 

The School of Arts and Sciences currently consists of three departments (Biotechnology,  Humanities and Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences and Mathematics) employing 36 full-time faculty and offers undergraduate degrees in Biotechnology and Mass Communication and a master’s degree and post-graduate diploma in Educational Leadership.  The School provides most of the university’s General Education coursework for students in all programs at the university.

Required Qualifications:

• Earned Doctorate in an academic discipline represented in the programs or courses offered in the school.
• Scholarly publications and university-level teaching experience consistent with faculty appointment at the rank of Professor.
• History of at least five years of effective higher education leadership.
• Experience with the North American model of higher education.
• Experience with academic accreditation at the university and program level.
• Record of leadership in development and implementation of strategic plans.
• High level of proficiency in written and spoken English, as all instruction and communication at the university is in English.

Preferred Experience and Personal Qualities:

• Experience living and working in multiple international settings.
• Cultural sensitivity.
• Record of developing and implementing new academic programs.
• Evidence of collegiality and effective advocacy for university initiatives.
• Resiliency, optimism, and adaptability.

Special Leadership Opportunities:

• Revamping existing programs and developing new programs to grow enrollment.
• Promoting academic rigor and the use of high-impact educational practices.
• Promoting high-impact research.
• Guiding programs to prestigious international accreditations.
• Expanding community engagement initiatives.
• Nurturing a culture of collaboration among faculty and staff.

Description of AURAK:

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is a public non-profit, independent, coeducational institution of higher education which delivers an integrated American-style, undergraduate and graduate education.  All programs are accredited by the Ministry of Education of the UAE. In addition, AURAK achieved accreditation with the U.S. regional accreditation association, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in 2018 and has begun preparations for reaffirmation of its accreditation in 2023. The American model of higher education ensures not only the acquisition of knowledge and skills in specific academic fields, but also a general education curriculum that exposes students to new ideas and ways of thinking critically about local and global issues. The multicultural faculty and student body at AURAK offers candidates the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in one of the most diverse countries in the world. AURAK is located in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the Northern Emirates and a rapidly growing region.  The beauty of Ras Al Khaimah is reflected in its traditions and diverse landscapes — its white sandy beaches, the majestic Hajjar Mountains, the expansive desert and its sands dunes, and the many historical sites.  For more information about the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), please visit: http://www.aurak.ac.ae.

Application Submission: Application materials must be submitted online

Incomplete applications will not be acknowledged. Complete applications include the following items: 

• Cover letter
• Statement of leadership philosophy
• Detailed curriculum vitae (résumé)
• Copies of all transcripts – official transcripts will be required upon hiring
• Four references (Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses)

Application Deadline:  Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Appointment Information:  Full-time, multi-year contract with the possibility of renewal.  Start date of August 2022.  Competitive salary and benefits packages commensurate with qualifications and experience.