Dean, College of Nursing

Montana State University (MSU), a premier and top tier research university, seeks an innovative and visionary individual committed to promoting and fostering excellence in teaching, research, professional practice, and service as the next Dean of the College of Nursing. The new Dean will have an extraordinary opportunity to elevate the College as a premier provider of nursing education and nursing scholarship.

Established in 1893, Montana State University is the state's largest university and its biggest research entity. The R1 institution offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees across multiple academic colleges. MSU is widely recognized for unique offerings like its science and natural history filmmaking program, architecture, and traditional land-grant strengths in agriculture and nursing. The MSU College of Nursing is a multi-site program with campuses in Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Kalispell, and Missoula.

Reporting to the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, the Dean oversees a statewide system of programs that provides opportunities and guidance for students to develop their scholarly potential and master the knowledge and skills necessary to provide competent nursing care and influence positive change in complex health care systems. It is expected that this individual will possess a combination of professional experience and personal qualities appropriate to the strategic priorities of the College.

They will also demonstrate integrity of the highest order, intellectual curiosity, and self-confidence balanced with humility, authenticity of character, and a strong work ethic.

The ideal candidate will bring an appreciation of, and commitment to, MSU's mission with an ability to embed this mission into the life and priorities of the College. In addition, the next Dean will be student focused; have excellent interpersonal, communication, administrative, and organizational skills; and have the ability to articulate a vision that encourages and inspires quality program growth.

Minimum requirements include an earned doctorate from an accredited institution with at least one graduate degree in nursing, a distinguished record of research/scholarship, prior academic administrative experience, demonstrated capacity to develop external funds, and credentials that merit appointment at the rank of tenured associate or full professor in nursing.

For fullest consideration, all applications materials should be received by December 31, 2026.

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.

In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.