Temporary Program Developer

Brandeis University’s Rabb School of Continuing and Professional Studies is seeking a part-time Program Developer to lead the design and proposal development for a new Online Master of Science in Data Science. This graduate program will equip learners with advanced analytical, computational, and strategic skills to solve real-world problems across industries.

The ideal candidate will bring expertise in data science, curriculum design, market analysis, and online program development. This role is central to building a rigorous, market-aligned program that reflects Brandeis University's academic standards and commitment to innovation in graduate education.

The hourly rate for this position is $55.00.

Key Responsibilities:

Market Research and Needs Assessment

• Conduct a comprehensive market analysis to assess demand for graduate-level data science education.

• Identify emerging roles in AI, machine learning, data engineering, and analytics across sectors such as healthcare, finance, government, and tech.

• Benchmark peer and competitor programs to identify gaps, differentiators, and opportunities for innovation.

• Translate findings into strategic recommendations for curriculum design and program positioning.

Curriculum Design and Development

• Collaborate with faculty, instructional designers, and industry experts to develop a modular, outcomes-driven curriculum.

• Integrate core topics such as statistical modeling, machine learning, data visualization, cloud computing, and ethical AI.

• Ensure alignment with accreditation standards and incorporate experiential learning and capstone components.

• Map course objectives to workforce competencies and employer expectations.

Program Proposal Development

• Lead the drafting and submission of a formal program proposal, including all documentation required for Brandeis University’s internal review and approval.

• Develop a clear implementation roadmap, with milestones for curriculum development, faculty onboarding, and program launch.

• Coordinate with academic and administrative stakeholders to ensure alignment with institutional goals and quality standards.

• Include a modular academic structure in the proposal that comprises:

  • One master’s degree program designed to address high-demand workforce competencies

  • Two master’s certificates that draw from the degree curriculum and offer targeted, stackable credentials aligned with employer needs

  • Three micro-credentials focused on discrete, skill-based outcomes that reflect both the scope of the degree and specific workforce priorities

Budget Development

• Prepare a comprehensive budget that supports program development, including instructional design, technology integration, marketing, and faculty recruitment.

• Identify potential funding sources, industry partnerships, or grant opportunities to support long-term program sustainability.

Advisory Council Formation

• Establish an advisory council of data science leaders, statisticians, and industry experts to guide program relevance and innovation.

• Leverage the council’s insights to ensure the curriculum reflects current tools, methodologies, and employer expectations.

• Engage the council in shaping capstone experiences, mentorship opportunities, and external collaborations.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.

• Experience in higher education program development, curriculum design, or instructional design—preferably in an online format.

• Deep understanding of data science industry trends, workforce demands, and applied analytics across sectors.

• Proven ability to conduct market research and translate findings into actionable program strategies.

• Strong communication, project management, and organizational skills.

• Experience managing budgets and working with advisory councils is a plus.

Employment Details:

This is a part-time term position with flexible hours. The anticipated duration of this appointment is approximately one to one and a half months, commencing on the start date and concluding with the submission of the program proposal. Subject to the program’s development and institutional needs, continued engagement may be considered through a final potential end date of March 15, 2026.

Compensation will be hourly-based, and aligned with the scope of work required to meet the program development benchmarks by the expected deadlines:

• Market Research and Needs Assessment

• Curriculum Design and Development

• Program Proposal Submission

• Budget Planning

• Advisory Council Formation

Pay Range Disclosure

The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").