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Director Of Online Learning

Director of Online Learning

Reports to: Chief Academic Officer
Department: Academics
Location: Fairhaven, Massachusetts

 

Position Overview

The Director of Online Learning is responsible for leading the design, development, and continuous improvement of online and hybrid academic programs that align with the College’s mission, regulatory standards, and institutional outcomes.

This position works collaboratively with the Chief Academic Officer, Program Directors, and Faculty to develop high-quality, student-centered online curriculum and instructional practices that reflect maritime industry standards, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, and best practices in distance education.

The Director oversees the integration of learning technologies, manages online course quality assurance processes, and ensures compliance with all accrediting and regulatory agencies.

 

Key Responsibilities

Academic Program Development

  • Partner with the Chief Academic Officer and Program Directors to plan, design, and implement online and hybrid course offerings across academic programs.
  • Oversee development of new online curricula ensuring alignment with USCG-approved, STCW-compliant, and accreditation standards (ACCSC).
  • Collaborate with faculty to translate traditional classroom courses into engaging, interactive online learning experiences.
  • Provide guidance on curriculum mapping, measurable learning outcomes, and assessment strategies for online delivery.

Faculty Collaboration and Support

  • Train and mentor faculty in effective online pedagogy, course design, and digital instructional tools.
  • Develop and maintain faculty resources and professional development programs focused on instructional technology and learner engagement.
  • Facilitate peer review and continuous improvement processes for online instruction.

Policy Development and Compliance

  • Draft and maintain institutional policies and procedures governing online education, including standards for accessibility, assessment, grading, attendance, and academic integrity.
  • Ensure compliance with state authorization, FERPA, ADA/Section 508, USCG, and accreditation requirements related to distance learning.
  • Serve as the institutional point of contact for online learning compliance audits and reporting.

Technology Integration and Learning Management System (LMS) Oversight

  • Administer and optimize the institution’s Learning Management System (e.g., NEMO° or Canvas) in collaboration with Multimedia and Academic Departments.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies to enhance teaching, assessment, and student engagement.
  • Ensure reliable LMS operations, course archiving, and data security in coordination with IT.

Quality Assurance and Assessment

  • Develop and implement a Quality Assurance Plan for all online courses, including course design rubrics, student evaluations, and learning outcome assessments.
  • Collect and analyze data on student performance, engagement, and satisfaction to inform program improvement.
  • Produce annual reports on online program performance, faculty development activities, and strategic progress.

Qualifications

Education

  • Master’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or a related field required.


 

 

Experience

  • Minimum of 2-5 years’ experience in online learning management or instructional design, preferably in higher education.
  • Experience working within regulated or technical education environments (e.g., maritime, aviation, healthcare, or engineering).
  • Demonstrated success in faculty collaboration, curriculum design, and accreditation compliance.

Skills and Competencies

  • Understanding of online pedagogy, curriculum mapping, and course design.
  • Familiarity with LMS platforms (Canvas, Moodle, NEMO°, etc.) and instructional technology tools.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.
  • Ability to interpret and apply accreditation and maritime education standards.
  • Knowledge of ADA, FERPA, Title IV, and state authorization requirements.

 

Work Environment

This is a full-time administrative position. The Director of Online Learning may be based on campus with opportunities for remote work as appropriate. Occasional travel to conferences, training sessions, or partner institutions may be required.