Department Chair, Physical Therapy – Sample Job Description
Excelon Associates is proud to partner with an accredited institution in identifying an accomplished leader to serve as Department Chair – Physical Therapy. Our firm specializes in recruiting academic and executive leaders across higher education who bring a balance of strategic vision, operational excellence, and student-centered leadership. This search represents an opportunity for a proven academic professional to elevate a growing Physical Therapy program to new levels of distinction.
The Department Chair for Physical Therapy provides strategic, academic, and operational leadership for the Physical Therapy program. This individual ensures the program’s alignment with institutional goals, accreditation standards, and evolving professional practice expectations. The Chair oversees curriculum development, faculty mentorship, student success, and community partnerships while fostering a culture of excellence in education, research, and clinical service.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all academic, administrative, and operational functions of the Physical Therapy department.
- Ensure compliance with CAPTE accreditation standards and institutional policies.
- Oversee faculty recruitment, development, and performance evaluation.
- Guide curriculum design, assessment, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
- Develop strategic partnerships with clinical sites and healthcare organizations.
- Manage departmental budgets and resource allocation to support program priorities.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, diversity, and professional integrity among faculty and students.
- Represent the department in institutional committees and external professional associations.
- Support faculty scholarship and student research within rehabilitation sciences.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or terminal academic degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., Sc.D.) in a related field required.
- Current or eligible physical therapy licensure within Texas.
- Minimum of 5 years of academic experience with progressive leadership responsibility.
- Demonstrated success in CAPTE accreditation processes and faculty mentorship.
- Proven ability to manage complex academic operations and lead interdisciplinary teams.
- Strong record of teaching, research, and professional service in physical therapy education.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience developing new degree programs or advancing program accreditation status.
- Established clinical partnerships and community engagement experience.
- Visionary leadership style with a student-centered and outcomes-driven mindset.
Why This Role Matters
Physical therapy programs play a vital role in preparing practitioners who restore movement, improve lives, and strengthen communities. The Department Chair ensures that academic rigor, clinical readiness, and compassionate care intersect within every aspect of the program. This position directly impacts how students transition from the classroom to the clinic, shaping future professionals who will define the standard of patient care.
If your institution is seeking to hire or expand leadership within Physical Therapy or other allied health programs, Excelon Associates can help. Our team has a proven track record recruiting academic leaders nationwide who build programs that last.
