Job Description

Graceland University is a private, non-profit institution of approximately 1,450 undergraduate and graduate students. Founded in 1895 with the support of the Community of Christ, it is recognized by the Princeton Review as "Best in the Midwest" since 2012. Graceland University is seeking an innovative candidate for a full-time (12-month) Core faculty appointment with clinical rank commensurate with experience for its developing Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in Independence, Missouri. The content area focus is neuromuscular patient management and other areas may include foundational courses such as PT fundamentals, human physiology, therapeutic interventions, and prosthetics. Consideration may be given to those interested in leading the admissions process.

Under the general direction of the DPT Program Director, core faculty cultivate professional growth in the administration of a physical therapy entry-level education program and as a teacher and scholar while performing service to the department, college, university, and community. They engage in scholarship activities and are required to maintain competence in the academic field by remaining current in their own and related disciplines and in the most effective hybrid instructional methods. They demonstrate effectiveness in the synthesis, interpretation, and communication of new knowledge. In addition to instructional and scholarly activity, all faculty participate in activities consistent with the policies of Graceland University. This is a full-time, 12-month faculty position with instructional terms in spring, summer, and fall. Regular travel to the state of Kansas is required.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Earned Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (or tDPT) from an accredited university WITH ABPTS board certification or advanced professional certification
• Understanding of higher education and contemporary clinical practice appropriate for teaching in physical therapy education
• Knowledge of legislative, regulatory, legal, and practice issues affecting students and the profession of physical therapy
• Licensed or eligible for licensure in Kansas
• Strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and ability to interact effectively with diverse cultural and ethnic groups
• Active in professional activities at local, state, and/or national levels

Desired Qualifications:

• Terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DSc) in physical therapy or related field
• Academic experience in a DPT entry-level educational program specific to the content area identified above
• Experience in a hybrid educational model
• Demonstrated evidence of teaching effectiveness and desire to implement new and current technologies in both distance and onsite educational environments
• Demonstrated innovation, organization, problem solving, leadership, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills in areas related to professional practice

Other Qualifications:

• Upon hire, candidate must have reliable transportation to facilitate travel to Graceland University worksites and other locations as required by the position. This includes access to an airport with regular flights to Kansas City, MO, a valid driver's license, and a personal or rental vehicle that is legally registered and insured
• Able to teach classes as scheduled
• Successful candidate will be able to work in an environment that utilizes excellent time and stress management skills

Review of candidates will begin immediately. Deadline for applications is September 28, 2026. Start date can be as early as January, 2027. Please include the following:

1. Cover letter with brief explanation of how you meet the minimum and/or desired qualifications
2. CV
3. Educational philosophy

Please address questions to:

Leigh Murray, PT, PhD

Search Committee Chair

1401 W. Truman Rd.

Independence, MO 64050

816.423.4681

Lmurray1@graceland.edu

Graceland University welcomes your application and interest in the open positions listed on this website. Updates are made regularly, so please check back often. Benefits overview is available here. Graceland offers a generous paid time off policy, which includes vacation, sick leave and holiday pay.

Graceland is a nonsectarian institution sponsored by Community of Christ, which provides a rich Christian heritage. Graceland has two main campuses: one located in Lamoni, Iowa, and one located in Independence, Missouri.

Founded in 1895 and sponsored by Community of Christ, Graceland University is much more than a school. Graceland is a community of passionate, caring and dedicated individuals who make up a worldwide community network that reaches far beyond the two campuses.

All applications/resumes are kept on file for one year. If you see future positions that interest you, please let us know so we may submit your application materials. Reference letters will not be accessible to applicants during the application process nor after becoming an employee.

Graceland is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Graceland welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. We’re looking for candidates who share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Graceland University consists of two campuses: the Lamoni campus is a residential liberal arts institution situated in south central Iowa, approximately 70 miles south of Des Moines, IA and the Independence, Missouri campus which focuses on degree completion, adult and graduate programs.