Search for Dean of Physician Assistant Studies

Pepperdine University seeks an experienced and visionary leader to serve as the inaugural Dean of its School of Physician Assistant Studies (SPAS) and invites nominations, expressions of interest, and applications.

Pepperdine plans for the SPAS to begin operations in August 2027 within its College of Health Science (CHS). Aligned with the mission and vision of Pepperdine University and the CHS, the SPAS will commit its programs to the highest standards of academic excellence, clinical preparation, and Christian values in order to develop skilled and caring physician assistants who are prepared to lead while serving our communities and the world. Pending required approvals, the CHS will launch schools of nursing and speech language pathology in fall 2025. Future plans include healthcare programs in both physical and occupational therapy, as well as additional allied health programs. All CHS programs, including the SPAS, will benefit from partnerships being developed with healthcare organizations in close proximity to Pepperdine’s Calabasas campus.

Working alongside University and college leaders, the dean of the SPAS will provide wisdom-based leadership and strategic direction for the school while innovatively developing, launching, and evolving the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) degree program. The MSPAS program will be licensed by the Physician Assistant Board of California, fully accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), and approved by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) before beginning operation.

Interested individuals are encouraged to review the complete position profile for more information.

The executive search firm CarterBaldwin is supporting Pepperdine University in the search for the Dean of the School of Physician Assistant Studies. All nominations, expressions of interest, and applications should be submitted to PepperdineDeanPAS@carterbaldwin.com and will be treated with complete confidentiality. To apply, candidates should submit a curriculum vitae and letter of interest addressed to the Dean Search Committee at the aforementioned email address. 

Confidential inquiries and questions concerning the search may be directed to: