Programme Director UFS Bloemfontein, Free State
The Programme Director for the Department of Physics will oversee curriculum management, programme development, and academic quality within the department. This leadership role requires close collaboration with the Academic Head of Department, ensuring that teaching, research, and operational activities align with the university’s governance frameworks and strategic goals. The position involves managing academic administration, promoting scholarly excellence, supporting students, and ensuring the programme remains responsive to professional and industry needs.
- Job Title: Programme Director (Contract Appointment: Five Years) – Department of Physics (Job ID: 6213)
- Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
- Employment Type: Fixed-Term Contract (Five Years)
- Closing Date: 14 August 2025, 23:59
- Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible.
Company Overview:
The University of the Free State is one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning, recognised for academic excellence, diversity, and its commitment to producing graduates who make a meaningful impact locally and globally. The UFS Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences is at the forefront of research and innovation, offering quality education and fostering a supportive academic environment that values integrity, collaboration, and transformation.
Key Responsibilities:
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Manage the curriculum processes and academic coherence of the programme.
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Develop new learning programmes in consultation with stakeholders.
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Maintain and execute the programme’s operational plan.
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Ensure compliance with university governance, policy, and regulatory frameworks.
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Oversee academic quality and manage teaching, learning, and student-related matters.
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Conduct personal research and support departmental scholarship.
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Provide academic advice and support, including amendments to yearbooks, schedules, and timetables.
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Participate in faculty marketing activities and materials development.
Inherent Requirements:
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PhD degree (NQF Level 10).
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Permanent, full-time academic staff member of the UFS Department of Physics.
Recommendations:
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Experience in programme development and academic advisory services.
Key Competencies:
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Results Oriented: Reliable, responsible, and able to remain calm under pressure.
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Strategic Thinking: Organised, detail-focused, and able to plan effectively.
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Business Acumen: Proficiency in MS Office, strong organisational and administrative skills, and sound management capabilities.
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Leading: Motivated, cooperative, and able to encourage teamwork.
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Building Coalitions: Empathetic, understanding, and able to build strong interpersonal relationships.
Remuneration:
A Programme Director allowance is payable, calculated according to a transparent formula approved by UFS decision-making structures (details available on request).
Application Requirements:
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Detailed Curriculum Vitae.
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Copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation if applicable).
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Copy of South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
Application Method: Only online applications via the official UFS vacancy portal: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Enquiries:
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General: 051 401 9813 | Email: PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
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Technical Assistance: 051 401 2979 / 9814
Employment Equity:
The UFS is a designated employer committed to diversity, equity, and redress in accordance with its Employment Equity Plan. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities.
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