ROLE STRAIN AND ROLE SATISFACTION OF ACADEMIC PROGRAM COORDINATORS AT A SOUTHERN RESEARCH-INTENSIVE DOCTORAL GRANTING UNIVERSITY

Abstract

The research dissertation examined, through a self-administered survey, the activities academic program coordinators perform at a US research-intensive university and whether they suffered from role strain during the 2020-2021 academic year. The dissertation also explored what academic program coordinators found satisfying in performing their roles. The research contributes to the field of higher education by providing a better understanding of the roles and activities academic program coordinators perform, along with factors that cause role strain among program coordinators. A total of 47 program coordinators responded to the survey representing a 20% response rate. The research found that program coordinators perform both program-level administrative and service activities. The most important activities program coordinators performed during the 2020-2021 academic year were: ensuring the effective functioning of the program and mentoring students. Program coordinators experience role strain caused by role overload, COVID-19, and the limited rewards for program coordination work. Finally, program coordinators find satisfaction by seeing students complete their studies and grow academically. Intrinsic factors such as growing professionally and developing new knowledge and skills satisfied program coordinators in performing their roles. Limitations of the study are presented as are recommendations for institutions and individuals. Implications for future research are also discussed.