Perceived Barriers and Challenges of Leadership Positions in Schools and Colleges of Health Professions in Higher Education: A Survey of Faculty at ASAHP Institutions.

AIMS

Faculty recruitment into leadership positions is increasingly more difficult. The purpose of this research study was to explore the perceived barriers and challenges to leadership positions in schools of allied health professions from a faculty perspective.

METHODS

This study utilized an exploratory, survey design with convenience sampling. The survey was electronically disseminated to academic representatives within the 115 ASAHP member institutions. Survey questions included basic demographic and faculty information and addressed perceptions of barriers and challenges related to leadership positions.

RESULTS

Responses were collected from 310 individuals, of whom 268 who completed the entire survey. Of these, 125 identified themselves as "full-time faculty within the institution and no prior administrative/leadership experience." Respondents were primarily female, white, non-Hispanic, with 10 or fewer years of faculty experience. The top five perceived barriers included: time demands, concerns about increased workload, lack of experience, family obligations, and lack of mentoring. The top five perceived challenges included: time management/workload demands, budgeting, faculty personnel issues, resource constraints, and fundraising.

CONCLUSION

Institutions should consider position announcements that reflect behaviors and characteristics versus rank and faculty line, provide education on daily responsibilities, and implement intentional mentoring and professional development in the area of leadership positions.