Dr. Scott Amundsen, Director of Professional Studies and Associate Professor

Director of Professional Studies and Associate Professor

Dr. Scott Amundsen is an accomplished educator and academic leader with a rich background in adult education, higher education administration, curriculum development, and student advocacy. With a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership from UNC Greensboro, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to adult learners and innovative program development.

Currently serving as the Director of Professional Studies and Associate Professor at Winthrop University since 2019, Amundsen oversees all aspects of the Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) program, specializing in degree completion for adult learners. His responsibilities include curriculum development, teaching, advising and recruitment.

Credentials

  • Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  • M.Ed. in Community and Occupational Programs in Education, University of South Carolina
  • B.A. in Government, Campbell University

Experience

Before joining the Winthrop faculty, Amundsen held significant leadership positions, including provost/chief academic officer at the American University of Health Sciences and vice provost for academic services & founding dean of university college & extended studies at Trident University International. At these institutions, he spearheaded accreditation processes, developed new academic programs, supported faculty development and led initiatives that significantly enhanced student success and retention.

Publications

Beyond his administrative experiences, Amundsen is a prolific scholar with numerous publications and presentations on appreciative advising, student retention and strength-based curriculum design. Recent publications and presentations demonstrate Amundsen's strong commitment to underserved and minority student populations.

Awards

His contributions to the field have been recognized through awards and accolades, including the Retention Excellence Award from Noel-Levitz (now Ruffalo Noel Levitz) and the Outstanding Program Award from the National Academic Advising Association.