Associate​/Full Professor-Doctorate of Social Work; DSW Program Director-Social Work-Fall

Overview

Associate/Full Professor
- Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) Program Director - Social Work - Fall 2026

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville College of Social Work invites applications for a full-time faculty position as Director of the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program for our accredited DSW program. We are seeking a proven leader with strong clinical practice experience, understanding of working MSW-level practitioners, and experience with online education. The Director will advance the College’s mission and vision and oversee day-to-day program operations for the online DSW program.

• Manage day-to-day programmatic activities for the online DSW program, including admissions, curriculum development and implementation, student advising, faculty teaching assignments, program assessment, and compliance with accreditation standards.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders.
• Promote the School’s connection with the practice community through active engagement with relevant professional associations at local and national levels.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of university practices and processes, sound judgment, teamwork, and vision/leadership for the DSW Program.

• A doctoral degree in Social Work or MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program (note: doctoral degree preferred for rank)
• At least five years of experience as a clinical social worker and/or social work manager
• Strong teaching experience at the university level, including graduate-level and online teaching
• Excellent written and verbal skills
• Evidence of scholarly or applied expertise in one or more content areas in the DSW curriculum
• Demonstrated leadership in the social work profession (e.g., leadership in social service or nonprofit agencies and/or in social work education)
• Commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming climate in classroom and research settings where all students can succeed

• Ph.D. or D.S.W. in Social Work
• Experience in doctoral education
• Experience in academic administration
• Commitment to interdisciplinary research and collaboration
• Experience with academic innovations such as course development, curricular modifications, innovative teaching methods, or novel course evaluations

Positions can be located on the Knoxville campus, the Nashville campus, or may work remotely. This is a 12-month position.

Interested individuals should provide: (1) a cover letter addressing research, teaching, and practice experience, as well as relevance to required and preferred qualifications, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) a writing sample (preferably a published article), and (4) contact information for three professional references. Priority consideration will be given to applications submitted by March 16, 2026, though review may continue until an appointment is made.

Materials should be submitted electronically. Inquiries may be addressed to the search committee chair, Dr. Bridget Freisthler.

All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment and admission without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, parental status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law. The university affirms that it does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, or disability in its education programs and activities, and this policy extends to employment.

Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator at Equal Opportunity and Accessibility.