Director of the School of Nursing

DIRECTOR OF THE SCHOOL OF NURSING

MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Middle Tennessee State University seeks an accomplished, visionary leader with a strong background in nursing practice, academic scholarship, and administrative experience who can advance the School of Nursing’s mission of preparing the next generation of nursing professionals through excellence in education, research, and service. The candidate must be committed to innovative teaching, robust research/creative activity, and meaningful service, while seeking to attract culturally and academically diverse faculty who value working with diverse students.

For additional information please see the full profile at the link below:

https://myersmcrae.com/api/admin/create-job/file/Files/PDF/MTSU-Dir-SchoolofNursing-2026-Final-1772645412164-236257087.pdf

Middle Tennessee State University offers exceptional academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels that prepare students to thrive in their chosen profession and prioritize student success. As one of Tennessee’s largest comprehensive universities, MTSU places high value on outstanding teaching, research, creative activity, and public service that support the emerging needs and challenges of our state, nation, and world.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

The No. 1 producer of college graduates for greater Nashville, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) has more than 300 graduate and undergraduate majors and concentrations to help students reach their career goals. ... [abridged university description]

THE OPPORTUNITY

Middle Tennessee State University seeks an accomplished, visionary leader with a strong background in nursing practice, academic scholarship, and administrative experience who can advance the School of Nursing’s mission of preparing the next generation of nursing professionals through excellence in education, research, and service. Reporting directly to the Dean of the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, the Director must have the academic credentials to qualify at the full professor rank. Expedited tenure upon appointment is possible. This is a 12-month position with a start date of August 1, 2026.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Clinical Partnerships: Build, strengthen, and expand the number of clinical affiliation agreements and clinical rotation sites to support high-quality student learning experiences.
• Program Innovation: Lead efforts in innovative program design and educational delivery methods to meet the evolving needs of students and the nursing profession.
• Curriculum and Accreditation: Oversee program development, curriculum quality, accreditation compliance, and continuous program evaluation.
• Faculty and Staff Development: Recruit, mentor, and support faculty and staff in teaching, practice, research, and service roles.
• Nursing Education Growth: Develop and expand nursing education opportunities, including new program initiatives, advanced degree pathways, and continuing education programs.
• Resource Management: Administer budgets, facilities, and resources to ensure effective and sustainable operations.
• Community Engagement: Build strong connections with health care systems, professional organizations, and community partners to advance nursing education and practice.
• Advocacy and Representation: Represent the School of Nursing within the college, university, and broader professional community.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education
A PhD or equivalent terminal degree in nursing, nursing education, or nursing science is required by the appointment date.

Related Experience

• Cumulative of three (3) years of full-time or part-time clinical practice as a registered nurse.
• Five (5) years of experience in nursing education.
• Three (3) years of administrative and leadership experience in higher education.

License/Registration/Certification
A current, active, and unencumbered Tennessee Registered Nurse license or the multistate licensure privilege to practice as a registered nurse in Tennessee is required.

Recommendations
Applicants with the following will receive special consideration:

• Record of achievement in teaching, scholarship, and service.
• Experience in curriculum development and revision.
• Experience with budget management, accreditation, faculty evaluation, and strategic planning.
• Evidence of collaborative leadership, strategic planning, and innovation in higher education.

APPLICATION & NOMINATION PROCESS

All application packets must include the following:

• A letter of application that includes the candidate’s (a) interest in and qualifications for the position, (b) leadership philosophy, and (c) vision and goal for nursing education.
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Unofficial transcripts of all degrees and certificates earned (Official transcript will be required of finalists.)
• At least four references with full contact information including e-mail (References will not be contacted without consent from applicant.)

Submit application materials (preferably as PDFs) online. For best consideration, complete applications should be received before April 10, 2026.

Middle Tennessee State University has retained Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting to assist the Search Committee in its identification and review of Director of the School of Nursing candidates. Jennifer Barfield, Executive Vice President of Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting, is the lead consultant for this search. Request a conversation regarding this search at JenniferBarfield@myersmcrae.com.