Director of the Master of Public Health (MPH) Program (Associate Professor)

Director of the Master of Public Health (MPH) Program

The University of Tennessee at Martin invites applications for the position of Director of the Master of Public Health (MPH) Program. This is a 12-month, full-time faculty position at the Associate Professor or Professor level. The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership in developing, launching, and directing UT Martin's new online MPH program, establishing it as a premier educational experience focused on addressing public health challenges, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This position offers a unique opportunity to build a program from the ground up, shape its academic direction, and make a lasting impact on public health education and practice in Tennessee and beyond.

Responsibilities

Program Development and Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the establishment and ongoing development of the MPH program
• Design and implement a high-quality, competency-based curriculum aligned with Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accreditation standards
• Develop program specializations, with emphasis on rural public health and other relevant focus areas
• Oversee all aspects of program delivery, ensuring excellence in online education and student learning outcomes
• Establish and maintain program policies, procedures, and assessment protocols

Accreditation and Compliance

• Lead the CEPH accreditation process, including application preparation, self-study documentation, and site visit coordination
• Ensure ongoing compliance with CEPH standards and maintain accreditation status
• Develop and implement continuous quality improvement processes based on accreditation requirements
• Integrate Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam preparation into curriculum to maximize student success

Faculty Recruitment and Development

• Lead recruitment efforts to build a diverse, qualified faculty team with expertise across public health competencies
• Mentor and support faculty professional development in online pedagogy and public health practice
• Coordinate with adjunct faculty and practitioners to enhance program delivery and real-world connections
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across UT Martin departments and with external partners

Student Success and Support

• Oversee student recruitment, admissions, advising, and retention strategies
• Develop and coordinate practicum and applied learning experiences with community health organizations
• Monitor student progress, academic performance, and competency achievement
• Support career development and professional networking opportunities for students and alumni

Partnerships and Community Engagement

• Establish and maintain partnerships with local, state, and regional health departments and organizations
• Develop collaborative relationships with healthcare systems, non-profit organizations, and community agencies
• Engage with rural health initiatives and address health disparities in underserved populations
• Represent the program at professional conferences and public health forums

Program Administration and Resources

• Develop and manage program budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability
• Oversee marketing and recruitment strategies to attract qualified students
• Identify and pursue external funding opportunities, including grants and scholarships
• Ensure appropriate technology infrastructure and learning management systems support program delivery
• Maintain program data systems for assessment, reporting, and continuous improvement

Teaching and Scholarship

• Teach online graduate courses in area(s) of expertise within the MPH curriculum
• Maintain an active scholarly agenda appropriate to rank, including research, publications, and presentations
• Engage in service to the university, profession, and community

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Doctoral degree (DrPH, PhD, MD, or equivalent) in public health or closely related field from an accredited institution
• MPH degree or equivalent graduate training in public health
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in public health practice, education, or research
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more CEPH foundational public health competency areas
• Evidence of administrative or leadership experience in academic program development or management
• Record of teaching excellence at the graduate level
• Strong understanding of CEPH accreditation standards and processes
• Experience with online or distance education delivery
• Scholarly record commensurate with appointment at Associate Professor or Professor level
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and practice

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential
• Direct experience leading or participating in CEPH accreditation processes
• Experience developing or directing graduate public health programs
• Expertise in rural health, health disparities, or community health
• Demonstrated success in curriculum development and assessment
• Grant writing and external funding acquisition experience
• Experience with community-based participatory research or practice
• Professional network within public health organizations and agencies
• Knowledge of learning management systems and online instructional design
• Record of successful collaboration across disciplines and institutions

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. UT Martin offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities. This 12-month position provides administrative support and resources necessary to successfully launch and lead the MPH program.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS To apply, please submit the following materials:

• Cover letter addressing qualifications and vision for the MPH program
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of teaching philosophy and experience with online education
• Statement of research interests and scholarly agenda
• Contact information for three professional references
• Copies of relevant transcripts (official transcripts required upon hire)

Review of applications will begin on June 1 and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to Rick West, Department Chair, rwest37@utm.edu, 731-881-7311