Asst. Professor Social Work/Director MSW Prog/Online MSW Coord

Kentucky State University; Frankfort (KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Kentucky State University seeks an Assistant Professor of Social Work (tenure-track) who will also serve as Director of the MSW Program and MSW Online Coordinator. The role blends teaching, program leadership, and accreditation responsibilities to advance student success and community engagement.

The typical duties include overseeing CSWE accreditation, coordinating online delivery, mentoring graduate students, and partnering with field agencies to enhance placements and outcomes.

Qualifications

• MSW from CSWE-accredited program required.
• PhD/DSW preferred but not required.
• Minimum five years of post-MS W professional experience.
• Experience teaching in higher education and/or program administration.
• Knowledge of CSWE accreditation and assessment processes.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight for the MSW Program.
• Lead accreditation activities and program assessment.
• Oversee the MSW Online Program delivery and quality.
• Teach graduate MSW courses and advise students.
• Engage in scholarly activity in social work education.

Skills

Leadership

Teaching

CSWE accreditation knowledge

Canvas

Microsoft Office

Communication

Diversity & inclusion

Education

MSW (CSWE-accredited)

DSW/PhD in Social Work (preferred)

Tools

Canvas

Microsoft Office

Job description

Title

Assistant Professor of Social Work (tenure-track), Director of the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program and MSW Online Coordinator.

Job Summary

The Assistant Professor of Social Work (tenure-track), with the designation of Director of the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program and MSW Online Coordinator, provides academic leadership and instructional excellence within the School of Social Work. The faculty member will teach in the MSW program, oversee accreditation and assessment processes, coordinate online program delivery, and foster community partnerships to support student success and program growth. This is a 12‑month appointment with course release time commensurate with administrative responsibilities. The Director typically teaches two graduate‑level courses per semester while overseeing accreditation, curriculum, online program delivery, and student success initiatives. This position supports Kentucky State University’s mission of providing high‑quality education grounded in social justice, diversity, and community engagement.

Essential Job Functions

Program Leadership and Administration

Provide day‑to‑day leadership and administrative oversight for the MSW Program, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and CSWE accreditation standards.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for students, faculty, and external partners regarding MSW Program activities and initiatives.
• Support full‑time and adjunct faculty in curriculum delivery, advising, and program assessment (without direct hiring authority).
• Represent the MSW Program at internal and external meetings, including Graduate Studies Council, accreditation bodies, and community partnership events.
• Lead accreditation and assessment activities, including self‑studies, annual reports, and continuous improvement plans.
• Collaborate with the Director of Field Education to integrate classroom and field learning experiences.

MSW Online Program Coordination

Oversee the administration, quality assurance, and delivery of the MSW Online Program.

• Ensure all online courses align with CSWE competencies and university learning outcomes.
• Provide instructional support and guidance to faculty teaching in online and hybrid formats.
• Monitor online student engagement, progression, and retention, and implement improvement strategies as needed.
• Coordinate with instructional design and IT staff to ensure course accessibility and effectiveness.

Teaching and Advising

Teach graduate‑level MSW courses each academic year, integrating evidence‑based practices, social justice principles, and professional ethics.

• Advise and mentor MSW students to promote academic achievement, licensure preparation, and professional development.
• Maintain office hours at times convenient for students.
• Engage in professional development to enhance teaching practices and support innovative curriculum delivery.

Research and Scholarship

Conduct and publish scholarly research in social work education, practice, or applied areas such as mental health, child welfare, gerontology, trauma‑informed practice, or community engagement.

• Seek external funding opportunities to support research, program initiatives, or student development.

Service and Engagement

Participate in departmental, college, and university committees and contribute to accreditation, recruitment, and retention activities.

• Foster partnerships with community agencies to expand field placements, student experiences, and outreach opportunities.
• Represent the program in professional and civic organizations that promote social work education and advocacy.
• Balance administrative responsibilities with teaching, research, and service obligations as outlined in the tenure‑track faculty contract.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse faculty, staff, students, and community stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of CSWE accreditation standards, program assessment, and academic compliance.
• Proficiency in online learning platforms (e.g., Canvas) and standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in social work education.
• Ability to maintain accurate program records and prepare reports required for accreditation and institutional review.

Qualifications

Required

• Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE‑accredited program.
• Doctoral degree in Social Work (DSW or Ph.D.) strongly preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of post‑MSW professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience in higher education teaching and/or program administration.
• Knowledge of CSWE accreditation and assessment processes.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.

Preferred

• Experience leading CSWE accreditation or reaffirmation processes.
• Experience teaching or administering online or hybrid programs.
• Record of scholarship, professional service, or community engagement.
• Experience developing partnerships with community agencies and professional organizations.

Licensing and Certifications

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) preferred.

Working Conditions

• Work performed primarily in an office and classroom environment on campus, with frequent computer use.
• Some administrative and instructional tasks may be completed remotely as part of online program coordination.
• Occasional travel may be required for meetings, conferences, and recruitment events.
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, and computer work may be required.
• May occasionally work evenings or weekends to meet program and accreditation deadlines.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Legal Statements

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa. Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.