Academic Program Director Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Stanbridge University is seeking an experienced, mission-driven Program Director to lead the Vocational Nursing (VN) Program. This role serves as the senior academic and operational leader responsible for program performance, faculty effectiveness, and student outcomes. The Program Director provides strategic direction, ensures academic excellence, and maintains full compliance with all regulatory and accreditation standards.

This role is critical to shaping the next generation of licensed vocational nurses through innovative education, student-centered leadership, and dedicated faculty mentorship. Success in this role is measured by program quality, regulatory compliance, and key student outcome metrics, including retention, completion, and licensure pass rates.

• Oversee the planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of the Vocational Nursing program
• Ensure adherence to regulations established by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) and other accrediting agencies
• Recruit, supervise, mentor, and evaluate program faculty to ensure effective instruction and alignment with curriculum standards
• Lead curriculum design, updates, and assessment processes to maintain relevance and rigor aligned with industry standards and licensing requirements
• Monitor and drive student performance metrics (retention, completion, and licensure pass rates) and implement data-driven interventions to improve outcomes
• Ensure quality clinical placements in collaboration with clinical partners and the clinical coordination team
• Collaborate with university leadership on program budgeting, forecasting, and allocation of instructional resources
• Prepare and submit required reports and documentation for BVNPT and accrediting bodies; lead site visit readiness and compliance efforts
• Represent the program in professional communities, conferences, and with clinical partners to strengthen relationships and program visibility

• Current, active, and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of California
• Bachelor’s degree from a BVNPT-approved school required; Master’s degree in nursing, education, or administration preferred
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience as a Registered Nurse
• At least one (1) year within the last five (5) years in teaching or clinical supervision (or a combination thereof) in a state-approved vocational or registered nursing program; or
• A minimum of three (3) years in nursing administration or nursing education within the last five (5) years
• Completion of coursework in administration, teaching, and curriculum development from an approved school
• Demonstrated leadership ability with strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Proven commitment to student success, faculty development, and continuous program improvement
• Competitive compensation is offered and will be based on education, experience, and internal equity considerations

• A job-related assessment may be required during the interview process.
• Must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be physically present in the office (unless otherwise noted).
• Employment Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Stanbridge University does not provide employment-based immigration sponsorship or participate in employer-sponsored or employer-dependent work authorization programs.
• Sponsorship: Sponsorship now or in the future could include having Stanbridge University sponsor, complete employer documentation, provide attestations or training plans, or otherwise participate in a work-authorization or employment-based immigration program in order for an individual to begin or continue employment. Stanbridge University does not provide any such sponsorship.
• Employment verification will be conducted to validate work experience per accreditation standards.
• Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
• Official transcripts are required prior to hire. Degrees earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service to determine U.S. degree equivalency and applicable subject‑area coursework.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Standard office, classroom, lab, or clinical setting
• Duties are typically performed while sitting at a desk or computer workstation
• May include time spent in skills labs or bedside environments as required by the program
• Subject to frequent interruptions, noise, and demanding timelines

• Regularly sits for extended periods
• Physical ability to perform program- or department‑related duties
• Proficient in using electronic keyboards and office equipment
• Effective verbal communication via phone and in person
• Ability to read fine print, operate computers, and understand voices clearly
• Able to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing 10–25 pounds as needed

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Exciting university events
• Seasonal motivational health and wellness challenges
• Work/Life Balance initiatives
• Onsite wellness program / Staff Chiropractor
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

• Diversity and Inclusion: Stanbridge University’s motto, “Strength through Diversity,” reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment and honoring diverse backgrounds
• Innovation and Technology: We embrace advanced technology, including simulation and virtual learning, to enhance student outcomes
• Community Engagement: Through initiatives such as Stanbridge outREACH, students contribute to local and global communities

Stanbridge University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on any protected basis. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.