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Nursing Program Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Program Director (Hospice)

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in nursing, health care, or business administration preferred. * Minimum of two (2) years' experience in health care management, home health, hospice, or related health programs ...

Program Director (Hospice)

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in nursing, health care, or business administration preferred. * Minimum of two (2) years' experience in health care management, home health, hospice, or related health programs ...

Registered Nurse Instructor - Full Time (Monday through Friday) Essential Functions: * Providing ... Perform other duties as required by the program director, program dean, or campus administration ...

Nursing Educator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$80K/yr

Registered Nurse Instructor - Full Time (Monday through Friday) Essential Functions: * Providing ... Perform other duties as required by the program director, program dean, or campus administration ...

Jersey College has positions available in our Nursing Program and is looking for Registered Nurses ... Motivated, self-directed * Team player * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Ability ...

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Nursing Program Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$33.6K

$84.8K

$145.7K

How much do nursing program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for nursing program director in Tennessee is $84,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nursing program director do?

A nursing program director oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education programs. They manage faculty, ensure curriculum compliance with accreditation standards, and coordinate clinical training to prepare students for nursing careers.

Can an LPN be adon?

An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) cannot typically become an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) directly, as ADONs are usually registered nurses (RNs) with a higher level of education and experience. LPNs may pursue RN licensure through additional education to qualify for ADON roles, which require leadership skills and often involve overseeing nursing staff and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

What are Nursing Program Directors?

Nursing Program Directors are senior administrators responsible for overseeing and managing nursing education programs at colleges, universities, or healthcare institutions. They develop curriculum, ensure compliance with accreditation standards, supervise faculty, and support student success. Nursing Program Directors also handle budgeting, staffing, and often represent their programs to external stakeholders. Their leadership is crucial to maintaining high educational standards and preparing students for nursing careers.

What are some common challenges faced by a Nursing Program Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Nursing Program Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative responsibilities with the need to stay engaged in curriculum development and student support. Managing faculty workloads, ensuring accreditation standards are met, and keeping up with evolving healthcare practices can also be demanding. Effective management involves strong organizational skills, clear communication with faculty and administration, and ongoing professional development to stay current with industry trends. Building collaborative relationships within the institution and fostering a supportive team environment are key strategies to successfully navigate these challenges.

What is the highest paid position in nursing?

The highest paid position in nursing is typically a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), who administers anesthesia and requires a master's degree and certification. They often work independently in surgical settings and earn significantly higher salaries than other nursing roles, reflecting advanced skills and responsibilities.

Can a DNP become a professor?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can qualify for faculty positions at nursing schools, especially when combined with teaching experience and a strong clinical background. However, many academic institutions prefer candidates with a PhD in Nursing or related research experience for professorship roles. The DNP is primarily a practice-focused degree, so additional research credentials may enhance eligibility for university-level teaching positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nursing Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nursing Program Director, you need advanced clinical knowledge, leadership experience, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in nursing or nursing education. Familiarity with accreditation standards, curriculum development software, and learning management systems is essential. Strong organizational, communication, and mentoring skills help foster faculty development and student success. These skills are vital for ensuring the quality and compliance of nursing programs and for guiding both faculty and students toward excellence.

What is the difference between Nursing Program Director vs Nursing Educator?

AspectNursing Program DirectorNursing Educator
CredentialsRN license, advanced degrees (e.g., MSN, DNP)RN license, often MSN or higher
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, overseeing nursing programsHospitals, colleges, or training settings, teaching students
Primary FocusProgram administration, curriculum oversight, accreditationTeaching, student assessment, clinical instruction
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, nursing schoolsHospitals, colleges, vocational schools

The Nursing Program Director primarily manages nursing education programs, focusing on administration and accreditation, while the Nursing Educator concentrates on teaching and mentoring students. Both roles require nursing credentials and are vital in nursing education but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Nursing Program Director jobs in Tennessee? For Nursing Program Director jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nursing Program Director jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Nursing Program Director jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Nursing Program Director jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Nursing Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Nursing Program Director job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,827 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Position Title: Program Director, LPN

Description:

At Chattanooga College MDTC, the Program Director, LPN will help implement our strategy of “Where a small school can make a BIG difference!!” The Program Director, LPN will provide leadership and program oversight to faculty and students to support program excellence, clinical competency, and student success. This includes responsibilities such as faculty orientation, curriculum implementation, screening and hiring support positions, and serving as a liaison between administration and the nursing program. Ideal candidates must be able to work independently as a primary decision-maker and possess excellent interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and listening skills. Candidates must be able to adapt to a fast-paced work environment and manage multiple priorities and changing assignments. This is an instructional/professional position supporting the Health Science Department. This role requires considerable interaction with students, faculty, and administration through individual meetings, group sessions, monthly PD Team and faculty meetings, and institutional events. The Program Director, LPN is expected to possess extensive knowledge of practical nursing education, clinical standards, support curriculum applications (e.g., ATI, HESI), and accreditation policies. They must be able to interpret individual needs, provide personalized support, and work effectively with individuals who may be confused, stressed, or demanding. Employees in this role can expect to support individuals regarding academic plans, progress, and clinical goals, assist with decision-making related to institutional processes, and help guide individuals toward successful outcomes—including active contributions to NCLEX tracking and interventions to maintain pass rate benchmarks. This position requires maintaining confidentiality and accurate records to ensure compliance with accreditation standards, institutional policies, and federal regulations (e.g., FERPA, as applicable). The role may also support institutional events such as Orientation and Graduation. A strong commitment to equity, access, and success for underrepresented or at-risk populations is essential.

Responsibilities:

Schedules, coordinates, develops, and implements faculty orientation and mentoring.

Facilitates overall program communication, serving as the primary liaison between administration, faculty, and students.

Collaborates and participates actively in monthly Program Director (PD) Team meetings and all-faculty meetings.

Screens and hires all support positions in a timely and effective face-to-face (FTF) conversion process.

Demonstrates ability to work independently as an effective decision-maker for the program.

Demonstrates evidence of contribution to NCLEX tracking, intervention, and collaboration to achieve and maintain state and national benchmarks for first-time pass rates.

Assists in the coordination of clinical placements and activities.

Implements institutional or departmental strategic priorities related to nursing program completion and compliance.

Counsels, advises, or supports faculty and students through individual and group sessions to address concerns and provide guidance.

Educates individuals on institutional resources, policies, nursing procedures, and expectations.

Implements solutions, including technology such as Learning Management Systems and support curriculum applications (e.g., ATI, HESI), to promote efficiency, access, and success.

Completes required professional development and training annually.

Maintains accurate documentation and records in compliance with institutional, state board, and federal requirements.

Collaborates with departments and colleagues to increase engagement, retention, and success, especially for at-risk populations.

Upholds confidentiality and complies with institutional policies and accreditation standards.

Collaborates with the Dean of Nursing and Health Science. Please note: This job description is not exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Skills:

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Excellent interpersonal and time management skills

Ability to work independently as a primary decision-maker

Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and clinical partners

Knowledge of nursing support curriculum applications (such as ATI, HESI) to drive student success

Knowledge of the role’s function in supporting nursing education, access, and success

Ability to use technology to support services, including Microsoft Office, student information systems, and Learning Management Systems for remote/blended curriculum delivery

Education & Experience Education or Training:

Master’s degree in nursing from a regionally accredited School of Nursing required; Doctorate degree preferred.

Minimum of one year of experience as a program lead in nursing academics required.

Previous program management experience preferred.

Current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license in the state of Tennessee required, multi-state license preferred.

Experience:

A minimum of three years of teaching experience required.

Demonstrated experience and evidence of contribution in NCLEX tracking, targeted intervention, and collaboration to achieve and maintain state and national benchmarks for first-time pass rates required.

Experience with nursing support curriculum applications (e.g., ATI, HESI) required.

Two years of management experience preferred.

A minimum of four years’ experience in a nursing specialty setting preferred.

Experience with computer technology and Learning Management Systems (LMS) required.

Other Requirements:

Please submit a 2–5 minute video response summarizing your qualifications, interest in the position and reason you feel you would be the right fit to careers@chattanoogacollege.edu. Applications that do not include the required materials will not be reviewed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Chattanooga College MDTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.