Jacksonville State University

Program Director, Speech Language Pathology

Assistant/Associate Professor

The Department of Kinesiology in Jacksonville State University's College of Health Professions and Wellness invites applications for the inaugural Program Director, Speech Language Pathology position. This is an exceptional opportunity to launch and lead a new graduate program from the ground up, shaping the future of speech-language pathology education in Alabama.

Position Overview

Jacksonville State University seeks a dynamic and visionary Speech-Language Pathologist to serve as Program Director for our new Speech-Language Pathology graduate program. This 12-month, tenure-track position offers the unique opportunity to be instrumental in establishing a program that will prepare the next generation of speech-language pathologists. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in developing curriculum, establishing clinical partnerships, and achieving accreditation through the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).

The Jacksonville State University College of Health Professions and Wellness was established to deliver top-quality education for 21st century professionals in an effort to promote health and wellness in our communities, state, nation, and around the world. The departments of nursing, respiratory therapy, and kinesiology have developed undergraduate and graduate programs utilizing the latest evidence-based practices. It is our goal to prepare future leaders in health and wellness professions. This is an unique opportunity to be a founding leader in speech-language pathology education. The successful candidate will leave a legacy by establishing a program that will serve students and the profession for generations to come.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Development and Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership in launching Jacksonville State University's inaugural Speech-Language Pathology undergraduate and graduate programs
• Develop, implement, and evaluate curriculum in accordance with CAA standards university policies
• Lead initial accreditation efforts through the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) for the MSLP program
• Establish clinical partnerships and practicum sites throughout the region
• Manage program budget, resources, and facilities planning from inception
• Coordinate with university administration on program policies, procedures, and strategic planning

Faculty and Academic Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate-level courses in speech-language pathology
• Recruit and mentor additional faculty members as the program grows
• Conduct scholarly research and maintain an active publication record
• Pursue external funding opportunities to support program development and initiatives
• Participate in professional service at university, state, and national levels

Student Services and Program Development

• Develop student recruitment, admission, and retention strategies for the new program
• Create comprehensive student handbook and program policies
• Establish academic progress monitoring and clinical competency assessment systems
• Develop relationships with employers and track program outcomes

Required Qualifications

Education and Licensure

• Doctoral degree in Speech-Language Pathology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, or closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from a CAA-accredited program
• Current state licensure in Speech-Language Pathology (Alabama licensure required within one year of appointment)
• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA

Experience

• Demonstrated experience in program administration, curriculum development, or academic leadership
• Experience with accreditation processes, preferably CAA standards and procedures

Professional Competencies

• Comprehensive knowledge of CAA accreditation standards and requirements
• Strong understanding of evidence-based practice in speech-language pathology
• Exceptional leadership and administrative skills with entrepreneurial mindset
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Proficiency in data analysis and program assessment methodologies
• Vision for innovative program development and growth

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience as a program director or department chair in communication sciences and disorders
• Direct experience with CAA accreditation site visits and self-study processes
• Established record of scholarly research with peer-reviewed publications in speech-language pathology
• Experience with program launch or significant program restructuring
• Knowledge of distance education and hybrid learning modalities
• Strong professional network within ASHA and other relevant professional organizations
• Experience with clinical partnership development and management

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials to be considered for the position:

• Cover letter addressing qualifications and vision for program development
• Current curriculum vitae
• Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon hire)
• Contact information for three professional references

Position Details

• Start Date: July 1, 2026
• Appointment: 12-month, tenure-track position
• Rank: Tenure Track, Assistant/Associate Professor level, commensurate with experience

About Jacksonville, Alabama

Jacksonville offers an exceptional quality of life in the heart of Alabama's scenic Appalachian foothills. Located strategically between Birmingham and Atlanta, residents enjoy easy access to major metropolitan areas while embracing the charm of a vibrant college town. The area boasts beautiful natural landscapes with numerous parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities at nearby Cheaha State Park and Talladega National Forest. Jacksonville features a thriving downtown district with local restaurants, shops, and cultural venues, complemented by excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods. The cost of living is remarkably affordable compared to major metropolitan areas, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle with access to quality healthcare, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community. The region's rich history, combined with Jacksonville State University's cultural and athletic events, creates a dynamic environment that attracts professionals seeking both career growth and an outstanding work-life balance.

About Jacksonville State University

Located in the Appalachian foothills of northeast Alabama, Jax State is home to over 10,000 students representing 63 countries. As a learning-centered university, it strives to challenge students academically in a responsive environment, meeting their educational, career and personal goals. Academically, Jax State offers 113 academic programs and concentrations, including bachelor's, master's, post-baccalaureate, doctoral and advanced certificate programs. More than 40 online programs are offered across six colleges on its 459-acre campus. For more details about Jacksonville, AL, please click on this link.

Clery Notice: In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, https://www.clerycenter.org/the-clery-act the Jacksonville State University Police provide information on crimes statistics, crime prevention, law enforcement, crime reporting, and other related issues for the past three calendar years. The JSU Annual Campus Security and Fire Report is available at: https://www.jsu.edu/police/docs/cleryannualreport.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity: Jax State is an Equal Employment and Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.