MEPN Program Director​/Assistant Professor

Position Summary

The School of Nursing (SON) invites applications for the position of Master’s Entry Prelicensure Nursing (MEPN) Program Director/Assistant Professor. This is a 12-month tenure track position. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected for hire. The anticipated start date is January 2026, and the position is located on-site in Cullowhee, NC.

• Lead curriculum design, implementation, and evaluation in alignment with AACN Essentials and NC Board of Nursing regulations.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to ensure the delivery of student-centered, inclusive instruction that prepares graduates for RN licensure and advanced generalist practice.
• Coordinate accreditation, regulatory reporting, and data collection efforts for internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee student recruitment, progression, retention, and graduation initiatives in collaboration with the Director of Student Services and Admissions.
• Provide mentorship and support to MEPN faculty, ensuring academic excellence and professional development.
• Engage with clinical partners to secure and sustain high-quality clinical placements.
• Teach in the MEPN program and maintain an active portfolio of scholarship and/or service aligned with institutional expectations.
• Participate in School of Nursing and university-level committees and strategic planning.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Nursing required (MSN, DNP, or PhD); doctoral degree preferred for tenure-track lines.
• Unencumbered RN license in North Carolina or eligibility to obtain.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in nursing education, including leadership or coordination roles.
• Demonstrated understanding of curriculum development, program evaluation, and accreditation standards.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing respectful, patient-centered care across varied populations, and contributing to a well-rounded, skilled healthcare workforce.

• Experience in graduate nursing education and teaching advanced generalist content.
• Evidence of effective leadership in new program development or growth.
• Experience with simulation, innovative pedagogy, or distance-accessible learning models.

Permanent, Full-Time.

To be considered, you must apply online. Hard copy materials will not be accepted for consideration.

Please attach the following:

• Letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• A list of three (3) references with contact information
• Copies of transcripts from the highest degree earned

For questions or additional information, please contact Terri Durbin, Director of the School of Nursing, .

Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Western Carolina University uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Proper documentation of identity and employability is required at the time of employment.

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• Resume
• Unofficial Transcripts
• List of references

• Official transcripts
• Letters of recommendation

Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina.

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call  or email .