MSW Program Director

Position Overview: MBU is seeking an innovative and dynamic leader to serve as the Inaugural Director of our Master of Social Work (MSW) program. The MSW Program Director will play a pivotal role in the development, implementation, and growth of the program, ensuring it meets the highest standards of excellence and aligns with the university’s mission. This position requires a visionary individual with extensive experience in social work education, a strong commitment to student success, and a collaborative approach to leadership.

This position is regional to Virginia. The role is remote but will include some time on campus.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Management:

• Lead design and development of the MSW program curriculum, including course content, teaching methods, and field placements.
• Establish and oversee program policies, procedures, and standards to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements and professional guidelines.
• Manage program resources, including budgeting, staffing, and scheduling.

Accreditation and Compliance:

• Guide the program through the accreditation process with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and maintain ongoing compliance with accreditation standards.
• Stay current with changes in accreditation requirements and social work practice standards.

Faculty and Staff Leadership:

• Recruit, hire, and mentor faculty and staff for the MSW program, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities.

Student Recruitment and Success:

• Develop and implement strategies for recruiting and retaining high-quality students.
• Support students through academic advising, career counseling, and mentorship.
• Address student concerns and provide solutions to ensure a positive educational experience.

Community and Professional Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national social work organizations and agencies.
• Promote the MSW program through outreach and partnerships, enhancing its visibility and impact.
• Stay engaged with current trends and developments in social work and higher education.

Research and Scholarship:

• Encourage and support faculty and students in engaging in research and scholarly activities.
• Pursue funding opportunities and collaborate on research projects relevant to social work practice and education.

Qualifications:

• Education: Doctoral degree (PhD or DSW) in Social Work or a related field is preferred. A Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) with extensive experience may be considered.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in social work education, including experience in a leadership or administrative role. Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, accreditation processes, and program management.
• Licensure: Current licensure as a social worker is preferred.
• Skills: Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and a commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment.
• Attributes: Visionary thinking, a passion for social work education, and a commitment to student success and community engagement.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for at least three professional references to: Mary Clay Thomas, MThomas@marybaldwin.edu. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Mary Baldwin University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

About Mary Baldwin University: Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains in Staunton, Virginia, MBU was founded in 1842 on the belief that everyone deserves access to a high-quality college education. We were one of the first East Coast institutions to purpose-build degree programs for returning and nontraditional learners. Now we’re creating the most personalized and value-oriented learning experience in the U.S.