The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) seeks an innovative and highly qualified leader to launch, develop, and direct its new Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences: Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program. This is a rare opportunity to build a program from the ground up, establish meaningful clinical and community partnerships, and prepare graduates for successful careers in a growing healthcare field. Reporting to the Associate Department Head of Nursing and Public Health, the Program Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sonography education at UNI and expanding healthcare workforce capacity across Iowa and the surrounding region.

During the initial development phase, the Program Director will serve as the primary architect of the program, leading curriculum development efforts, laboratory planning, clinical affiliate recruitment, and the CAAHEP/JRC-DMS accreditation process. Following the planned launch of the program in Fall 2028, the Program Director will oversee program operations, teach, support student success, and lead efforts to secure final accreditation while positioning the program for long-term growth and excellence.

This opportunity comes at an exciting time for UNI as the university strengthens its investment in health sciences education. UNI recently established the School of Health & Human Sciences, a collaborative and innovative academic community dedicated to preparing future health and human science professionals through evidence-based practice, inclusive learning environments, and hands-on learning experiences. Recent investments in Nursing and Health Sciences, including concentrations in Public Health Administration and Diagnostic Medical Sonography, reflect the university's commitment to meeting evolving workforce needs and advancing healthcare education. Join UNI at a pivotal moment of growth and innovation and make a lasting impact on students, the sonography profession, and the communities they will serve.

This two-year, term appointment is expected to begin on or before May 2027 and may evolve into a regular position, depending on institutional needs.

About UNI

The University of Northern Iowa is proud of its history and has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of students, employers, and communities. With approximately 9,200 students, UNI offers the academic breadth, faculty expertise, and facilities typically associated with larger institutions while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere and close-knit community of a smaller university. Located in the Cedar Falls-Waterloo metropolitan area, UNI's beautiful, park-like campus spans 940 acres and includes more than 40 academic, residential, and student-centered facilities.

Position Responsibilities:

During the development and launch of the program, the Program Director will:

• Design and implement a comprehensive baccalaureate curriculum aligned with the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) National Education Curriculum (NEC);
• Lead planning efforts related to the physical footprint and infrastructure of the DMS concentration;
• Oversee the purchasing, inventory, calibration, and setup of the on-campus ultrasound scanning laboratory;
• Serve as the primary liaison with JRC-DMS and direct all aspects of the accreditation process;
• Establish and maintain clinical affiliation agreements with healthcare partners to create a robust clinical education network;
• Collaborate with university leadership in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding of additional faculty and staff;
• Provide high-quality instruction in a relevant adjacent program, such as Health Sciences, Public Health, or Public Health Administration; and
• Prepare the program for successful enrollment of the inaugural student cohort.

Following program launch, the Program Director will:

• Support ongoing program development;
• Monitor student achievement and program effectiveness measures;
• Maintain regular office hours and provide academic advising and mentorship to students;
• Provide high-quality instruction in the DMS curriculum; and
• Ensure ongoing compliance with accreditation standards and best practices in sonography education.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree; at least two years of clinical experience as a practicing registered sonographer; experience as an instructor, clinical coordinator, or preceptor within a CAAHEP accredited DMS program; current, active Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credentials from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS); and current certification in one or more sonography concentrations, such as Abdomen (AB), and/or Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN).

Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree; college teaching experience; experience with ultrasound simulation technology or cloud-based image review systems such as SonoSim or Trajecsys; and experience preparing a JRC-DMS self-study report and/or participating in a CAAHEP site visit.

Application Instructions:

All application materials received by December 15, 2026, will be given full consideration. To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. The following materials must be attached when applying:
1) Resume
2) Cover Letter

You will have the opportunity to attach multiple documents when completing the application. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL required materials listed above have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.

The University encourages applications from individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any basis protected by federal and/or state law.

Application materials received by 12/15/2026 will be given first consideration. For more information or to apply, visit https://careers.uni.edu/. Criminal and other relevant background checks required. UNI is a tobacco free campus.