In 1952, she received her BA in Biology from Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. She joined the Army in 1953. During her three years in the military, she trained as a physical therapist. Following her military service, Jocelyn attended the University of Arkansas medical school.

In 1960, she received her MD. She then after worked at the University of Minnesota Hospital and at the University of Arkansas. In 1967, she received her MS in Biochemistry.

Jocelyn received a National Institute of Health Career Development award and also served as an assistant professor in pediatrics at the University of Arkansas Medical Center.

She was promoted to associate professor in 1971 and professor in 1976. Her research interest was endocrinology. In 1978, she received certifications a pediatric endocrinologist. She became an expert on childhood sexual development.

In 1987, Governor Bill Clinton appointed her Director of the Arkansas Department of Health. On September 8, 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed her Surgeon General of the Public Health Service.

She was a strong advocate for health education including sex education in schools. Due to a controversial remark with regards to sex education, she was forced to resign, after a short 15 months of service.

Jocelyn returned to the University of Arkansas Medical Center as a professor of Pediatrics.