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What does an Academic Dean do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An academic dean is responsible for the educational quality of a college or university. The dean typically has oversight of faculty and curriculum, and may also be responsible for student services and admissions.

Academic Dean job duties include:

  • Overseeing the daily operations of the academic department
  • Planning and implementing departmental goals and objectives
  • Supervising and evaluating faculty and staff performance
  • Developing and administering the departmental budget
  • Monitoring student enrollment and retention rates
  • Analyzing student feedback and course evaluations
  • Coordinating with other departments and divisions within the school
  • Serving on various committees and task forces
  • Advocating for the department at the institutional level
  • Representing the department to external constituents

Academic Dean Job Requirements

An academic dean is the chief academic officer of a college or university. In the United States, the academic dean is typically a vice president or provost. The dean is responsible for the academic affairs of the institution and for ensuring that the faculty provides a high-quality education to the students. The academic dean is also responsible for hiring and firing faculty, and for approving new courses and programs. To be an academic dean, you will need at least a master's degree in education or a related field. Many academic deans have doctorates. You will also need several years of experience as a professor or administrator at a college or university.

Academic Dean Skills

  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Leadership
  • Strategic Planning
  • Budgeting
  • Fundraising
  • Marketing
  • Public Relations
  • Alumni Relations
  • Student Affairs
  • Academic Affairs

Related: Top Academic Dean Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Academic Dean

An academic dean is the chief academic officer of a college or university. In this role, the dean is responsible for the quality of the institution's academic programs and for ensuring that they meet the needs of students and the community. The dean also works closely with the president and other senior administrators to develop and implement the institution's strategic plan.

To become an academic dean, one must first earn a terminal degree in their field from an accredited institution. Many deans also have experience teaching at the collegiate level. Once they have earned their degree and gained some teaching experience, individuals can begin to pursue administrative positions within their department or college. Those who are interested in becoming an academic dean should also consider pursuing a Master's Degree in Education Administration or a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership. These degrees will provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role.

Related: Academic Dean Resume Example

Related: Academic Dean Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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