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Academic Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brain Balance of Omaha

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Program Director

Omaha, NE · On-site

$46K - $48K/yr

Reporting to the Center Director, the Program Director is an in-center position designed to oversee Sensory Motor and Academic programs. They also are responsible for coaching and scheduling staff at ...

Brain Balance of Omaha

Be Seen First

Program Director

Omaha, NE · On-site

$46K - $48K/yr

Reporting to the Center Director, the Program Director is an in-center position designed to oversee Sensory Motor and Academic programs. They also are responsible for coaching and scheduling staff at ...

Troy University

Academic Program Specialist

Troy, AL · On-site

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number SF2535P Position Title Academic Program ... The position reports to the School Director. Duties and responsibilities include: general office ...

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How much do academic program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an academic program director do?

An Academic Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs within a college or university. They are responsible for curriculum development, faculty coordination, and ensuring that the program meets institutional standards and accreditation requirements. Additionally, they often manage budgets, assess student outcomes, and work to improve the quality and reputation of the academic program. Program Directors also serve as a primary point of contact for students, faculty, and external stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Program Director, you need expertise in curriculum development, program management, and a relevant advanced degree, often at the master's or doctoral level. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), accreditation processes, and data analysis tools is typically required. Exceptional leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with faculty, students, and administration are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure the effective delivery, assessment, and continuous improvement of academic programs, supporting institutional goals and student success.

What are some common challenges academic program directors face when managing curriculum updates?

Academic Program Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of faculty, students, and accreditation bodies when updating curricula. They must ensure that course content remains current and relevant while aligning with institutional goals and compliance requirements. Coordinating input from multiple stakeholders and securing necessary approvals can be time-consuming, but strong organizational skills and proactive communication help facilitate a smooth revision process.

What is the difference between Academic Program Director vs Academic Coordinator?

AspectAcademic Program DirectorAcademic Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire academic programs, develops curriculum, manages faculty, and ensures program quality.Supports daily program operations, assists with scheduling, and coordinates student activities.
Required CredentialsTypically requires a master's or doctoral degree in education or related field, with experience in program management.Usually requires a bachelor's degree, with experience in administrative or educational support roles.
Work EnvironmentWorks in academic institutions, administrative offices, and collaborates with faculty and staff.Works in academic offices, assisting faculty and students, often in a support capacity.

The Academic Program Director focuses on strategic oversight and curriculum development, while the Academic Coordinator handles day-to-day operations and support tasks. Both roles are essential in educational settings but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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Academic Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Academic Program Director - Physical Therapy

Austin, TX

Excelon Associates
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Excelon Associatesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 2 hours ago

Job description

Academic Program Director, Physical Therapy - Austin, TX
 
Excelon Associates is partnering with a higher education institution to recruit a Program Director to provide academic leadership, operational oversight, and strategic direction for a campus-based academic program. This individual will work closely with the Dean and faculty to ensure curriculum delivery, accreditation compliance, faculty development, and strong student outcomes, while serving as a key liaison between the program and broader institutional leadership.
 
The Program Director is responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of the academic program in alignment with institutional goals, learning outcomes, and accreditation standards. This role provides leadership across curriculum implementation, faculty management, accreditation activities, and continuous improvement initiatives, while supporting student success and academic quality. The Program Director also plays a central role in strategic planning, assessment, and cross-departmental collaboration.
 
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Planning
  • Provide leadership, vision, and structure for the academic program in alignment with institutional strategic and quality improvement plans
  • Assess and report on program metrics including faculty workload, scholarly activity, student satisfaction, graduation rates, and enrollment trends
  • Contribute to long-term planning initiatives related to program growth, effectiveness, and sustainability
Program Operations & Academic Oversight
  • Oversee day-to-day program operations to ensure effective workflows, quality curriculum delivery, and achievement of student learning outcomes
  • Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to coordinate initiatives and support institutional priorities
  • Foster a campus culture focused on academic achievement, professional development, and student engagement
  • Support educational effectiveness through reporting and participation in governance or management committees
  • Communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff, including advising students and supporting issue resolution
  • Partner with clinical education teams to ensure high-quality experiential learning opportunities
  • Participate in student recruitment activities, including information sessions and outreach efforts
  • Ensure faculty alignment with departmental and institutional outcomes outlined in institutional effectiveness plans
Faculty Leadership & Development
  • Recruit, hire, develop, and evaluate core and adjunct faculty
  • Support faculty workforce planning and instructional coverage
  • Evaluate faculty performance using established standards and provide mentorship to support professional growth
  • Build a collaborative, accountable, and mission-driven faculty culture
Scholarly & Professional Engagement
  • Stay current with educational best practices, policy changes, and industry developments affecting the program
  • Maintain active engagement in professional organizations and scholarly activities
  • Support a culture of continuous improvement through research-informed practice and professional development
Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities
  • Lead program-level strategic initiatives and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement
  • Support internal and external stakeholder relationships with a strong customer service mindset
  • Develop and manage annual budgets related to the program, including oversight of expenditures
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and accrediting body requirements
  • Lead local participation in programmatic accreditation processes, including reporting and documentation
  • Participate in institutional meetings and leadership councils as appropriate
  • Maintain a teaching load of approximately 0.5 FTE
  • Approve prerequisite substitutions and transfer credit evaluations
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Provide direct supervision to core faculty, contributing faculty, and program staff
  • May oversee an Assistant Director or Site Coordinator
Reporting Structure
  • Reports to: Associate Dean
Travel Requirements
  • Occasional local or overnight travel to other campuses may be required
  • Valid driver's license and state-required insurance required
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Excelon does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, marital or veteran status, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.