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Academic Program Director Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

AT - Program Director - CDL

Media, PA · On-site

$60K - $64K/yr

The CDL Program Director provides subject matter expertise and actively participates in curriculum ... Provides academic advising as needed to students. Provides referrals to outside resources when ...

Essential Functions Under the direction of the Department Head and Academic Program Director: * Develop and manage syllabus materials. The adjunct professor is responsible for selecting and compiling ...

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Academic Program Director information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$29.8K

$78.9K

$138.2K

How much do academic program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic program director in Philadelphia, PA is $78,906.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $93,300.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Program jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Academic Program jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Academic Program Director jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Academic Program Director jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Academic Program Director jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Academic Program Director jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Academic Program Director jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Academic Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Academic Program Director job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,906 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment - VUnited Scholars Program

Villanova, PA • On-site


Villanova University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

314th of 625 rated colleges and universities

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Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20260400S
Position Title:
Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment - VUnited Scholars Program
Position Type:
Staff
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/12-months
Avg Hours Week
Department:
261-Continuing Studies Administration
Position Summary:
The VUnited Scholars Program is a residential certificate program offered through the College of Professional Studies (CPS) for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment is a staff member in the College of Professional Studies and is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of the program alongside the Program Director in regard to academics. The Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment attends college meetings and events to further promote the program.
The Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment reports to the Director of the VUnited Scholars Program assisting the Director in coordination of all programmatic aspects related to academics. The Assistant Director for Academic Enrichment is responsible for the strategic planning of the academic portion of the program. This individual is a relationship-builder and collaborator, developing and maintaining positive relationships across the college and wider university to promote understanding and awareness of the program, in consultation with the College of Professional Studies and the Division of Student Life. In addition, the Assistant Director is responsible for ensuring adherence to University and College academic policies and procedures.
Why work at Villanova?
  • Join a mission-driven organization. Since Villanova University's founding in 1842, we have been inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, and are a community dedicated to service to others.
  • Villanova has been included among the nation's best colleges and universities. VU's inclusion again in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 "Best Colleges" rankings is another indication of the University's continued prominence and forward momentum.
  • Villanova's most precious asset is our people. As an employee, you will receive a holistic benefits package, generous paid time off, a competitive retirement savings plan, flexible work options, wellness programs including gym membership, professional development, tuition assistance, and more.

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Academic Coordination & Program Development:
  • Curriculum & Program Design: Partner with the Program Director and Teaching & Learning team to develop, update, and coordinate the VUnited curriculum and academic concentrations in line with industry trends.
  • Academic Administration: Manage semester scheduling, student registration, and enrollment processes (including add/drop and withdrawals) in collaboration with Academic Advisors.
  • Admissions & Evaluation: Serve on the VUnited Admissions team, evaluating applicants and reviewing enrollment processes from an academic perspective.
  • Student Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Campus Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact between students and key campus resources, including Learning Support, Disability Services, the Bursar, and Financial Assistance.
  • Career Programming: Collaborate with career and student support teams to develop technical instruction for apprenticeships, advise VIBE programming, and support pre-college and alumni initiatives.
  • Instruction & Event Facilitation: Teach one course or workshop each semester and help plan student events, including orientations, academic workshops, and professional panels. Operations, Records & Compliance
  • Operations & Credentials: Partner with the CPS Operations team to coordinate course material distribution and ensure the timely awarding of certificates and digital badges.
  • Data & Compliance Management: Maintain accurate student and alumni records, assisting with non-credit enrollment reporting and academic compliance data compilation.

  • Academic Planning & Progress Tracking: Collaborate with the VUnited Program Director and advising teams to design personalized academic plans (including credit courses), monitor student progress, and review IEPs to ensure proper accommodations.
  • Student Advocacy & Retention: Serve as the primary liaison to resolve coursework inquiries, facilitate retention, and deliver a supportive, personalized student experience.
  • Academic Program Coordination: Develop and lead academic workshops, coordinate study halls, and supervise peer tutors and study hall mentors.

  • Professional Development & Faculty Training: Partner with the Teaching & Learning leadership team to design and deliver workshops on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and specialized instructional strategies for diverse learning needs.
  • Instructional Support & Accommodations: Consult with instructors on implementing student accommodations, and coordinate with accessibility services (ADS/LSS) to secure necessary in-classroom assistance.
  • Liaison & Assessment Coordination: Serve as a feedback bridge between students, faculty, and program leadership, while collaborating on student outcome assessments and reporting.

  • Perform other duties and assist with projects as assigned.
  • Participate in events with CPS on occasional nights and weekends.

Minimum Qualifications:
Formal Education
  • Undergraduate degree required

Work Experience
  • Minimum of two years of special education experience in an academic and/or college/university setting.

Work Skills (e.g., written and verbal communication skills)
  • Strong organizational, time management and relationship management skills with demonstrated ability to work as a team player.
  • Anticipate and identify problems and opportunities and takes decisive action to proactively address them.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills; strong organizational, problem solving and decision-making skills are required.
  • Ability to establish and maintain relationships.
  • Sincere commitment to developing the academic, professional, and personal well-being of students.
  • Skills in setting priorities based on the importance of job responsibilities.
  • Communicate professionally and efficiently within a fast-paced environment.

Equipment Knowledge
  • Proficiency in all standard computer applications, including Microsoft office products, extremely proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. General knowledge of office principles and procedures is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Formal Education
  • Post-graduate degree preferred in education, special education, curriculum development or similar field

Work Experience
  • Experience with adult learners preferred.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
This individual will need to attend a variety of evening and weekend events in support of programs.
Special Message to Applicants:
This position is funded through enrollment in the VUnited Program and continuation of the position is contingent upon sufficient enrollment in the program and the availability of related funding.
Posting Date:
08/26/2026
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
This position falls within salaried grade 13 and the range is $52,000-65,100. The final salary will be determined with consideration of several factors including the selected candidate's qualifications, department budget availability, market data, and internal equity.
Salary Grade:
13
Job Classification:
exempt

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About Villanova University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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