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Academic Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL

$55K - $60K/yr

Reporting to the Director of the Office of Transformative Student Experiences, this position will ... The Program Manager provides proactive academic guidance, monitors progress toward graduation ...

University of Utah

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL

$55K - $60K/yr

Reporting to the Director of the Office of Transformative Student Experiences, this position will ... The Program Manager provides proactive academic guidance, monitors progress toward graduation ...

University of Utah

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL

$55K - $60K/yr

Reporting to the Director of the Office of Transformative Student Experiences, this position will ... The Program Manager provides proactive academic guidance, monitors progress toward graduation ...

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How much do academic program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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 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 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 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 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.
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Academic Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Program Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
Academic Program Manager

Academic Program Manager

University of Utah

Campus, IL

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 157 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

334th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Details
Open Date 05/18/2026 Requisition Number PRN45124B Job Title Academic Program Manager Working Title Academic Program Manager Career Progression Track E Track Level FLSA Code Executive Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Some evenings and weekends required.
VP Area Academic Affairs Department 01420 - Advising (Sch of Business) Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $55,000 - $60,000 Close Date 06/12/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) 06/05/2026 Job Summary
The Office of Transformative Student Experiences at the David Eccles School of Business seeks a full-time Academic Program Manager for the First Ascent Scholars Program (FAS). FAS provides wrap-around support to high-achieving college students with high financial need. The First Ascent Program Manager is primarily responsible for the day-to-day student support and student engagement programming. Grounded in a student-centered philosophy, the program prioritizes students' well-being, academic achievement, and holistic development. Through intentional programming, proactive coaching, strong community connections, and meaningful scholarship support, FAS empowers students to succeed academically and graduate in a timely manner. 

Reporting to the Director of the Office of Transformative Student Experiences, this position will support recruitment, selection, and transition into the Eccles School and the First Ascent Scholars program. Responsibilities include overseeing daily program operations; coordinating monthly events; and serving as the primary point of contact to approximately 40 students. The Program Manager provides proactive academic guidance, monitors progress toward graduation, supports scholarship awarding processes, and coordinates individualized interventions in collaboration with campus partners. Additionally, the First Ascent Program Manager will coordinate and participate in events and trips, nationally and internationally, and work to ensure scholarships are appropriately administered.

To learn more about the First Ascent Scholars Program, visit: https://eccles.utah.edu/programs/undergraduate/first-ascent-scholars/
Responsibilities
  • Oversees daily program operations and coordinates program activities of the First Ascent Program.
  • Assists students with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the University of Utah's established priority deadline and meeting other campus deadlines.
  • Provides proactive academic coaching and mentorship throughout students' college careers.
  • Guides students on program, Eccles, and University-wide policies and processes.
  • Oversees administration of Canvas and other student-facing systems for the program.
  • Develops student retention- and community- based engagement activities for FAS student.
  • Ensures students have the resources they need to be successful in college (e.g. counseling, computers, tutoring, academic advising, career coaching, etc.).
  • Monitor student academic progress throughout the semester and develop timely interventions, as needed, to promote and encourage timely graduation.
  • Works closely with the Director of Transformative Student Experiences to support and work with the advisory board to ensure student success.
  • Nurtures collaborative relationships with Eccles Schools and university community members to connect students with opportunities for deep learning and expansion of network.
  • Coordinates and participates in all student engagement events and trips. Must be able to obtain a passport to travel internationally.
  • Helps build student pathways throughout undergraduate student offices, resources, events and opportunities in the David Eccles School of Business.
  • Works with the Director to assess and maintain the program's quality.
  • As requested, prepares reports and records on program status and progress.
  • Participates as an ex-officio member of the First Ascent Scholars Board of Advisors.
  • Other duties as assigned to support the mission of the Office of TransformativeStudent Experiences and Undergraduate Programs

Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related area plus three years of experience in budget, grant and program management or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required.
  • Develops and implements program ideas into successful academic and research programs; demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.
  • Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Business, Communication, or similar.
  • 3+ years of experience in project or program management.
  • 1+ year of experience supervising or mentoring students from different backgrounds.
  • Experience supporting administrators, directors, or faculty leaders.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for engaging different stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with outstanding attention to detail and record keeping.
  • Ability to utilize strong organizational, administrative, and communication skills.
  • Ability to adapt to changing environments and foster a collaborative, inclusive work culture.
    Preferences
  • MEd or Master's degree in Education, Business, Policy and Public Administration, Communication, or similar.
  • 3+ years of experience working with undergraduate students
  • 3+ years of experience in project or program management, preferably in collaboration with academic, industry, and community entities.
  • 3+ years of experience supervising or mentoring students.
Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850

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