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Academic Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL · On-site

$54K - $55K/yr

Serve as a contact and resource for Phase 2 Director, LIC Directors, Phase 2 Academic Half Day ... Support Parallel Programs at Branch Campuses This is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a ...

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL · On-site

$54K - $55K/yr

Serve as a contact and resource for Phase 2 Director, LIC Directors, Phase 2 Academic Half Day ... Support Parallel Programs at Branch Campuses This is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a ...

Academic Program Manager

Campus, IL · On-site

$54K - $55K/yr

Serve as a contact and resource for Phase 2 Director, LIC Directors, Phase 2 Academic Half Day ... Support Parallel Programs at Branch Campuses This is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a ...

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Academic Program Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

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.
More about Academic Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Academic Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Academic Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Program jobs? The most popular types of Academic Program jobs are:
What states have the most Academic Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Academic Program Director jobs include:
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.

$29.76 - $30.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago


Job description

The Academic Program Specialist for the Doctor of Medicine program supports the delivery of the four-year Physician-Citizen-Scholar curriculum. Under the direction of the Director and Assistant Director for the Office of Curriculum, the Academic Program Specialist provides administrative and operational support in the delivery of the curriculum. Specific duties include:

  • Manage the scheduling of courses, trainings, workshops and skills assessments in the curriculum. Reserve rooms, ensure appropriate equipment is available and coordinate students' and faculty participation.
  • Coordinate the production and dissemination of calendars/course schedules and other academic material. Assist in revisions and edits of materials and upload into the learning management system.
  • Identify and assess concerns related to the curriculum and facilitate appropriate intervention under the direction of faculty and staff leadership.
  • Participates in curriculum committee meetings. Follow up on action items and completes special projects.
  • Coordinate faculty meetings and training.
  • Monitor student attendance at required sessions
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

The hourly rate range for this position is $29.76 - $30.90. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education:
Bachelor's degree. Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 2 years. Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Experience in higher education and/or customer service. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills for interacting with both domestic and international stakeholders.
Demonstrated attention to detail.
Proven ability to plan, implement, and coordinate program logistics. Demonstrated database/data entry experience. Proven project management and problem solving skills, able to handle multiple timelines, changing priorities, and fluctuating workloads.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

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