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Academic Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$100K - $136K/yr

This role advises schools and programs on curriculum development and supports academic program ... The Chief manages the university's academic review processes to ensure they meet institutional ...

Program Manager

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Program Manager San Jose, CA About the job: FULL-TIME/PERMANENT DEPARTMENT: Program Management ... Has academic functional skills needed to perform assigned tasks * Computer literate * Strong ...

Program Manager

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Program Manager San Jose, CA About the job: FULL-TIME/PERMANENT DEPARTMENT: Program Management ... Has academic functional skills needed to perform assigned tasks * Computer literate * Strong ...

The Academic Manager works closely with the Director of Academic Support Services to oversee the development and implementation of the academic program and provide direct academic and classroom ...

Program Manager

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$43K/yr

Track and provide support for volunteers to grow with our organization throughout their academic career and post-secondary, including the Best Buddies Jobs program. * Manage state citizen matches and ...

Academics Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

The Academic Manager works closely with the Director of Academic Support Services to oversee the development and implementation of the academic program and provide direct academic and classroom ...

Program Manager

Stockton, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Maintains departmental operational, administrative, academic, and clinical archives, developing and ... Manages program assessment and oversees the management of student clinical records, including ...

Program Manager

Covina, CA ยท On-site

$72K - $104K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY The Program Manager is an experienced professional nurse who assists in the ... Maintains continuing education through academic studies, seminars, and workshops. Plans and ...

Showing results 41-60

Academic Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

How much do academic program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an academic program manager do?

An Academic Program Manager oversees the planning, development, and administration of educational programs within an academic institution. Their responsibilities often include coordinating curriculum development, managing program budgets, ensuring compliance with institutional policies, and supporting faculty and student needs. They serve as a liaison between departments, faculty, and external partners to ensure the success and quality of academic offerings. Additionally, Academic Program Managers may analyze program performance data and recommend improvements for future growth.

What are some common challenges faced by academic program managers when coordinating multiple academic programs, and how can they be addressed?

Academic Program Managers often juggle responsibilities such as scheduling courses, coordinating faculty, managing budgets, and ensuring program compliance. A common challenge is balancing the needs of students, faculty, and administration while adhering to institutional policies and accreditation standards. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential for overcoming these challenges. Leveraging project management tools and fostering collaborative relationships across departments can also help streamline processes and ensure program success.

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

AspectAcademic Program ManagerAcademic Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, relevant experienceTypically similar, often requiring a Bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentHigher-level planning, strategic oversightAdministrative support, daily operations
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, universitiesSchools, colleges, educational programs
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on program management, strategic rolesFocus on administrative and support roles

The main difference is that an Academic Program Manager oversees the planning and strategic development of academic programs, while an Academic Coordinator handles daily administrative tasks and supports program operations. The Program Manager has a broader scope and higher responsibility level.

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

To thrive as an Academic Program Manager, you need a strong background in education administration, program development, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in higher education. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), student information systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help build productive relationships with faculty, students, and stakeholders. These skills are vital for ensuring academic programs run efficiently, meet educational objectives, and adapt to institutional needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Academic Program jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Academic Program Manager jobs in California?

For Academic Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Academic Program Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Academic Program Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Academic Program Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Academic Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Academic Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,053 per year, or $51 per hour.

Academic and Program Leadership Positions College of Nursing

Samuel Merritt University

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description:
Job Description Summary:
Samuel Merritt University
Multiple Openings | All specialty areas
Locations: Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, and Foster City (CA).
About Samuel Merritt University
Samuel Merritt University (SMU) is a private, non-profit health sciences university dedicated to educating compassionate, skilled, and culturally responsive health professionals who serve diverse and underserved communities. With campuses in Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, and Foster City, SMU is deeply embedded in California's healthcare ecosystem and committed to health equity, interprofessional education, clinical excellence, and workforce development.
Position Overview
The College of Nursing invites applications for exceptional academic and program leaders to support strategic growth. This initiative reflects the University's priorities related to enrollment growth, program excellence, community-engaged practice, and preparation of the nursing workforce needed to serve California's diverse populations.
Appointments may be made at the assistant, associate, or full professor level depending on qualifications and institutional needs. Positions may be based at any SMU campus, with opportunities for collaboration across locations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Areas of Appointment
Academic & Program Leadership Roles
(e.g., Program Directors, Associate/Assistant Deans, Specialty Track Leads)
Primary Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for nursing programs or academic initiatives
  • Support faculty development, curriculum quality, and regulatory compliance
  • Advance enrollment growth, student outcomes, and workforce-aligned programming
  • Strengthen partnerships with clinical affiliates, health systems, and community organizations
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, equity, innovation, and continuous improvement

Preferred Expertise
  • Demonstrated academic, clinical, or administrative leadership experience
  • Experience with accreditation (e.g., CCNE), assessment, and program evaluation
  • Strong communication, organizational, and change-management skills

Minimum Required Qualifications (All Positions)
  • Earned graduate degree in nursing (doctoral degree preferred)
  • Active or eligible California RN licensure
  • Evidence of effective teaching, clinical excellence, scholarship, and/or leadership, as appropriate to role
  • Demonstrated commitment to inclusive excellence and health equity
  • Ability to work effectively in an urban, multi-campus, mission-driven academic environment

Why Join Samuel Merritt University?
  • Deep commitment to health equity and serving underserved communities
  • Strong clinical partnerships across Northern and Central California
  • Collaborative, student-centered faculty culture
  • Opportunities for interprofessional teaching, practice, and scholarship
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

Application Process
Applicants should submit:
  • Cover letter identifying area(s) of interest (pre-licensure, post-licensure, leadership) and preferred campus location(s).
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Statement of teaching philosophy and/or leadership approach

The annual salary for Academic and Program Leadership positions is determined based on the scope of the role, relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and other job-related factors. Depending on the position and candidate qualifications, salaries may range up to $160,000.
Employee Status:
RegularExemption Status:
United States of America (Exempt)Time Type:
Full timeJob Shift:
Pay Range:
The annual salary for Academic and Program Leadership positions is determined based on the scope of the role, relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and other job-related factors.
Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills.