ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Graduate Dean Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGraduate Dean JobsGraduate Dean Jobs in Tennessee

Graduate Dean information

See Tennessee salary details

$17.2K

$69.4K

$116.6K

How much do graduate dean jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate dean in Tennessee is $69,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Dean, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Dean, you need advanced academic credentials (typically a doctoral degree), leadership experience in higher education, and a strong understanding of graduate program administration. Familiarity with university management systems, accreditation processes, and data analysis tools is commonly required. Exceptional communication, strategic vision, and the ability to foster collaboration set outstanding Graduate Deans apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring academic excellence, effective program oversight, and positive engagement with faculty, staff, and students.

What are Graduate Deans?

Graduate Deans are senior academic administrators who oversee graduate programs at a college or university. They are responsible for setting policies, ensuring academic quality, supporting graduate students, and facilitating communication between faculty, students, and administration. Graduate Deans often work on program development, admissions standards, and funding opportunities. Their role is crucial in maintaining the integrity and reputation of graduate education at their institution.

What are some common challenges a Graduate Dean faces when balancing administrative duties with advocating for student needs?

A Graduate Dean often juggles the demands of overseeing academic policies, managing budgets, and fostering faculty development, while also ensuring graduate students receive the support and resources they need. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, as it requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to mediate between institutional objectives and student advocacy. Success in this role typically involves building collaborative relationships across departments, staying accessible to student concerns, and implementing initiatives that enhance both program quality and student experience.

Can you be a dean with a master's degree?

A Graduate Dean typically requires a doctoral degree in education or a related field, along with extensive experience in academic administration. While a master's degree may be sufficient for some entry-level or assistant roles, becoming a dean generally necessitates higher-level qualifications and leadership experience.

What is the difference between Graduate Dean vs Academic Program Director?

AspectGraduate DeanAcademic Program Director
Required CredentialsTypically a doctoral degree in education or related field, extensive experience in higher education administrationMaster's or doctoral degree, experience in program management or academic administration
Work EnvironmentUniversity or college administration, overseeing multiple departments or facultiesSpecific academic department or program, managing curriculum and faculty
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, universitiesUniversities, colleges, academic institutions
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in academia, overseeing academic policies and student affairsCompared for program management, curriculum development, and faculty coordination

The main difference is that a Graduate Dean oversees broader academic policies and student affairs at the institutional level, while an Academic Program Director focuses on managing specific programs or departments. Both roles require advanced education and experience in higher education, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do graduate school deans make?

Graduate school deans typically earn between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on the institution's size, location, and the dean's experience. Salaries can vary widely, with some deans earning more at large research universities or private institutions. The role often requires advanced degrees and leadership experience in higher education administration.

Can you be a dean without a PhD?

Typically, a Graduate Dean or similar academic leadership role requires a doctoral degree, such as a PhD, as it demonstrates advanced expertise and academic credentials. While some administrative positions may accept master's degrees, most deans are expected to hold a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in their field. Relevant experience in higher education administration and leadership skills are also essential.

What does a graduate school dean do?

A graduate school dean oversees the administration and academic policies of a graduate program, manages faculty and student affairs, and ensures the quality of graduate education. They often coordinate curriculum development, handle budget and resource allocation, and work with university leadership to support research and student success.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Dean jobs in Tennessee? For Graduate Dean jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Dean jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Dean jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Graduate Dean jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Graduate Dean job openings:
Graduate Dean jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Dean job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,433 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Graduate Assistant, Dean of Students

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Lebanon, TN

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position Title

Graduate Assistant for Student Affairs/Dean of Students

Hours Per Week

20 hours per week minimum for term of graduate program

Posting Date

March 2026

Position Start Date

TBD

Job Type

Part-Time

Internal Job Category

Graduate Student

Job Function

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

  • Scheduling of student meetings/events on the master calendar
  • Posting of events on TVs and CU App
  • Assist in the planning of CU events such as Graduation, Convocation, Colloquium
  • Assist in the coordination of summer camps
  • Complete work orders for events
  • Assist in contacting at risk/high attendance students
  • Process Academic Integrity violations in the Advocate system
  • Proctor exams as need for students with disabilities during peak times, mid-term and finals
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Prompt and Reliable
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Professionalism, as this position will be working directly with faculty
  • Ability to work with a diverse student population
  • Effective organization, communication, and leadership skills
  • Highly motivated and enthusiastic

Qualifications

  • Must be accepted to or enrolled in a graduate program at Cumberland University
  • Available to work mainly weekday office hours (8am-5pm), but with some flexibility to start early or stay later as needed for events and/or proctoring (not to exceed 7am-7pm or 20 hours/week)

Apply