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University Dean Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Associate Dean

Washington, DC · On-site

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer ... The Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Programs is responsible for managing Teaching ...

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How much do university dean jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for university dean in the United States is $76,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main responsibilities of a university dean?

A University Dean is a senior academic administrator who oversees a specific college, faculty, or school within a university. Their main responsibilities include managing academic programs, budgeting, faculty recruitment and development, and ensuring the quality of education. Deans also represent their division in university leadership meetings, work on strategic planning, and often engage in fundraising or alumni relations. They play a vital role in shaping academic policies and maintaining standards within their unit.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a university dean?

To thrive as a University Dean, you need advanced academic credentials (often a doctorate), significant leadership experience in higher education, and a track record of scholarship or research. Familiarity with university management systems, budgeting tools, and accreditation processes is essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strategic vision, and the ability to build consensus help a Dean effectively lead diverse faculty, staff, and student populations. These competencies ensure the Dean can advance the institution's mission, foster academic excellence, and navigate complex administrative challenges.

How does a university dean typically balance administrative duties with academic leadership responsibilities?

A University Dean often juggles multiple priorities, including overseeing academic programs, managing faculty affairs, and ensuring the strategic growth of their college or department. Balancing administrative tasks—such as budgeting, compliance, and policy implementation—with academic leadership, like curriculum development and faculty mentorship, requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Deans frequently collaborate with other campus leaders, faculty, and external stakeholders to foster a positive academic environment while meeting institutional goals. Navigating these diverse responsibilities effectively is key to success and job satisfaction in the role.

What is the difference between University Dean vs Department Chair?

AspectUniversity DeanDepartment Chair
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (Master's or Doctorate) in relevant fields, along with significant academic experience.Usually holds a faculty position with a terminal degree; often requires experience in teaching and research.
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple departments or schools within a university, focusing on strategic leadership and administration.Manages a specific academic department, focusing on faculty, curriculum, and departmental operations.
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by universities and higher education institutions in leadership roles.Found within universities, colleges, and academic institutions, often within the faculty structure.

In summary, a University Dean holds a broader leadership role overseeing multiple departments or schools, while a Department Chair manages a specific academic department. Both roles require advanced credentials and experience but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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University Dean jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Dean job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,501 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Assistant Dean, Wayne State University Libraries

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Wayne State University Libraries seek a strategic, collaborative, and visionary leader to serve as the Assistant Dean (AD).  Wayne State University, a premier public research university (R1) serving over 24,000 students in Detroit's vibrant urban landscape, is home to groundbreaking research across disciplines from medicine and engineering to social work and the arts.

Reporting to the Dean and serving as a core member of the senior leadership team, the AD plays a vital role in shaping how the libraries advance the university's mission of research, teaching, and community engagement. The AD leads a broad and dynamic portfolio that includes research support, teaching and learning, user services, assessment, and collection strategy all designed to position WSU students and researchers for success in an evolving information landscape.

The AD will have direct responsibility for several departments within the central campus libraries, including: subject librarians, access services, and collection development and management.  The AD will also be expected to work collaboratively with faculty, students, staff, and external partners to ensure that the WSU Libraries serve as both knowledge hub and innovation partner within the academic community.

Key Responsibilities:

Collaborate with the Dean and senior leadership to set organizational direction, align priorities with university goals, and drive strategic initiatives.

Serve as a member of the Library's leadership team, contributing to long-term planning, resource allocation, budgeting, and decision-making.

Lead and support strategic planning, assessment, and continuous improvement efforts across areas of responsibility.

Serve as the Dean's representative to contractually-mandated committees and other key university governance bodies.

Guide and support library programs that enhance student success through information literacy, instructional design, and curriculum integration.

Collaborate with academic departments, the Office for Teaching and Learning, and other campus partners to embed library expertise into pedagogical development.

Provide vision and oversight for services and infrastructure that advance faculty research.

Oversee the delivery of excellent and equitable user experiences across physical and virtual service points, ensuring 24/7 access to essential resources and support.

Represent the Libraries in university-wide initiatives and serve on key campus committees.

Build strategic partnerships with peer institutions and contribute to profession-wide initiatives.

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