Director of Continuing Education

Industry:
Education
Last Updated:
September 19, 2023

Job Description Overview

A Director of Continuing Education job description entails overseeing programs designed to provide adults with further education and training opportunities. Their role is critical in ensuring professionals stay up-to-date in their fields, offering non-credit courses, seminars, and workshops. 

Being a Director of Continuing Education involves collaborating with program coordinators to develop curricula, identifying suitable instructors, setting schedules, and managing budgets. They also conduct research to identify skill gaps and opportunities for advancing the interests of the organisation. The job requires budgeting and marketing courses that reach a target audience, keeping track of enrollment numbers, and reviewing feedback to improve courses.

A Director of Continuing Education typically holds a master's degree and has experience in curriculum design with a solid understanding of adult education principles. They should be self-starters, able to communicate effectively and demonstrate excellent leadership skills. The Director of Continuing Education job description requires multitasking, time management, and problem-solving abilities.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute educational programs for adults who are seeking to further their careers or education
  • Collaborate with academic and industry partners to design courses and curricula that meet the needs of professional learners
  • Oversee the marketing and promotional efforts for these programs and ensure that they are well-attended and well-regarded
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of continuing education programs and make changes as needed to improve outcomes for learners
  • Manage a team of instructional designers, curriculum developers, and other staff members who support the delivery of continuing education programs
  • Stay up-to-date on trends in adult learning and continuing education, and be able to anticipate the needs and interests of learners
  • Cultivate relationships with alumni and other adult learners to create a network of professionals who can support and promote the continuing education programs
  • Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, encouraging staff members to share best practices and explore new ideas for program development
  • Ensure that all programs are compliant with local, state, and federal regulations and that they meet the highest standards of quality and academic rigor.

Experience and Education Requirements

To become a Director of Continuing Education in the Education industry, you typically need a good mix of education and job experience. This type of job usually requires at least a Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field. However, some employers might prefer a higher degree, such as a Master's or even a Doctorate. 

In addition to education, relevant work experience is necessary. Professionals who are interested in becoming a Director of Continuing Education usually start out as teachers or trainers. They could also have experience in educational program development or administration. 

Strong skills in leadership, project management, and communication are also essential for this kind of role. To succeed as a Director of Continuing Education, one needs to be able to manage people, budgets, and schedules. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with team members, educators, and students.

Salary Range

A Director of Continuing Education in the Education industry is responsible for designing, implementing and managing educational programs that provide professional development to adult learners. The expected salary range for this role in the United States is $69,000 to $130,000 per year, according to salary.com. However, the salary range can vary depending on factors such as the size of the institution, experience level, and location. In Canada, the salary range for a Director of Continuing Education is approximately CAD 70,000 to CAD 120,000 per year, according to payscale.com. In the UK, the expected salary range is £35,000 to £70,000 per year, according to prospects.ac.uk. 

Sources:

https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/director-of-continuing-education-salary

https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=DirectorofContinuing_Education/Salary

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/director-of-continuing-professional-development-cpd

Career Outlook

If you're considering a career as a Director of Continuing Education in the Education industry, the outlook is promising due to the increasing demand for continuing education in the workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for postsecondary education administrators, including directors of continuing education, is expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is due to the need for lifelong learning, career development, and skills enhancement in today's rapidly evolving job market. Additionally, technology is driving the demand for innovative and personalized continuing education programs. Aspiring directors of continuing education should focus on developing skills in program development, online education, and technology integration to stay competitive in the job market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a Director of Continuing Education?

A: A Director of Continuing Education is responsible for managing educational programs and courses for adults who want to pursue further learning beyond their initial education.

Q: What kind of education is involved?

A: The primary focus is on adult education which includes professional development, certification, and other continuing education programs.

Q: What is the main goal of a Director of Continuing Education?

A: The main goal is to create and manage educational programs that meet the varied demands and needs of adult learners, whether they're individuals seeking professional development or employers looking to upskill their team.

Q: What skills are required for the job?

A: The skills required include the ability to manage educational programs, effective communication skills, instructional design, decision-making skills and the ability to work and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.

Q: What are some entry-level job opportunities in Continuing Education?

A: Some entry-level positions can include curriculum development or coordinator roles. Most Director of Continuing Education jobs require a strong educational background, including a Bachelor's degree and often a Master's degree in education or relevant field.


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