What processes would one have to go to in order to become a dean at a university/college?

Question

Just curious but the more detailed the better. Thanks.

Answer 1

Generally, you would have to get a doctorate first, then spend a few years as a professor, working your way up the scale to a full professorship. This would then be followed by a department chairmanship, then, after years of distinguished service, you may or may not be selected as a dean

Answer 2

The answer depends on the college within the university. For most colleges, the Dean is a former professor who has shown skill as an administrator (e.g., department head).

For Professional Schools, however, the Dean is often someone who comes from industry. Business Schools often hire former CEOs to be their Deans. Often they will have an MBA but not a PhD (there are many exceptions because a number of former professors start their own firms). Similarly, Law Schools will sometimes hire someone who has practiced law rather than someone who has been a professor. Top professional schools often care more about the fund raising abilities of their Deans than their academic credentials.