Stepping into Leadership: Essential Skills for New Higher Education Managers

Level(s) of Study: Short course
Course Fee:
Free when subscribed to FutureLearn
Start Date(s): On demand
Duration: 3 weeks, 2 hours a week
Study Mode(s): Part-time
Entry Requirements: More information

Introduction:

Moving into management in higher education involves new responsibilities and challenges that require a different mindset and skill set. On this flexible three week course, participants build core management capabilities and gain the confidence to lead in higher education through sector specific tools, reflective activities, and peer discussion.

The course explores the transition from individual contributor to manager, clarifying expectations, responsibilities, and the leadership mindset required in higher education. Through case studies and real world scenarios, participants develop the ability to build credibility, manage relationships, and navigate the complexities of managing former peers and new stakeholders in academia with confidence.

There is also a strong emphasis on developing practical skills in communication, delegation, and delivering constructive feedback – allowing you to master the fundamentals of people management for higher education.

Backed by the Association of Higher Education Professionals (AHEP) Professional Framework, the course equips learners to address real world situations, motivate teams, and empower staff while fostering a positive team climate. As a free taster, it also introduces the themes, skills and perspectives explored in our MSc Higher Education Management and Leadership programme, offering a clear pathway for those considering further study in this area.

Finally, you’ll explore ways to build personal resilience, manage stress, and maintain well being to sustain effective leadership over time. Strategies for supporting a healthy work life balance and maintaining mental health in high pressure academic settings are reviewed, providing a range of techniques suitable for diverse work styles.

Gain essential management know-how for new higher education managers
Understand the role and mindset of modern higher education managers
Build essential people management skills for effective leadership
Cultivate personal resilience and well-being to thrive as a new manager

What you’ll study

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

apply the AHEP Professional Framework to assess your current leadership competencies and guide your ongoing professional development
develop and demonstrate core management skills, including effective communication, delegation, feedback, and team-building, in alignment with professional standards
engage in reflective practice to identify your strengths, address development areas, and set actionable goals for future leadership growth
create a personalised leadership development plan that integrates AHEP competencies and supports your long-term career progression in higher education management
lead confidently in a leadership role within higher education by understanding the shift in responsibilities and expectations.

Transitioning into Leadership and Introducing the AHEP Framework

Welcome to Stepping into Leadership
Introduction to Leadership Transition and the AHEP Framework

Building People Management Capabilities

Building People Management Capabilities
Building Effective Teams in Higher Education

Building Resilience, Wellbeing and a Leadership Plan

Personal Development Plan
Leadership challenge and next steps

Entry requirements

This course is ideal for higher education professionals looking to develop practical skills and confidence aligned with AHEP professional standards for effective leadership in the sector.