University chancellors are the chief executives of a single campus or a university system, and they require a diverse set of skills in addition to prior educational experience. Because the selection process and job requirements are not consistent across educational institutions, the path to this career can be highly variable. In general, a person interested in becoming a university chancellor should pursue a PhD in education or a related field, as well as business skills, which can be obtained through a master’s in business administration (MBA) program.
Chancellors are chosen in a variety of ways at universities. Some universities hold elections in which members of a board or organization vote on who should be the next chancellor. Candidates for election may nominate themselves, but they must typically maintain campaigns in order to win votes. Other universities may hire candidates through a search and hiring committee, or they may openly advertise the position and choose from among the applicants.
The university chancellor requires business and fund-raising skills in his or her role as chief executive officer. While other university officers are in charge of day-to-day operations, a person interested in becoming a university chancellor must be able to read and formulate budgets and financial reports. He’ll also need educational experience; many chancellors were previously professors, and others may have gained administrative experience through other positions in the chancellor’s office.
Personal integrity and a good reputation in the community are also important considerations. A person who aspires to be a university chancellor will be the university’s public face in interactions with the public. Everything from resolving town-gown conflicts to working on community education programs falls under the umbrella of public outreach. Candidates with strong recommendations and a track record of community service and active participation in their communities are more likely to be accepted by universities. A highly qualified candidate may be a poor choice if she appears reclusive or brusque, so cultivating people skills is critical.
A candidate interested in becoming a university chancellor should look into jobs not only in education but also in business. Some universities seek executives with a broader range of perspectives and experiences from outside the educational community. Some are former CEOs of large corporations who may apply for or be offered chancellorships because of their passion for education and community service. For those who do not work in education, keeping up with events in college and university systems through conferences, magazines, and other publications can be beneficial.