A dean is a senior administrator at a college or university who oversees a specific school or department. The dean of the business school, for example, manages the professors, decides which courses to offer, and helps set academic standards. Deans also handle serious student issues: if a student breaks important rules, they might have to meet with the dean to explain what happened.

While a school principal runs an entire elementary or middle school, a university dean usually leads just one part of a larger institution, like the school of engineering or the school of medicine.

In some religious settings, a dean leads a cathedral or group of churches. You might also hear the phrase dean's list, which recognizes students who earn excellent grades. Making the dean's list means you've impressed the very people who set the academic standards, which is no small achievement.

The position requires someone who understands both education and leadership: deans must balance supporting students and professors while maintaining the school's reputation and standards.