Higher Education / University Glossary

Provost

What does the academic term Provost mean in higher education?

Provost


Provost definition

Short Definition

Provost is the chief academic officer of a college or university, responsible for overseeing its academic programs and policies.


In-depth Overview

Provost

Long definition: A Provost, in the context of higher education, is a senior administrative officer responsible for overseeing the academic affairs and operations of a university or college. The role of a Provost often includes managing academic programs, faculty, research and strategic planning to ensure the institution's educational mission is fulfilled.

Etymology: The term "Provost" has its origins in Old English and Old French. In Old English, "profost" referred to a chief magistrate or head of a town, while in Old French, "provost" meant a chief steward or official. Over time, the term evolved to represent a high-ranking academic administrator in a university.

Synonyms or related academic terms:

  • Chief Academic Officer
  • Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
  • Academic Vice President

Examples of Use:

  • The Provost is responsible for developing and implementing the university's academic policies.
  • Under the guidance of the Provost, the university expanded its research programs.
  • She was appointed as the Provost of the university after a national search for top academic leadership.

Translations:
Spanish: Vicerrector Académico
French: Doyen des Affaires Académiques
German: Prorektor
Italian: Prorettore
Portuguese: Pró-Reitor
Japanese: 学務担当副学長 (Gakumu Tantō Fukugakuchō)
Chinese (Simplified): 教务长 (Jiàowù Zhǎng)
Hindi: शैक्षिक कार्यों का प्रबंधनकर्ता (Shikshik Karyon Ka Prabandhakarta)

Visitors can search for this term through the uniRank World Universities Search Engine.


Wikipedia Article

Provost


unirank Glossary Classification

Miscellaneous higher education terms > University roles and job titles



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