District study leader

What does a district study leader do? – Tasks and work environment

A district study leader is responsible for planning, coordinating, and developing study activities within a specific geographic district, often connected to trade unions or adult education organizations. Tasks include recruiting and supervising course leaders, evaluating and following up on courses and training initiatives. The role usually involves close collaboration with local associations, schools, and other partners to ensure that training meets both participants’ and society’s needs. The work environment is varied and can include office work and travel within the district to visit training sites and meet course participants.

Salary development over time

The salary for district study leaders has shown a clear downward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,000 SEK per month, which decreased to 38 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 700 SEK in 2024. Overall, this represents a decrease of approximately 8% over three years. This can partly be explained by changing demand for educational initiatives in adult education and restructuring within larger organizations. Despite the continued importance of the profession for skills development and adult education, market conditions and funding for training have negatively impacted salary development. Women, however, have consistently had a higher average salary than men, which is unusual in the education sector.

District study leader salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 227 SEK/hour
• Women: 38 500 SEK/month (105% of men's salary)
• Men: 36 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on labor market conditions and employer, but clear regional differences are difficult to discern from current data.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a district study leader often involves a combination of education and practical experience within education, adult learning, or organizational work. A post-secondary education in pedagogy, social sciences, or equivalent is common, and many employers also require experience in project management or union activities.

• Post-secondary education: Usually at least 3 years in pedagogy, social sciences, or similar
• Relevant work experience: Experience from adult education, union work, or project management
• Courses/certifications: Leadership training and courses in study methodology can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and good knowledge of Swedish, often also experience with administrative systems
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in associations or adult education organizations provides valuable practical experience

Common benefits and compensations

District study leaders are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Other common compensations include mobile phones, computers, and sometimes travel allowances for trips within the district. Employers bound by collective agreements usually offer regulated benefits and insurances.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for district study leaders is relatively stable, but competition for positions can be high in some regions where the number of vacancies is limited. Challenges in the profession can arise from changing requirements for training content, digitization of courses, and reduced funding for adult education. The ability to quickly adapt to new working methods and handle varying workloads is crucial. The role also requires patience, as processes within non-profit organizations and the education sector are often slow.

Tips for those aspiring to become a district study leader

To succeed as a district study leader, it is good to be communicative and well-organized, as much of the work involves coordinating training efforts and collaborating with many different actors. Initiative is important for independently driving projects and developing activities, while attentiveness and relationship-building facilitate cooperation with participants and colleagues. An interest in pedagogy and adult learning is a significant advantage, as is patience and flexibility when conditions change rapidly. Being solution-oriented helps with unexpected challenges, and experience from associations or adult education can provide valuable insights into the profession's everyday life. Finally, it is important to dare to take responsibility and be open to continuous learning.

Key facts about district study leaders

• Education level: Post-secondary education, at least 3 years
• Work environment: Varied – office, travel, and meetings within the district
• Labor market: 434 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women have higher average salaries than men
• Occupational group: Other educators and instructors

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a district study leader, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles within adult education organizations, such as operations manager, training coordinator, or project manager for larger training initiatives. The Swedish Public Employment Service considers the labor market to be relatively stable, with some demand for experienced leaders in adult education. Digitalization and changing training needs may influence the role in the long term, but the need for individuals with skills to organize and develop study activities is expected to remain. Those wishing to broaden their careers can also focus on educational planning within the public sector or other non-profit organizations.

Frequently asked questions about district study leaders

• What does a district study leader earn?
  - The average salary is 37 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn 38 500 SEK on average, which is 105% of men's average salary of 36 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a district study leader?
  - Usually, at least three years of post-secondary education in pedagogy, social sciences, or similar.
• Are there many jobs as a district study leader?
  - Currently, there are 434 job openings in the profession according to recent statistics.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Communication skills, initiative, flexibility, and patience are central qualities.
• How does education level affect salary?
  - Higher education and experience often provide opportunities for higher salaries, especially within private managerial roles.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and skills development are common.