Continuing education consultant

What does a Continuing Education Consultant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Continuing Education Consultant works with planning, coordinating, and implementing professional development initiatives for practitioners across various fields, often within the education sector or organizations with significant skills development needs. Tasks include needs assessments, designing training programs, recruiting speakers, and evaluating the effectiveness of training efforts. Collaborations often involve school administrators, HR departments, and external training providers. The work environment features a mix of office work, digital meetings, and in-person training sessions, demanding strong planning skills and excellent communication abilities.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salaries for Continuing Education Consultants have shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023. The latest figures for 2024 indicate a further rise to 45 900 SEK per month, representing a salary increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. This trend can largely be explained by increased demand for specialized skills development in both public and private sectors, along with higher educational requirements for the role. The market's need for tailored training programs and the growing emphasis on lifelong learning have also contributed to the profession’s salary growth. Despite these increases, salary levels remain strongly linked to education level and employment sector.

Complete Overview of Continuing Education Consultant Salaries

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, government sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, research qualifications)
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 46 000 SEK/month (101% of men's salary), men 45 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Continuing Education Consultant, a higher education degree in pedagogy, educational sciences, or a related field is usually required. Many employers value prior experience in adult education, mentoring, or project management. Further training and certifications in didactics and leadership can be advantageous, especially for those aiming to work on specialized training initiatives. Practical experience in conducting training sessions and a broad network within the education sector are often crucial for success in the role.

• Formal degree: University degree, often in pedagogy (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in mentoring, project management, or digital learning
• Internship: Recommended, especially within adult education or skills development
• Prerequisites: Prior experience in educational activities is often required
• Tips: Specialize in a subject area to increase your attractiveness

Common Benefits and Perks

The Continuing Education Consultant profession often offers benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development through internal and external courses. Occupational pension schemes and flexible working hours are common, especially in the public sector. Some employers also provide options for remote work and subsidized meals.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Continuing Education Consultant is considered moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation according to the Swedish Employment Service forecasts. Those wishing to establish themselves in the profession may face challenges such as high demands for pedagogical competence, current subject knowledge, and familiarity with digital tools. Since the role often requires independent work and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new subject areas, continuous updating of skills is important. Competition may be particularly noticeable when applying for positions within larger educational organizations and authorities.

Tips for Aspiring Continuing Education Consultants

To succeed as a Continuing Education Consultant, it is beneficial to develop strong communication skills, as much of the work involves conveying knowledge and motivating participants. Good self-leadership is important, as the workday often requires independent decisions and responsibility for project execution. Being analytical and curious helps in identifying skills gaps and designing relevant training programs. Flexibility and adaptability are also crucial, especially when tasks change rapidly or new subject areas need to be introduced. An interest in lifelong learning and development makes it easier to stay updated within the profession. Building networks and collaborating with other educators and experts increases chances of interesting assignments. Finally, attention to detail and a structured working methodology are key to successfully managing projects from start to finish.

Key Facts About Continuing Education Consultants

• Educational level: University degree in pedagogy or related field
• Work environment: A mix of office, digital platforms, and training venues
• Demand: Moderate, balanced on the job market
• Typical work form: Project-based and independent work
• Special skills: Skills development, mentoring, digital didactics

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a Continuing Education Consultant can advance to roles such as training manager, project leader for larger skills development programs, or specialist in pedagogical development. The Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts for related professions indicate moderate opportunities for employment and a continued balanced recruitment situation over the next five years. Demand for qualified consultants is expected to remain unchanged, but increased focus on digitalization and flexible learning may create new career opportunities. Currently, there are 434 job openings, reflecting a healthy job market for those with the right skills and experience.

Common Questions About Continuing Education Consultants

• What is the salary of a Continuing Education Consultant?
  - A Continuing Education Consultant has an average salary of 45 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How do gender differences look for the salary of a Continuing Education Consultant?
  - Women earn on average 101% of what men do in the profession, with an average salary of 46 000 SEK compared to men's 45 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Continuing Education Consultant?
  - Usually, a university degree in pedagogy, educational sciences, or equivalent, along with experience in educational activities.
• Are there many job openings for Continuing Education Consultants?
  - There are 434 job openings within the profession, indicating a healthy job market.
• What are the most common benefits for Continuing Education Consultants?
  - Extra vacation days, wellness allowances, professional development, occupational pension, and flexible hours are common benefits.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The forecast indicates that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest salary for a Continuing Education Consultant?
  - The highest recorded salary is 50,700 SEK per month, applicable to a woman with research qualifications in the public sector.