Course developer, education system

What does a course developer in the education sector do? – Tasks and work environment

Course developers in the education sector are responsible for planning, designing, and quality-assuring educational materials and curricula within schools, universities, adult education, and sometimes corporate training. The role often involves close collaboration with teachers, subject experts, and administrators to ensure that the content is current, pedagogically sound, and tailored to the target audience’s needs. The work environment is typically office-based and can involve both independent work and teamwork on projects. Digitalization and remote teaching mean many course developers also create digital learning materials and work with learning platforms.

Salary development over time

The salary for course developers in the education sector has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, increasing to 34 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 35 700 SEK, which is approximately a 7.5% increase over three years. This trend reflects an increased demand for pedagogical specialist skills, especially as digital education methods become more central. The market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, contributing to relatively stable salary development without major fluctuations.

Course developer in the education sector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,500 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 54,200 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral studies)
• Hourly wage (average): 215 SEK
• Women earn: 35 500 SEK/month (99% of men's salaries)
• Men earn: 36 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: May exist, but salary range mainly depends on education level and sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a course developer in the education sector, a university degree with a pedagogical focus is usually required, often supplemented with subject studies in the area of course development. Many employers also seek experience in teaching, project management, or work with digital learning platforms. Practical experience and further training in didactics and educational technology are also advantageous.

• Teacher qualification or pedagogical university degree: 3–5 years
• Specialized courses in didactics or educational technology
• Experience in teaching or course management
• Certifications in digital learning platforms (optional but advantageous)
• Ability to work project-based and independently

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, course developers in the education sector are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, professional development, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Particularly in the public sector, holiday pay and extra vacation days are common, along with collective insurance agreements and parental leave conditions.

Competition and challenges

The job market for course developers in the education sector is considered balanced, with moderate opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts. Challenges mainly involve staying updated on new pedagogical methods, digital tools, and evolving content requirements. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially within larger educational institutions or in sought-after subject areas. To stand out, a broad pedagogical knowledge and the ability to work with modern educational technology are often required. The role also demands strong project management and collaboration skills, as development work is often team-based.

Tips for aspiring course developers in the education sector

To succeed as a course developer in the education sector, it is beneficial to combine pedagogical expertise with a genuine interest in development and innovation. Structured and analytical skills are important when designing curricula tailored to different target groups. Good communication and listening skills facilitate collaboration with teachers and subject experts, while technical curiosity makes it easier to adopt new digital tools. Flexibility and independence are valued when tasks vary and the pace can be high. For those looking to stand out, investing in courses in educational technology and actively seeking project management or mentoring opportunities can be advantageous. Staying constantly updated on educational trends and further education is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about course developers in the education sector

• Education level: Usually university or college degree, often with a pedagogical focus
• Work environment: Office-based, often with flexible work arrangements and digital tools
• Demand: Moderate opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Gender distribution: Small salary difference between men and women (99% of men's salaries)
• Role scope: Work in projects, with digitalization and development of new educational formats

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of course developer in the education sector, opportunities open up for more specialized or leadership positions, such as education manager, pedagogical developer, or head of educational departments. Some choose to work with the development of digital educational platforms or become consultants in educational technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for pedagogues within culture and other pedagogical specialists, the job market is expected to be balanced with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. For those willing to further their education in digitalization or pedagogy, there are good chances for a long-term and developing career. Currently, there are approximately 434 job openings in the field, indicating steady demand.

Frequently asked questions about course developers in the education sector

• What does a course developer in the education sector earn?
  - The average salary is 35 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on education level, sector, and experience.
• What education is required to become a course developer?
  - Usually, a university degree with a pedagogical focus, often supplemented with subject studies and teaching experience.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - The difference is small; women earn approximately 99% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities over the next five years.
• What tasks are included in the role?
  - Planning, development, and evaluation of educational materials, as well as collaboration with teachers and subject experts.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness contributions, professional development, and the possibility of remote work are common benefits.
• What are the career paths?
  - Opportunities to advance to roles such as education manager, pedagogical developer, or department head within the education sector.