Leadership of Practice Disciplines in Universities: The case of nurses and teachers

This stimulus paper looks at two relatively new university-based disciplines: nursing and education. The paper unpacks some of the complex issues with which academic leaders have to grapple. First, they have to make the transition from healthcare and schools into higher education, subject to the same requirements as academic leaders in other subjects. As the paper points out, getting a higher degree can be achieved part-time en route, but there is also a need for specific leadership training as these individuals often come directly into higher education at middle management level. The advice those interviewed offer to others is useful and enlightening, but indicates the cultural differences between school/hospital and university.