Edit this cover letterDepartment Chair Cover Letter Examples
Apply for jobs confidently with our department chair cover letter examples. These samples and writing guide are all you need to create an application letter that lands a job.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Department Chair Cover Letter Example
Use this free template to write a cover letter for any department chair role. Simply follow the instructions and fill in the blanks.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
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How to Write a Department Chair Cover Letter
Before you start writing your cover letter, check out the image below to understand what information to include in each section of your letter.
In the following writing guide, you'll find more details on how to tailor your letter to your target department chair role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
A letter of application is a formal business letter. It should convey professionalism and have an appropriately formatted cover letter header with essential information about the employer and you.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Dr. Michael Turner
Head of Faculty Recruitment
Bright Horizons University
123 Education Lane
San Francisco, CA 94105
Dear Dr. Turner,
Weak cover letter header example:
[REDACTED]
April 09, 2025
To whome it may consern,
Prof. Samm Li
Chairperson,
Univercity of Example
1234 Wrong Rd, Somewhere Ville
Example Phone number: (123) 456-7890
Applicant Address:
Phony Street
Mistake City, 54321
Emial: wrongemail@examplecom
PRO TIP
A big cover letter red flag is to greet the letter's recipient with a generic “To Whom It May Concern.“ Instead, personalize the greeting by stating your recipient's name or address a cover letter without a name professionally with “Dear Hiring Manager.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Quickly capture hiring managers' attention with an engaging first paragraph highlighting your most impressive qualifications. List skills and achievements that show you meet the key job requirements to make a solid first impression. Be professional with your words, but don't be afraid to sound genuine in your interest in the role.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As an associate professor with 15 years of experience in higher education, I am excited to apply for the position of department chair at Riverside University. My expertise in curriculum development and faculty leadership has prepared me for this role, particularly through spearheading a program that boosted student retention rates by 30% over the past three years.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hi there, I’m reaching out to express my interest in becoming the Department Chair at Oak Ridge University. I've worked in education and believe I’m prepared for new challenges.
PRO TIP
If you know someone who works at the company and is willing to vouch for you, mention this in the first paragraph. Find examples of properly addressing this subject in our article for referral cover letter opening paragraphs.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should consist of one or two paragraphs — or even bullet points — sharing what makes you the ideal candidate for the department chair role. Ensure you include relevant quantifiable achievements and more insight into who you are as a professional.
Strong body paragraph example:
As a department chair at my previous institution, I led a strategic initiative increasing departmental research output by 30% over two years. By fostering collaboration and promoting innovative academic programs, we significantly improved student retention rates by 15%. My adept leadership and effective communication skills were pivotal in navigating curriculum development challenges, resulting in enhanced educational outcomes. These experiences demonstrate my commitment to academic excellence and progressive departmental growth.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am interested in the department chair position because I need stability and growth in my career. It seems like a role I'd be capable of handling. Though my accomplishments in leadership are limited, I can adapt quickly. I lack specific examples, but I believe I can contribute positively if given the chance.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
The closing paragraph will be the final section of your department chair cover letter. Use this section to share any final skills or qualifications you possess and state your interest in a future interview. Go for confident tone and proper sign-off before signing your name.
Strong closing paragraph:
With a proven track record in academic leadership, curricular enhancement, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, I am well-prepared to excel as the Department Chair at Hamilton University. I am eager to bring my visionary approach and strong communication skills to your esteemed institution. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team in a future interview.
Sincerely, Alex Thompson
Weak closing paragraph:
I feel this department chair role might be suitable for me. My past experiences might help me get started, and I look forward to possibly discussing the position with you. If you find my application interesting, please let me know. Thanks for thinking about it.
Best,
Michael Johnson
After completing this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to write a compelling cover letter for any department chair role. However, don't waste your time with word processors like Word or Google Docs; take advantage of the pre-formatted cover letter templates and content suggestions our Cover Letter Builder offers. You'll be able to create a custom cover letter in minutes!
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Department Chair
These are some of the most sought-after skills for department chair roles. When describing your accomplishments, incorporate an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills into your letter.
- Academic Leadership
- Curriculum Development
- Strategic Planning
- Budget Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Grant Writing
- Faculty Mentorship
- Research Evaluation
- Accreditation Knowledge
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
- Student Advocacy
- Data-Driven Decision Making
Find more skills and content suggestions that make sense for your department chair cover letter using our Cover Letter Builder to create a custom document. By simply sharing your desired job and writing style, we'll generate a letter in minutes!
Similar Department Chair Cover Letter Examples
You can find more department chair cover letter examples below. Click any template to customize it in our Builder.
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