This article examined the formation process of both department culture and leadership for the growth of university department and suggested some implications of adult education for the growth factors, as shown in the case of Departme nt of Lifelong Education at Soongsil University. The study focused on the progression of one’s entire degree program, relationship between professors and students, and leadership team of the department. Data collections were exhibited through ethnographic depth interviews of graduate students, graduates, and visiting instructors. In so doing, the leadership team of professors prominently stood out
as one of the growth factors. While they shared the leadership function and performed collaboratively as one, they influenced adult learners to move to accomplish their goals. The second finding of the growth factor was based on we‐ismand the interpersonal ties between peer groups. The cooperation of peer groups produced multiplied outcomes. Academic achievement was not a sole product of one group or team. It needed to be fulfilled within a proper organizational culture and suitable leadership in order to imply some perspectives for the growth of adult education in Korea at the levels of both individual and institution.