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How to Become an Education Administrator: The job outlook for education administrators is growing faster than average. Here’s what you need to know to enter the field.
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Introduction
In order to become an education administrator, you will need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. However, many education administrators have master’s degrees or even doctorates. You will also need to have several years of experience working in a school district or in an educational setting. In some cases, you may be able to transfer from another career into education administration.
What Does an Education Administrator Do?
An education administrator is typically responsible for managing the daily operations of a school or educational institution. In some cases, they may also be responsible for developing curriculum, hiring and training staff, and budgeting. Education administrators typically work in elementary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming an education administrator generally starts with completing a bachelor’s degree in education. While some schools may require a master’s degree for certain positions, most education administration jobs will require at least a bachelor’s degree. In addition to taking coursework related to education and administration, students interested in becoming an education administrator should also consider taking courses in business and management.
Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree, you will need to obtain a teaching license in order to work in a public school. The requirements for obtaining a teaching license vary by state, but generally involve completing an accredited teacher preparation program and passing a state-issued certification exam. After you have obtained your teaching license, you can begin working towards your goal of becoming an education administrator.
There are several ways to advance your career in education administration. Many education administrators start out as teachers before moving into administrative roles. Others may begin their careers in educational support roles, such as guidance counselors or instructional coordinators. Regardless of how you start, the best way to advance your career is to obtain a master’s degree in educational administration or a related field.
A master’s degree will prepare you for the challenges of working as an education administrator. In addition to taking coursework related to administration and management, you will also likely participate in internships or practicum experiences that will give you firsthand experience working in an administrative role. Once you have completed your master’s degree, you should be prepared to take on the challenges of working as an education administrator.
Steps to Becoming an Education Administrator
1. Get a bachelor’s degree in education.
Most education administrators have a bachelor’s degree in education, although some have a master’s or doctorate degree in education administration or leadership.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for education administrators is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment in this field will grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will result in approximately 46,900 new jobs during this 10-year period.
Salary and Career Advancement Opportunities
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median salary for education administrators was $94,390 in 2015. The top 10 percent of earners in this field made more than $156,540, while the bottom 10 percent made less than $54,230. Salaries for education administrators can vary depending on the level of education they possess, the type of position they hold and the size and location of their school or district.
Career advancement opportunities for education administrators typically come in the form of promotions to positions with greater responsibility. Some education administrators may also choose to move into higher-level positions in state or federal government agencies or educational organizations. Some administrators may also choose to open their own consulting businesses or become college professors or researchers.
