What Are Career Options with a School Administration Master's Degree?
Master's degree programs in school administration can lead to a variety of careers in school leadership, like principal or superintendent. Continue reading to find out more about these career options.
Career Options Available
Earning a master's degree in school administration can lead to careers as principals, school superintendents and school administrators. Read on to find out more about career options for master's holders.
Important Facts About Education Occupations
| Principals | Postsecondary Administrators | University Presidents and Superintendents | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Education | Master's degree or doctoral degree | Master's degree or doctoral degree | Bachelor's or master's degree |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 8% for all elementary/secondary principals | 10% for all postsecondary administrators | 8% for all top executives |
| Work Environment | Office setting, school | College, university or community college | School district or university office |
| Median Salary (2018) | $95,310 per year for all elementary/secondary principals | $94,340 per year for all postsecondary administrators | $189,600 per year for top/chief executives (includes university presidents and superintendents) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Superintendents
School superintendents participate in meetings with the school committee. They prepare the annual budget, set goals and help implement and modify policies. They're also responsible for hiring school administrators and other personnel, and keeping up-to-date on changes in educational policies, curricula, trends and practices.
Administrator
The duties of school administrators include directing school programs, depending upon their areas of specialization. They may be responsible for finances or curriculum and development in areas such as mathematics, science or English, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, www.bls.gov). These professionals could also make decisions about student issues.
Principal
Principals work with teachers to create a positive school environment, determine educational practices and enforce rules, according to the BLS. They work with school administrators and superintendents to develop goals for the year and make sure students are meeting local, state and federal standards of education. They must also work to meet the emotional needs of students and to ensure their well-being.
University President
At some colleges and universities, a master's degree in school administration or a related degree is sufficient to become the school president, although some require a doctoral degree. According to the job description provided by the University of Colorado, they create biennial (every two years) and annual budgets and speak with government officials. They oversee university affairs and direct other administrators.