What Can I Do with a Master's in Education Administration Degree?

What Is a Master's Degree in Education Administration?

A master's degree in education administration or educational leadership is a graduate-level degree designed to equip students with the skills needed to take on high-level administrative positions within the field of education. This degree is usually pursued by teachers or professors who are already working at a school with the intent of advancing their careers, although it may also be pursued directly after completing a bachelor's degree program in education. Because education professionals are almost always licensed by the state, the content of these programs can vary slightly from state to state, and prospective students should usually try to enroll in a master's program in the state in which they plan to teach or work. Additionally, some master's in education administration programs will offer specialization options, aimed at meeting the requirements for particular job titles. These often include internships or other forms of hands-on learning.

What Can I Do with a Master's in Education Administration?

There are several careers for which a master's in education administration is required or recommended, although many of them may prefer or require several years of experience as a classroom teacher or other related career first. Some of these positions include:

• Elementary or secondary school principal
• School superintendent
• Academic dean at post-secondary institution
• University registrar

The requirements and responsibilities of each of these master's in education administration jobs can vary, and each will be explained in detail below.

Elementary or Secondary School Principal

Principals of primary and secondary schools are almost always required to hold a master's degree in education administration or leadership. Principals are often promoted from experienced teachers within a school system, so you will likely need to spend at least a few years teaching. They are responsible for areas such as budgeting, managing staff and teachers, and interacting with the local community. Like teachers, principals are usually licensed by the state, so aspiring principals must make sure that they can meet the school administrator licensure requirements in their area. As of 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that elementary and secondary school principals had a median salary of $95,310, and a projected growth rate of 4% over the next ten years, which is lower than the national average.

School Superintendent

Superintendents are the top-level administrators for school districts in the U.S., managing all the public schools from elementary to high school within their district. Like principals, they often must have previous teaching experience, and most will have worked as principals at some point as well. Superintendents are normally required to have at least a master's degree, although some positions may prefer a doctor of education instead. In most states, superintendents must be licensed, and often use the same administrator license as principals. Their job duties include budgeting, communicating with government agencies such as a state's department of education, and ensuring educational goals for students are set and reached. According to payscale.com, the average salary for school superintendents is $115,793.

Post-secondary Academic Deans

Academic deans work at universities and community colleges, managing the affairs of either the entire institution, or particular schools within the institution, such as a school of medicine. Their responsibilities consist of managing the affairs and budgets of their academic area, and may involve meeting with professors and students to address concerns. Like with principals, deans are often promoted from within the relevant department, and applicants must, at the very least, have some level of work experience in a post-secondary institution. That may include college professors, or accomplished administrative personnel within the office. A master's degree is often the minimum level of education accepted, with doctorates preferred. BLS data from 2018 indicates that post-secondary education administrators, the category to which academic deans belong, had a median annual salary of $94,340. Job growth for post-secondary administrators over the period from 2018-2028 is expected to be 7%, which is slightly higher than the national average.

University Registrar

Registrars are education administrators who handle records and registration of students attending the college or university. They handle duties such as scheduling courses, verifying that students meet graduation requirements, and produce transcripts. Because they are not directly responsible\ for the education of students, registrars are not usually required to have any kind of teaching experience, although they may need experience working mid-level or entry-level positions within a registrar's office. Registrars, like academic deans, are considered post-secondary education administrators, and thus the BLS expects them to see similar job growth. Payscale.com indicates that the average salary for university registrars is $55,514.

FAQs About Master's in Education Administration Degree Programs

Find answers to commonly asked questions about master's in education administration programs below.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master’s in Education Administration?

Most students complete a Master of Education in education administration in about 12 to 24 months, depending on whether they enroll full time or part time. Program length may also depend on internship or practicum requirements, state licensure components, and whether courses are offered year-round. Online programs often provide flexible pacing options that allow working educators to balance coursework with professional responsibilities.

Are There Any Accelerated Programs?

Some colleges offer accelerated formats that allow you to complete your degree in about one year. These programs typically follow an intensive schedule and may run courses consecutively without long academic breaks. If you are looking for a faster pathway into education administration, you may want to explore a one-year online master's program, which is designed for working professionals who want to move into leadership roles quickly.

Does a Master’s in Education Administration Lead to Principal Licensure?

Many programs are structured to meet state requirements for principal or administrative licensure, but requirements vary by state. You may need to complete specific coursework, pass certification exams, and fulfill supervised field experience hours. Before enrolling, it is important to verify that the program aligns with your state’s education department standards.

Is a Master’s in Education Administration Worth It?

This degree can help you qualify for leadership roles such as principal, assistant principal, or district administrator. In addition to career advancement, you may gain skills in budgeting, staff supervision, curriculum planning, and school operations. For educators who want to influence school policy and improve student outcomes at a broader level, the degree can provide a clear path forward.