Educational Administration Degree Program and Career Education

Education administrators include principals, vice principals, deans of faculty, deans of admissions, and department chairs. They oversee the direction and day-to-day management of child care centers, preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, colleges and universities. Unlike teachers, administrators work year-round, setting goals for the school, teachers, and students; hiring and evaluating teachers and staff; meeting with teachers and parents; overseeing school testing standards; and providing guidance to students. They also oversee school activities, art and music programs, counseling, food programs, and school health clinics.

Individuals interested in a career in education administration should possess strong leadership skills, be able to communicate clearly, and be organized and efficient. They should be decisive, flexible, and patient, and most of all they should enjoy working with young people.

Education, Training and Degrees in Educational Administration

Nearly all principals, assistant principals, and school district superintendents are required to have a master's degree, usually in education, administration, or education administration. Programs in education administration generally include courses in curriculum development, school law, and personnel administration. Administrators who manage school-counseling programs typically have a master's degree in school counseling.

Some schools are beginning to require that administrators have an MBA, and some positions require a doctoral degree (Ph.D.or Ed.D.). In addition, administrators usually must go through a certification process administered on the state level.

Find more information about online degrees, certificates, and diplomas in Education.

Explore Career Opportunities in Educational Administration

While school administrators can go by a number of different titles and perform numerous functions, below are a couple of the most common administration positions.

Childcare Director/Preschool Principal
Childcare directors and preschool principals plan, coordinate, and oversee the educational activities and policies of a preschool. They set education standards and goals, establish policies, meet with parents and staff, allocate funds, hire personnel, and oversee instructional methods and program content.

Elementary or Secondary School Principal
Elementary or secondary school principals plan, coordinate, and oversee all activities of the school. They review new programs, oversee budgets, solicit funding, and counsel students. They also meet with students and teachers to discuss policies, activities, or student behavioral or learning problems.