A degree in education leadership prepares a person to work in an administrative capacity at a school or university. It is a degree that could lead a person into a number of different professions depending on the individual’s interests and whether the person wants to pursue a master’s or a doctorate degree.
Elementary and Secondary Education
Many people with this type of degree want to work as school principals or school superintendents. Most often, the person might start out as a classroom teacher and return to school to pursue a degree in education leadership. This could lead to a position as assistant principal, department head or another type of administrative job before moving on to become a principal.
School principals are responsible for all aspects of running a school, including budgeting, hiring staff, coordinating curriculum and managing teachers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this career will have an average growth rate in the years ahead. However, if there is a surge in enrollment, more schools may open, and this would lead to more positions. School superintendents have similar responsibilities, but they are responsible for the entire school system instead of just one school.
University Education
People with degrees in education leadership might also go on the work at the university level. They might become deans or department heads. As is the case with becoming a school principal or superintendent, these are generally not entry-level positions. A combination of work experience and education is usually necessary to move into these jobs. A person might, therefore, begin as a lower-level administrator before moving on to become a department head. Department heads are responsible for managing staff and setting the departmental goals. The focus of the dean of students would primarily be student life. The degree might also be part of the preparation to work as an athletic director.
Another potential career at the university level for someone with this type of degree is working as a university registrar. Registrars are responsible for the maintenance of student records and need to be proficient with technology. A registrar might start out working in student affairs or admissions before moving into this position.
Related Fields
There are also plenty of opportunities for people who do not wish to work in a school setting. Some of these opportunities might also be more in reach for those who are interested in education leadership but who do not want to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree. Individuals holding this type of degree could go to work in private industry. Many businesses need someone with a background in education administration to be in charge of training and continuing education for employees. Working for advocacy organizations or other educational nonprofits is another possibility. These positions might be focused on setting education policy. The degree can prepare people for a variety of other administrative positions both in and out of schools.
Many people are interested in education but want to work in a position that is outside of the traditional classroom. They may be more interested in education policy, overseeing a curriculum or working directly with teachers. A degree in education leadership provides these and many more opportunities.
Related Resources:
- 50 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Education Administration
- How Does a Master’s in Leadership Differ From an MBA?
- What Can You Do with a Master’s in Leadership?
- Who Should Consider a Master’s in Leadership?
- 5 Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Leadership
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- Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Leadership Online Programs
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- What is Education Leadership?