Education Administrator Offers Competitive Pay And Elevated Responsibility

Are you interested in the education field but feel that the classroom is not for you? In order for educational institutions to operate successfully, it takes competent administrators providing instructional leadership to manage the day-to-day activities in schools, colleges, and universities. If this awesome responsibility appeals to you, then you should consider a career as an Education Administrator.

Education Administrators are responsible for establishing educational goals and standards and the policies and procedures necessary to achieve them. They also develop academic programs and monitor progress as well as motivate teachers and other staff. As if that wasn't enough, Administrators in the educational field prepare budgets and act as public relations agents with parents, prospective students and the community at large.

There are all levels of administration in the field of education. For instance, someone who manages elementary, middle, and secondary schools is called a principal. For colleges and universities, however, there are department heads or chairpersons that specialize in particular fields such as English, Biology, or Mathematics to name a few.

As is true in many fields, the responsibility of administrators has increased in recent years and of course, so has the stress level. Part of this increased stress is having to deal with state and local policymakers as well as the increased accountability for their schools meeting the state and federal guidelines for student performance and teacher accreditations. Also, over 30% of education administrators work over 40 hours per week, often supervising night and weekend activities as well as working year round.

Educational requirements for administrators vary with the setting of the program and the state of employment. A bachelor's degree is required to oversee the administration of preschool programs in public schools, while college and university deans and chairpersons need a master's or doctoral degree. A Ph.D. or Ed.D. will be required for those looking to obtain a position in top student affairs.

While license requirements vary by state, nearly all require either a master's degree or some other graduate-level training. Most states expect principals to be licensed as school administrators, and some demand that candidates for licensure pass a test. Although completion of an accredited program is not a requirement, it may assist in fulfilling licensure requirements.