7 Great Careers In Educational Leadership

Are you looking for a career that allows you to make a difference in the lives of students? Do you have a passion for education and a drive to lead the charge in improving educational outcomes? If so, a career in educational leadership might be just what you’re looking for. With so many exciting and rewarding opportunities, you’re sure to find a role that fits your skills and interests.

From school principals to superintendents and instructional coaches to college and university deans, the field of educational leadership is filled with opportunities for those who want to make a lasting impact. So, whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, it’s time to discover the exciting world of educational leadership.

  1. School principle

Principals are responsible for creating a positive and productive learning environment. They are responsible for setting policies, developing programs, and ensuring teachers and staff have the resources they need to support student success. They also work closely with parents, community members, and other stakeholders to create a culture of education and promote student achievement.

To pursue a career as a school principal, it is recommended that you earn a master’s degree in educational leadership or a related field. If you are already working as a professional, you may consider enrolling in an educational leadership program online. It is designed to enhance your leadership competencies, with courses delivered in an accelerated and flexible format that is well-suited for working educators.

As a school principal, you can expect to earn a salary of up to $98420. With a projected growth rate of 5% between 2021 and 2031, school principals will have equal demand as all other occupations.

  1. Curriculum Developer

A curriculum developer is responsible for creating and designing educational programs and materials for students of all ages. This may involve developing lesson plans, creating assessment tools, and working with teachers and administrators to implement new programs.

To be a curriculum developer, you should have a master’s degree in education or a related field, plus academic or managerial experience. You should also have strong research and analytical skills and the ability to design and implement educational programs.

According to PayScale, the median salary for curriculum developers is $69337 per year. The field is expected to grow as demand for new and innovative educational programs continues to increase.

  1. College Dean

A college dean is responsible for overseeing the operations of a college or university, working closely with faculty, staff, and administrators to support student success.

College deans are responsible for setting policies, managing budgets, and ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

A college dean needs a doctorate in education or a related field, in addition to extensive teaching and administrative experience. Depending on the college or university you work for, certification requirements may also apply. The average salary of a college dean is $99371 per year.

  1. Educational Consultant

An educational consultant is a professional who offers guidance and assistance to educational institutions, educators, and organizations. They work to enhance student performance, design educational programs and organize professional development workshops for teachers and administrators.

A graduate degree in education or a related field is required for educational consultants, as well as prior teaching or administrative experience. Some organizations require certification as well. Communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, with the ability to provide effective advice.

According to PayScale, the average salary of educational consultants is around $62515 per annum. The demand for educational consultants is expected to increase as schools and organizations are continuously looking for ways to improve student achievement.

  1. School Board Member

A school board member is responsible for making decisions that impact the education of students in their community. This may involve setting policies, managing budgets, and working with school administrators to support student success.

As a school board member, you will typically need to meet certain residency and eligibility requirements and be elected by voters in your community. There is no specific educational requirement for this role, but many school board members have a background in education, business, or community leadership. School board members are usually volunteers and do not receive a salary.

However, serving on a school board can be a rewarding experience, as it allows you to make a difference in the lives of students in your community and positively impact the education system.

  1. Superintendent

A superintendent is responsible for overseeing the operations of a school district, working closely with school board members, administrators, and teachers to support student success. Superintendents are responsible for setting policies, managing budgets, and ensuring students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

With the superintendent position, you’ll be at the forefront of educational leadership and charged with driving student success on a grand scale. You’ll typically need to earn a doctorate in education or a related field to take on this challenge. Your success as superintendent will be built on excellent communication skills, dynamic leadership abilities, and an unwavering commitment to collaboration.

According to PayScale, the median salary for superintendents is a remarkable $134168 per year, and the demand for strong, effective educational leadership continues to grow.

  1. Instructional Coordinator

An instructional coordinator oversees and coordinates educational programs and initiatives within a school or district. This may involve developing and implementing new programs, working with teachers and administrators to improve existing programs, and monitoring student progress.

To take on this important role, you’ll need a master’s degree in education or a related field, along with experience in teaching or educational administration. Depending on your organization, you may also be required to meet specific certification requirements. Your success as an instructional coordinator will depend on your ability to research and analyze information effectively, communicate with others, and lead with excellence. Collaboration, problem-solving skills, and budget and resource management are key components of this role.

According to PayScale, the median salary for instructional coordinators is a healthy $61792 per year, and the field is expected to grow as schools seek ways to enhance their educational programs.

Final Thoughts

The field of educational leadership is crucial for the success and growth of schools, colleges, and universities. So, if you are passionate about education and want to make a positive impact, a career in educational leadership may be the perfect fit for you. With a range of careers to choose from and the potential to make a lasting impact, educational leadership offers both personal and professional fulfillment.