Master’s in Education Administration jobs include roles in a variety of settings in secondary and post-secondary institutions and also government agencies. Career opportunities in this growing field are in demand for individuals with a Master’s in Educational Administration.
For those looking for career opportunities, there is a growing field of career paths to consider. What are some of the best options in this job sector? Here is just a small sample of the many great options for higher education administration careers.
Job Opportunities with a Master’s in Educational Administration
Career opportunities in educational administration and planning include entry level positions at public schools and private organizations. An individual with a graduate education may also find a role at a nonprofit organization.
- Director of Education
- Chief Academic Officer (or Provost)
- Education Administration Coordinator
- Training and Education Consultant
- Human Resources Manager
- Director of Student Affairs
- Professor
- Athletic Director
- Admissions Officer
- Education Consultant
1. Director of Education
As this job’s title suggests, those in this position act as the head managers, or directors, of the education department in a particular school or college. As the department head, this individual must lead overall teaching efforts, direction, campaigns, and so on. In most cases, teachers and their supervisors will even report to this professional. Occasionally a relevant bachelor’s degree is accepted, however, most significant opportunities require a Master of Educational Administration.
National average salary: $128,925 (Salary dot com)
2. Chief Academic Officers (or Provosts)
A Chief Academic Officer (CAO) is a high-level executive in a post-secondary academic institution who is responsible for the educational quality and integrity of the institution. The CAO is the leader of the academic operations of the institution and works closely with the president and provost to ensure the academic mission is upheld.
Many Chief Academic Officers set the academic direction, policies, and standards of the institution. And they oversee the development of new academic programs. They also have responsibility for faculty recruitment, development, and evaluation, as well as for compliance with accreditation requirements.
National average salary: $205,202 per year (Salary dot com)
3. Education Administration Coordinators
The Education Administration Coordinator often works beneath the Education Director discussed above. These professionals essentially coordinate all of the administrative happenings of the education department. Setting schedules, reviewing and altering curriculum to educate students, and coordinating extra-curricular events are among their duties. This role offers a variety of solo and cooperative teamwork opportunities.
National average salary: $62,192 (Salary dot com)
4. Training and Education Consultants
A Training and Education Consultant is a professional who provides advice and guidance to organizations on learning and development programs. The consultant guides the organization on how to create an encouraging learning culture for employees to improve their skills and knowledge. They may also provide advice on how to use technology to enhance learning and development programs.
Consultants often work with management and other key stakeholders to develop comprehensive training and education programs. They may also work with various departments in the organization to ensure programs meet the needs of all employees.
National average salary: $65,649 (Salary dot com)
5. Human Resources Managers
The role of a Human Resources (HR) Manager is to oversee and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. Duties may include recruitment and selection, employee relations, training, payroll and benefits, labor relations, and organizational development.
An HR Manager is responsible for implementing recruitment strategies and initiatives that support the organization’s overall operational objectives. And they work to foster the development and maintenance of good employee relations. The HR Manager may also develop and manage budgets and manage recruitment and selection processes.
National average salary: $115,441 (Salary dot com)

Below are more jobs for graduates with a master’s in Education Administration.
6. Director of Student Affairs
The Director of Student Affairs provides leadership and direction in all areas of student affairs. This includes student development, student services, student activities, student life, and student organizations. The Director oversees any activities at a college or university that exists outside the classroom. Examples are advising, counseling, and management of all student affairs-related programs and services.
As such, the director of student affairs is often the head of the student affairs department at a college or university. Those in this role can look forward to the day-to-day management of student affairs, having a direct and considerably wide-ranging effect on the school and the students it serves.
National average salary: $67,900 (Salary dot com)
7. Professors
Anyone interested in teaching can also apply their Master’s in Educational Administration to such a role. While the advanced offerings of this degree can certainly open a number of teaching opportunities related and even unrelated to educational administration, the most lucrative paths tend to be in the college or university setting.
To teach directly along the lines of educational administration, the prospective professor-to-be can certainly find any number of college-based teaching positions in classes about administration and business in education.
National average salary: $164,693 (Salary dot com)
8. Athletic Directors
An Athletic Director is responsible for the management and oversight of a school or organization’s athletic program. The primary duties of an Athletic Director are recruiting, hiring, and supervising coaches and staff. Additionally, they oversee the budget, schedule events, and implement policies and procedures. They also work to promote the athletic program to the community and alumni and ensure the program is in compliance with any relevant rules and regulations.
National average salary: $64,235 (Salary dot com)
9. Admissions Officers
College Admissions Officers evaluate the applications of prospective students to determine who will be offered admission to the school. They review essays, transcripts, standardized test scores, and other materials to assess the student’s academic potential and their fit with the college. They may also conduct interviews with the students or their families to get a better understanding of their unique backgrounds and experiences. Finally, they make recommendations to the college’s admissions committee to determine who will be offered admission.
National average salary: $108,700 (Salary dot com)
10. Education Consultants
An Education Consultant provides guidance and advice to students and their families to assist them with the educational process. They help students identify their interests, strengths, and weaknesses, and provide advice on which educational paths will best suit their needs. Education consultants can also assist students with selecting the right college or university, preparing for college applications and admission exams, and obtaining financial aid. They also provide career counseling services to help students make informed decisions about their futures.
National average salary: $106,801 (Salary dot com)
11. Director of Alumni Relations
Alumni Affairs Director develops and implements alumni engagement strategies, organizes alumni events, fundraising events, and builds relationships with alumni.
National average salary: $86,903 (Salary dot com)
12. Administrative Services Managers
An Administrative Services Manager oversees the daily operations of a higher education office. Job duties include budgeting, scheduling, personnel management, and ensuring the efficient operation of the office.
National average salary: $146,142 (Salary dot com)
13. Career Services Directors
A college Career Services Director provides career services to college students and alumni. They help students explore career options, develop resumes, and connect with employers.
National average salary: $86,338 (Salary dot com)

What Is a Master’s Degree in Education Administration?
A Master’s Degree in Education Administration is a postgraduate degree program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in educational professions. This master’s program focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage, lead, and oversee the operations and activities of schools, universities, and other educational institutions. An educational leadership degree is an excellent path to career advancement.
Courses in this program may include educational policy, finance and budgeting, school law, curriculum design, educational research, and leadership and management. Graduates of this program can pursue careers such as school principals, school district administrators, and directors of educational programs.
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Education Administration (MEd)?
With a Master’s in Higher Education Administration, you can pursue several careers. These include becoming a school administrator, a college administrator, an education policy analyst, an education consultant, a curriculum specialist, a school district superintendent, or a state education department administrator.
You can also use your degree to pursue research or teaching positions in higher education. Finally, you may use your degree to gain entrance into a doctoral program in education, which will open up even more opportunities for you.
What Skills Do You Need to Work in Education Administration?
In addition to an education administration degree, individuals who work in Education Administration also need additional skills.
Leadership: Education administrators must have the ability to lead a team of people and effectively manage large groups of students, faculty, and also staff.
Communication: Education administrators must have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders. These include students and parents to district administrators and also elected officials.
Strategic Planning: Education administrators need to possess strong strategic planning skills to ensure that school and district goals are met.
Problem-Solving: Education administrators must be able to quickly analyze problems and develop solutions.
Organization: Education administrators must be able to successfully organize and also manage multiple tasks and duties.
Technology: Education administrators must be proficient with the latest technologies, such as learning management systems and student databases.
Budgeting: Education administrators must have the ability to develop and manage budgets in order to ensure that school and district goals are met.
Interpersonal Skills: Education administrators must also possess strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with all stakeholders.
How Much Can You Make with a Master’s in Education Administration?
The exact salary you can make with a master’s in Higher Education Administration will vary significantly depending on the job you are applying for, your level of experience, and your geographical location. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for education administrators is $96,910.
It is also important to note that salaries for education administrators may be higher or lower depending on the type of school or institution where they work. Below are the median annual wages for postsecondary education administrators in the top industries in which they work.
School Type | % Employed | Salary |
---|---|---|
Colleges, universities, professional schools | 81% | $98,180 |
Junior colleges | 12% | $94,120 |
What is the Job Outlook for Postsecondary Education Administrators?
Great news, the job outlook for postsecondary education administrators with a master’s degree is promising. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects employment of postsecondary education administrators to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than all occupations. This growth is due to an increasing number of students enrolling in postsecondary educational programs.
Is a Master’s in Education Administration Worth It?
Educational administration is all about the management of the often publicly unknown, behind-the-scenes happenings in schools, colleges, training centers, and other educational enterprises. Those working in this sector truly do turn the gears that keep education alive and well for the next generation. So, for prospective students interested in Educational Administration career opportunities, there is a whole world from which to choose.
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