A Master’s in Educational Leadership is a popular degree choice for those interested in pursuing careers as school superintendents, heads of school or principals. However, the knowledge and experience gained in this degree program can also help one be qualified for several other positions both in the education field and in the business field. According to Concordia University, many people choose to pursue a master’s degree in the field of educational leadership because they want to make a difference in the lives and education of children, to renew their commitment to the field of education and to become a school leader. The following career options are available for those who have a master’s degree in the field of educational leadership.
School Principal
Many with advanced degrees in educational leadership eventually pursue positions as school principals. The education and experience received as part of the degree program helps to qualify individuals to lead private, charter and public elementary and secondary schools. Principals are often required to work with students, manage staff, prepare budgets, set school policies and improve the school’s curriculum and test scores.
School Board Member
In some school districts, a school board member is a full-time position rather than a volunteer elected position. In these districts, school board members are involved in developing policies and education reform that directly impacts the local school district. School board members are required to work closely with the superintendent and principal in order to improve the educational programming offered at the school and increase the school’s positive outcomes. In addition, school board members are often required to give input on the hiring and firing of school personnel, as well as solve significant problems that occur within the district.
Non-profit Organization Director
There are a variety of non-profit organizations in the United States and around the world that focus on education. A master’s degree in educational leadership may qualify one to work at, lead or even found a non-profit organization that focuses on a specific issue, such as providing education to children living in a third world country, improving test scores at urban schools and improving graduation rates in low-income school districts.
Department Director
School leadership positions do not necessarily have to involve leading the entire school. Those with graduate degrees in educational leadership may be qualified to act as a department chair in a private elementary or high school, as well as at the university level. In addition, graduates may be qualified for careers as athletic directors, curriculum directors or department deans.
Teacher
Many of those who pursue degrees in educational leadership are already licensed teachers who have spent years in the classroom. However, a graduate degree in leadership can help give the teacher a new perspective on education, as well as help the teacher develop new skills to keep their students engaged and learning. Graduate students in educational leadership are often required to take courses on educational research, contemporary educational thought and theories of teaching and learning. All of these areas are essential for classroom teachers and graduate level coursework can provide teachers with a wealth of new knowledge which can immediately be applied in the classroom.
For those in the field of education, pursuing a graduate degree in educational leadership can help provide the education and experience necessary to qualify the individual for leadership positions within the school and district. In addition, a master’s in educational leadership can also offer current teachers the latest research and information available on learning theories and research in order to help teachers be highly effective in today’s diverse learning environment.
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