A Certificate in School Administration is your key to becoming an educational leader. Research shows that there are over 800,000 education administrators in the U.S. that work in a broad range of public and private educational institutions. Read more to learn how a school administration certificate will benefit your career.
What are the State Requirements?
Every state has its own licensure requirements for school administrators, such as principals. Most states require that school administrators complete graduate level training, such as a Master’s degree, and pass an examination for state licensure. In fact, more and more states are also requiring on-the-job training and continuing education courses for licensed principals. However, principals in private schools may not be required to obtain any state certification.
What are the Prerequisites?
Aspiring school administrators should take a variety of courses to prepare them for educational administration. The curriculum of a school administration degree includes classes in:
- school law
- budgeting
- educational politics
- counseling
- educational leadership
- community relations
- curriculum design
- curriculum development
- curriculum evaluation
What is the Typical Background of a School Administrator?
The typical candidate for a school administration certificate has an educational Master’s degree and direct work experience. This includes previous work as a teacher or educational administrative personnel, for example, an adviser, librarian, recruiter or financial aid counselor. Keep in mind that most public schools require a master’s degree in educational leadership or administration. Certain private schools may only require a bachelor’s degree, but they are rare.
What Skills are Needed?
School administrators share similar qualities and characteristics that help them excel in their job. For example, school administrators should have excellent prioritization and time management skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are needed to interact with a variety of people, including students, parents, teachers and government employees. School administrators also have to be organized, motivated and dedicated to solving problems and adapting to change.
What are the Possible School Administrator Careers?
While a school administration certificate enables you to become a principal or superintendent, there are many other career paths at different educational facilities that become available with this certification. These career paths include curriculum supervisor, preschool director and district administrator. The highest level of career extends to college president, executive director and chief academic officer.
How Much does a School Administrator Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elementary, middle and high school principals typically make up to $90,000 per year. In fact, the lowest 10 percent earned approximately $60,000 and the top 10 percent earned over $130,000 per year. Don’t forget that principals work all year round and during the summer prepare for the upcoming school year through personnel, administrative and maintenance tasks.
School administrators play an active role in the education and development of children, youth and adults. Every day, they deal with bureaucratic problems and a weakening educational infrastructure in order to prepare students for success in life. A Certificate in School Administration is the best way to start your career as an educational leader.
