People pursue different types of education administration degree programs based on their career goals. Since college and university professors often become administrators, they might hold a master’s or doctoral degree in their academic subjects, as well as administration certification. Furthermore, an administrator for an elementary or secondary school might hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in educational administration or educational leadership. In contrast, most preschool administrators and childcare center directors do not necessarily need an academic degree, but do generally need to be certified as administrators. Depending on the requirements for a particular position, there are several levels of degree programs from which to choose. Most education administration degree programs can be completed in person or online.
College and university professors who eventually become administrators usually hold master’s or doctoral degrees in the academic subjects that they teach. Then they might complete education administration degree programs to gain additional skills. Other administrators might have advanced degrees in subjects like counseling or finance, depending on their specific job duties. At the graduate level, many education administration degree programs offer the option of combining academic coursework with classes in administrative concepts.
In addition to higher education administration, there are traditional and distance-learning programs for various other careers in educational leadership. For example, there are courses designed specifically for positions ranging from school superintendents to athletic directors. Since certain types of knowledge are usually required for each position, students can take courses in several different fields. Some sample courses might include curriculum development, finance and budgeting, academic policy development, or career counseling.
In the U.S., the qualifications for education administration certification vary according to state regulations. Certification programs typically expect a candidate to hold an advanced degree or have significant experience in a field, such as teaching. Some institutions, such as most colleges and universities, do not require certification or licensure in order to be an administrator. In contrast, secondary school administrators and preschool or childcare administrators are normally required to be licensed by their states. Many administrators are subject to continuing education obligations, as well, in order to maintain their licenses.
The amount of time needed to complete education administration degree programs can vary. Associate’s degree programs can range from one to three years long, and a traditional bachelor’s degree program can usually be completed in four years. A number of online degrees can be earned in two years. Additional time might need to be factored in for completing an internship or other related professional experience.