EDUCATION ADMINISTRATORS

Nature of the Work

Smooth operation of an educational institution requires competent administrators. Education administrators provide direction, leadership, and day-to-day management of educational activities in schools, colleges and universities, businesses, correctional institutions, museums, and job training and community service organizations. Education administrators set educational standards and goals and aid in establishing policies and procedures to carry them out. They develop academic programs; train and motivate teachers and other staff; manage guidance and other student services; administer recordkeeping; prepare budgets; handle relations with parents, prospective students, employers, or others outside of education; and perform numerous other activities.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Education administrator is not usually an entry leveljob. Many education administrators begin their careers in related occupations, and prepare for a job in education administration by completing a master's or doctoral degree. Because of the diversity of duties and levels of responsibility, their educational backgrounds and experience vary considerably and usually must gain experience in a related field.

Since much of an administrator's job involves interacting with others, from students to parents to teachers, they must have strong interpersonal skills and be effective communicators and motivators. Knowledge of management principles and practices, gained through work experience and formal education, is important.

Job Outlook

Substantial competition is expected for prestigious jobs as education administrators. Many teachers and other staff meet the education and experience requirements for these jobs, and seek promotion. However, the number of openings is relatively small, so generally only the most highly qualified are selected. Candidates who have the most formal education and who are willing to relocate should have the best job prospects.

Employment of education administrators is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Most job openings, particularly for principals and assistant principals, are likely to result from the need to replace administrators who retire. Additional openings will be created by workers who transfer to other occupations.

Earnings

Salaries of education administrators vary according to position, level of responsibility and experience, and the size and location of the institution. In 1993, salaries ranged from $45,000 for Assistant principals in elementary schools to $182,000 for medical schools deans.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the following organizations:

American Federation of School Administrators, 1729 21st St. NW., Washington, DC 20009.

American Association of School Administrators, 1801 North Moore St., Arlington, VA 22209.

The National Association of Elementary School Principals, 1615 Duke St., Alexandria, VA 22314-3483.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals, 1904 Association Dr., Reston, VA 22091.

National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, 1875 Connecticut Ave. NW., Suite 418, Washington, DC 20009-5728.

American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, One Dupont Circle NW., Suite 330, Washington, DC 20036-1171.

