With so many options to choose from, the careers available in education management can fit into the personal and professional goals of education specialists for all levels and areas. A background and degree in education with an emphasis on management is helpful for gaining the knowledge needed to best set up processes and systems to help students be successful.
Education Management Overview
For most future professionals looking forward to a career in education management, completing a master’s degree will likely be a preferred or required qualification. In a master’s in educational management program, students learn about a number of issues within the field. Many of the courses center on community relations, ethics in education, diversity in education, developing curriculum and programs, legal issues, financial reporting and budgeting, and supervision of staff and students.
In addition to these courses, students in a graduate degree program to enter into education management will often also complete traditional management related classes. These courses might include accounting, technical writing, public relations, and conflict resolution.
Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education
Having qualifications in education management enables professionals to fill many needs and positions within various levels of education. At the pre-secondary levels of education, specialists in this area might pursue careers in the administration of schools and districts, including assistant principal, principal, dean of students, and superintendent positions. More information on skills and qualifications that are helpful can be found at the School Superintendents Association website.
Early childhood, elementary, and secondary schools also employ specialists to oversee the development and implementation of various programs, from special education to gifted studies to teacher training and professional development. Education management is a helpful start for positions in this area. Curriculum developers also benefit from a background in education management.
After high school graduation, many people go on to complete degree or certification programs at community colleges, universities, or vocational training schools. Education managers develop the programs, departments, and services that undergraduate and graduate students need to complete these studies.
Like pre-secondary education, skill in management specific to the educational field is helpful for administrative type positions within an organization. Some examples of positions are dean of students, academic division or department chair, and executive level careers such as vice president, provost, and president. In each, education managers will work closely with students, staff, and faculty.
Other departments outside of academics also require management. Education managers qualify for positions in departments such as financial aid, student services, testing and disability accommodations, and human resources. Management skills in budgeting and scheduling are helpful for working with all areas of education management.
Online and Traditional Institutions
In both online and traditional in-seat formats, educational institutions need qualified professionals to head up various departments. In addition, many institutions also employ positions such as director of operations and faculty manager.
A career in education offers many personal and professional rewards. With a diverse possibilities for working with students, staff, teachers, and districts, the careers available in education management can help all educators find a position that is the best fit for skills, experience, and goals.