A Master's Degree in Educational Leadership Results in Several Job Possibilities

Public and private school systems and other academic venues hold many opportunities for individuals who have earned master's degrees in educational leadership. Generally, a bachelor's degree in education and a subsequent teaching position are the stepping stones to the master's in educational leadership. Once a teacher has gained adequate classroom experience, he can advance to the various administrative positions available in the field of education.

School Principal

The principal is the school's leader, setting educational goals and standards. This administrator has the unenviable job of keeping the parents, community, students and staff content. He or she manages the day-to-day activities. The principal hires, observes, and evaluates staff members. They analyze school data and work to ensure that local, state, and national standards are met. The principal is the liaison between the school and district personnel.

Assistant Principal

The assistant-or vice-principal is second in command to the principal of the school. Depending upon the school's size, there might be more than one assistant principal. A person holding this position generally handles matters such as attendance, transportation, teacher scheduling, textbook ordering, and support staff issues. If the school doesn't have a dean, the assistant principal will have a greater hand in disciplining the students. The assistant principal observes and evaluates a portion of the staff members.

Dean of Students

A person with a degree in educational leadership can assume the role of dean of students. It is common to have deans in middle schools and high schools, but not elementary schools. Deans are generally in charge of maintaining discipline at the school, and that's a challenging job. They meet with parents, students, and teachers to devise plans of action when infractions occur. Deans can also supervise and assess teachers.

District Administrator

Those who have held positions as principals of schools often take the next step, advancing to educational leadership roles in the school district. These positions include area and district superintendents and assistants. They oversee assigned schools in the district. They are responsible for evaluating the principals and making sure the schools in their jurisdiction comply with district mandates.

Daycare Director

The supervisor of a daycare center or preschool is usually required to have a degree in educational leadership or administration. This person oversees the day-to-day functions of the center and is often the only administrator. This director hires staff members and supervises all personnel. An important part of the job is ensuring that the facility meets the standards required by the state.

University Department Chairperson

There are many educational leadership positions at the university level. A college professor often gains experience and then moves into the educational leadership role of chairperson for his particular field of study. Along with teaching classes, they coordinate the instructors' schedules and handle their assessments. As chairperson, this person generally balances the budget for the department.

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