The career progression from classroom teacher to school principal represents a significant step into a leadership role. This journey requires dedication, experience and specific academic credentials.
For those who aspire to this position, the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership, Principalship online program from Arkansas State University (A-State) provides an advanced degree. The program can prepare graduates to flourish in their transition from teacher to principal.
The Career Steps to Principalship
The overall progression for an aspiring school leader requires a combination of training and experience. This includes a sequence of academic milestones and professional experience
- Earn a bachelor’s degree: Becoming a principal typically begins with the requirement of a bachelor’s degree. Most aspiring principals start with an undergraduate degree in education or a subject area they intend to teach, such as mathematics or English. This initial degree establishes their expertise in classroom instruction and pedagogy, which is needed when teaching.
- Gain teaching experience: After earning a bachelor’s degree and getting the proper teaching certification, the next step is to gain teaching experience. Most states require a certain number of years of classroom experience, often three to five years, before an educator is eligible for a principal or administrative role. This time spent teaching gives educators a chance to develop communication and organizational skills and build credibility with potential future staff.
- Earn a master’s degree: Earn a Master of Education (M.Ed.) or Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in an administrative field. The typical minimum academic requirement for a principal is a master’s degree. This degree is usually in Educational Leadership or Educational Administration. These graduate programs cover subjects like school law, budgeting, curriculum oversight and instructional supervision, which prepare teachers for the responsibilities they’ll undertake in this new role.
- Obtain licensure/certification: Secure any administrative license or certificate required by the state, which usually involves completing a state-approved principal preparation program and passing a licensure exam.
- Pass a background check: Before becoming a principal, candidates must pass a criminal history and background check, which includes being fingerprinted.
- Apply for principal positions: After meeting all requirements, candidates can begin applying for administrative roles, often starting as an assistant principal to gain more leadership experience.
The Education Specialist Advantage
While a master’s degree often satisfies the academic requirements to become a school principal, an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree – a post-master’s degree – serves as an added benefit. The online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Principalship program from A-State offers advantages that can make a candidate more competitive.
This program, which students can complete in as few as 24 months, provides advanced study beyond the master’s level. Graduates can gain enhanced leadership skills and greater specialization in public school systems. An Ed.S. degree often positions educators for more senior roles and can lead to potentially higher earnings. By providing performance-based activities, Arkansas State’s online program prepares graduates for a variety of leadership roles.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for school principals depend on factors such as experience, location and school level. Principals at the high school level often earn the highest salaries, followed by middle school and then elementary school principals. Candidates should keep in mind that the average salary can also vary depending on whether it’s a public, private or charter school, if it’s a religious or non-religious school, and the number of students enrolled at the school.
- Elementary school principal average salary: $103,900
- Middle school principal average salary: $108,700
- High school principal average salary: $111,100
Becoming a school principal is a significant professional achievement. The opportunity to transition from teaching to a leadership role that influences the entire student body requires meeting academic requirements and gaining valuable experience. The online program at Arkansas State University provides educational progression from bachelor’s to post-graduate degrees so educators can obtain the credentials they need to become school principals.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s online Principalship Ed.S. in Educational Leadership program.