As the demands on our educational systems continue to expand and evolve, there will be a constant need for quality leadership. Well-prepared administrators who can integrate new technology and find creative solutions to unexpected problems will have a wealth of professional opportunities available to them. By enrolling in the Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership Online program from Arkansas State University, students have the opportunity to “explore different approaches to fostering a safe and diverse learning environment.” This fully online, accredited program offers a specially designed curriculum that can help working teachers become thought leaders in the American education system.
How Can Ed.D. Graduates Shape the Future of Education?
Educators with an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership make hiring and curricular decisions that shape and reshape American school districts every day. They use their research skills and knowledge of educational theory to find innovative solutions to the challenging problems facing today’s teachers and students. They specialize in data collection and program assessment, helping teachers develop the skills required to succeed in the classroom. Ed.D. graduates have significant influence over the future of education. They are responsible for making strategic decisions that will have a lasting effect on the educational landscape in their districts and beyond.
An Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Will Improve Your Career Opportunities.
A recent study cited by Resilient Educator found that, over their professional lifetimes, individuals with a doctoral degree “can earn $3.25 million — around $1 million more than those with a master’s degree.” In addition to the increased earning potential, graduates with an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership have a more diverse and challenging array of professional opportunities available to them. Here are some of the dynamic career fields where Ed.D. graduates typically excel.
Principal
The most common vertical career move for teachers who earn an Ed.D. is building principal. The professional outlook for aspiring principals, who set the tone for the entire school, is highly encouraging. The demand for the role is predicted to increase, which should be a long-term trend as school districts continue to deal with the expected fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Principals have a variety of responsibilities which include:
- Professional development opportunities for teachers
- Curriculum design
- School budget oversight
- Test scores collection, reporting and evaluating
- Student disciplinary issues
A principal with a strong foundation in educational leadership can improve the overall effectiveness of an entire school.
The average yearly salary for a building principal is $98,490.
Post-Secondary Education Administrators
Some Ed.D. graduates transition to a position at the post-secondary level, such as Academic Dean, Registrar or Provost. On a daily basis, postsecondary administrators may be involved in various student and faculty issues, including:
- Enrollment
- Faculty hiring and tenure decisions
- Faculty research
- Graduation ceremonies
Colleges and universities offer diverse educational environments, so there are many fascinating options for individuals interested in post-secondary administration.
The average yearly salary for a Post-Secondary Education Administrator is $97,500.
Training and Development Managers
Recent Ed.D. graduates who want to test the waters outside of education have various opportunities in the private sector. The skills developed while earning an Ed.D. translate directly to the duties of a Training or Development Manager, such as:
- Selecting training materials
- Ensuring that training programs coincide with the organization’s goals
- Educating supervisors on approved training methods
- Assessing the overall effectiveness of existing training programs
While the specific tasks may be similar to that of an educator or administrator in the public school system, a corporate Training or Development Manager typically comes with increased earning potential.
The average yearly salary for a Training and Development Manager is $115,640.
The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University is the ideal program for teachers who want to take on leadership positions in their districts or pursue opportunities in corporate training. A-State offers a flexible and convenient academic calendar, designed to accommodate the unique scheduling demands of current educators who want to continue working while completing their Ed.D.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s Ed.D. in Educational Leadership online program.
Sources:
Resilient Educator: Career Options & Opportunities With an EdD Degree
US Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals