Educational leadership involves shaping school culture, influencing policy and encouraging innovation that extends far beyond traditional principal roles. The online Master of Science (M.S.) in Educational Leadership program at St. Thomas University (STU) equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in education.
Career paths in this field span K-12 administration, higher education, non-profit leadership, government agencies and corporate learning environments. The demand for qualified leaders who can drive systemic change and innovation continues to grow due to the increasing use of new technology, a greater need for supportive instructional leadership and the rising complexity of today’s educational systems.
What Are the Most Common Educational Leadership Roles?
While job titles such as principal and vice principal are typical in educational leadership, graduates can pursue many additional career paths. Roles such as technology director, department head, athletic director and academic program developer each carry distinct responsibilities and opportunities for impact.
- Principal or vice principal: School principals are top administrators responsible for a school’s curriculum and operations, while vice or assistant principals are senior administrators who support these efforts and manage day-to-day activities.
- Department head: Department heads manage a specific academic department, monitor compliance, manage budgets and serve as liaisons between faculty and senior leadership.
- Director of curriculum: A director of curriculum ensures the school curriculum aligns with state and federal standards, collaborates with teachers and drives initiatives that improve student learning outcomes.
- Athletic director: This administrative role oversees school or district athletic programs, including hiring and evaluating coaches, scheduling games and events, managing budgets, and supporting student-athlete development.
- Academic program developer: An academic program developer designs, evaluates and implements educational programs and curricula based on institutional needs and market trends. They develop course content and make sure that programs align with an institution’s goals and standards.
- Technology director: Technology directors guide strategy for schools or districts, manage IT staff, develop new technology plans and policies, oversee data security, and provide technological resources and training for students and educators.
How Much Can You Earn With a Master’s in Educational Leadership?
Salaries vary widely based on role, geographic location and employer. School principals typically earn more than curriculum specialists or program developers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elementary, middle and high school principals earned an average annual salary of $104,070 in 2024.
Geographic location can significantly impact earning potential. Rural areas tend to offer lower wages than major metro areas such as New York, Chicago or Los Angeles. Experienced professionals and those with additional certifications often earn more. An in educational leadership master’s degree can meaningfully increase your earning potential by qualifying you for higher-level administrative roles and advancing your career trajectory.
What Skills Do Educational Leadership Programs Develop?
An M.S. in educational leadership program strengthens a range of essential skills. Each of these professional competencies is designed to support student success across multiple roles:
- Strategic planning and organizational management: Develop long-term plans aligned with institutional goals and manage day-to-day challenges effectively
- Data-driven decision making and assessment: Use and analyze data to make informed choices about instruction, budgeting and resource allocation
- Policy development and implementation: Gain a strong understanding of educational policy and learn to design and implement effective, compliant strategies to achieve positive student and teacher outcomes
- Budget management and resource allocation: Analyze and manage budgets, strategically allocate resources and plan funding for staffing, programs and new technologies
- Stakeholder communication and community engagement: Strengthen emotional intelligence and communication skills to build trust and collaboration among educators, families and community partners
- Change management and innovation leadership: Lead organizational change, navigate new technologies and create a clear vision for improving educational outcomes
Is a Master’s in Educational Leadership Worth It for Career Advancement?
If your goal is to pursue a career in educational leadership, a master’s degree is often a required credential for higher-level administrative positions. It accelerates your career progression and expands your opportunities within and beyond school settings.
Building a strong professional network, attending conferences, seeking mentors, and participating in professional organizations and events can further enhance your career mobility. STU’s flexible online format allows you to learn and earn your degree while continuing to work as an educator, supporting both immediate and long-term career goals.
Become an Educational Leader and Make a Difference Today
STU’s M.S. in Educational Leadership online degree opens the doors to wide-ranging and meaningful career opportunities. Roles such as principal and vice principal, athletic director and curriculum leader are all potential pathways with this graduate-level degree.
This program prepares graduates for careers in education, corporate training and government agencies. You will not only advance professionally but also make a significant impact on the future of learners and the communities you serve.
Learn more about STU’s online Master of Science in Educational Leadership program.
