If you are interested in a career in higher education, you might be planning to earn an advanced degree. It can be a challenge to find information on the best program for you or potential jobs available to graduates. You might be wondering what your options and how you can know if you fit any potential positions before investing in a master’s degree.
This article explores potential career outcomes for graduates of the online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education program from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).
What Is Educational Leadership?
Educational leadership is the industry that focuses on guiding, managing and improving educational institutions. Those in this field work to improve quality, academic outcomes, performance and operations of colleges and universities. They play crucial roles in shaping the academic environment for students and the institution itself.
Given their importance to academic quality, student success, institutional performance and community efforts, educational leaders need the following skills, according to Indeed: management, resource utilization, communication organization, teamwork and problem solving.
Careers in Educational Leadership
An M.A. Educational Leadership – Higher Education degree opens up a myriad of career opportunities. This specialized degree equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in various administrative and leadership roles within higher education institutions. Whether you like numbers, talking to people, managing tasks or organizing events, you can build a career in higher education based on your preferences.
The following are examples of roles and areas you can pursue with an advanced educational leadership in higher education degree, with salary information current as of April 2024.
1. Administrative Leadership
Administrative leaders oversee educational institutions’ overall operations, making the role ideal for highly organized individuals with project management skills. They develop policies, manage budgets and coordinate departments to ensure smooth functioning. According to ZipRecruiter, higher education administrative leaders earn an average annual salary of $80,932.
2. Admissions Counselor
Admissions professionals manage the process of recruiting and admitting students. They evaluate applications, conduct interviews and work to attract a diverse and talented student body. College admissions counselors earn an average annual salary of $67,124.
3. Enrollment Management
Enrollment managers focus on strategies to increase student enrollment and retention. They analyze data, develop recruitment plans and implement initiatives to enhance student success. Enrollment managers earn an average annual salary of $86,379.
4. Student Services
Professionals in student services provide support and guidance to students throughout their academic journey. They offer counseling, career services and other resources to promote student well-being and success. Student service specialists earn an average annual salary of $45,730.
5. Student Financial Aid
Financial aid officers help students navigate the costs of attending college. They administer scholarships, grants and loans and ensure that students have access to the financial resources they need to make the most out of college. Financial aid officers earn an average annual salary of $46,094.
6. Alumni Relations
Professionals in alumni relations engage with former students to foster connections and support institutional initiatives. They organize events, communicate with alumni and cultivate relationships to help students build a strong professional network. Alumni relations officers earn an average annual salary of $83,104.
7. Advising
Advisors assist students in navigating their academic pathways, helping them choose courses, majors and career paths that align with their interests and goals. They offer guidance and support to ensure students make informed decisions about their education. Academic advisors earn an average annual salary of $47,454.
FGCU’s Program: A Foundation for Success
Earning an advanced degree in educational leadership with a concentration in higher education provides many professional opportunities. Knowing this, there’s one thing left to do: find the program that offers the affordability, flexibility and course content you need. FGCU’s online M.A. Educational Leadership – Higher Education program has a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from educational policy and organizational leadership to student development.
This means that FGCU’s program can be a great place to begin your higher education career, whether you aspire to lead administrative teams, shape admissions policies or support student success through financial aid and advising.
Learn more about FGCU’s online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education program.
