The work of education management and administration is rewarding. Professionals in this field can have a high level of influence over generations of elementary, secondary, and post-secondary students. Every year there are more and more private companies committed to developing cutting-edge technology which will help students all over the world learn and process information more efficiently. Educational organizations like schools, nonprofits, private companies, and governmental organizations all depend on well-trained managers and administrators who can create and maintain systems, policies, and personnel. But how does one get a start in the world of education? What are the requirements for being successful in this field? Here are some of the critical areas to focus on when considering a career in education management.
Education
A professional's education is the single most crucial factor when considering a position in education management. Most public and private school teachers need only achieve an undergraduate degree and receive certification to enjoy a career of instructing students in the classroom. Some educators find they would enjoy leading a team of educators and so they partake in a higher level of education to receive training in education management. One of the best master's programs at this level is the online master's in education management as it offers many advantages for the working educator. Distance learners can use evenings and weekends to complete all coursework, and those with less-demanding schedules can often double up on courses and complete their degree at a faster pace. Many of the nation's top business schools are sensitive to educators seeking a degree like this and offer flexible course scheduling and excellent accessibility through email and curriculum software.
Experience
There are two main thoroughfares which a person will take to get to the education management level; some will work in the classroom as certified teachers and others will progress through their careers in administrative settings. Lower level office workers will often gain valuable experience by working on staff in an office setting and then move up through the ranks to eventually become an administrator. While these professionals may not possess a formal degree in education, they may have knowledge and experience in finance, marketing, accounting, or management. When it comes to leadership, there is just no substitute for experience.
Skills
Some are blessed with natural abilities, and the rest of us need to be taught! The importance of training for management and administration within education is why so many colleges and universities now offer stellar degrees in the field. Common courses found within these programs include Curriculum Planning, Organizational Behavior, Decision-Making, Leadership for Education Administration, and Personnel Management. Students in education management graduate programs are exposed to a curriculum which deals with technical and organizational skills associated with education. As students learn proper time management, complete tasks and work with technology as a grad student, they are forming skills and habits they will rely on for the rest of their professional lives. As there is so much social interaction between students, cohort groups, instructors, and educational mentors, students in higher education also can sharpen their people skills which will serve them well throughout their careers.
As mentioned before, a career in education management and administration can be enriching. It is more than just a stable career choice; it is the opportunity to shape young minds for generations to come.