Education Administrators, Postsecondary
Education administrators at postsecondary institutions plan and direct student instruction, academic programs, and campus services. They work at universities, colleges, and community colleges, handling everything from curriculum development to student support systems. The role involves managing budgets, staff, and operations across academic and administrative departments.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against education administrators, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves meetings with faculty about program requirements, reviewing student enrollment data, and addressing operational issues. Administrators might develop new degree offerings, oversee hiring and training of staff, coordinate with other departments on resource allocation, and handle student appeals or concerns. They also manage budgets, attend board meetings, and respond to accreditation requirements. Tasks shift between strategic planning and urgent day-to-day problem-solving.
Who this work suits
Holland code SEC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy building organizations and motivating groups toward shared goals, and you're comfortable with leadership and decision-making. You work well with diverse stakeholders—faculty, students, and staff—and find satisfaction in improving how institutions operate and serve people.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $109,840 | $139,640 | $183,360 | 7,280 |
| New Jersey | $104,350 | $131,570 | $169,760 | 4,100 |
| Massachusetts | $96,080 | $128,970 | $171,900 | 9,120 |
| Delaware | $104,410 | $128,570 | $175,240 | 360 |
| Wyoming | $108,110 | $127,960 | $137,810 | 120 |
| Washington | $102,340 | $127,630 | $167,850 | 2,140 |
| South Dakota | $99,890 | $126,160 | $175,780 | 240 |
| California | $94,440 | $125,460 | $169,550 | 14,870 |
| Wisconsin | $101,860 | $124,960 | $162,320 | 1,190 |
| Connecticut | $92,230 | $123,190 | $169,560 | 2,100 |
| Virginia | $85,600 | $120,840 | $172,480 | — |
| Oregon | $86,010 | $120,110 | $174,630 | 2,790 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Research Administrator (CRA) — Research Administrators Certification Council
- Certified Pre-Award Research Administrator (CPRA) — Research Administrators Certification Council
- Certified Administrator of School Finance and Operations (SFO) — Association of School Business Officials International
- Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA) — Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against education administrators, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 11-9033.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.