School Administrator Earnings

In May 2004, elementary and secondary school administrators had median annual earnings of $74,190; postsecondary school administrators had median annual earnings of $68,340, while preschool and childcare center administrators earned a median of $35,730 per year. Salaries of education administrators depend on several factors, including the location and enrollment level in the school or school district. According to a survey of public schools, conducted by the Educational Research Service, average salaries for principals and assistant principals in the 2004-05 school year were as follows:

According to the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources, median annual salaries for selected administrators in higher education in 2004-05 were as follows:

Chief academic officer	$127,066
Academic deans:
Business	$120,460
Arts and sciences	110,412
Graduate programs	109,309
Education	107,660
Nursing	100,314
Health-related professions	100,185
Continuing education	91,800
Occupational or vocational education	79,845
Other administrators:
Chief development officer	$114,400
Dean of students	75,245
Director, student financial aid	63,130
Registrar	61,953
Director, student activities	45,636

 

Benefits for education administrators are generally very good. Many get 4 or 5 weeks vacation every year and have generous health and pension packages. Many colleges and universities offer free tuition to employees and their families.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition