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Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Education 2024 (Inc Salaries)

Find the top 10 highest paying jobs in education for 2024, including salaries, to plan your high-paying career in education.

“Teaching is the profession that teaches all other professions.” 

This quote sums up the important work that teachers do. As an educator, you have the responsibility and power to create real change in your students' lives and positively impact their future.

In addition to being personally fulfilling, a career in education is also professionally rewarding because it comes with what most of us dream of—job security.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the educational instruction and library occupations sector will have about 857,600 job openings yearly in the next few years.

The best part is that the professionals in this sector receive a median annual wage of about USD 54,700 which is higher than most occupations. 

These figures can even go as high as USD 137,300 per year when you land any of the highest paying jobs in Education. Discover what these professions are below.

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Education (Inc Salaries)

1. chief academic officer.

Also called Directors of Education, Chief Academic Offices are critical to the higher education administration.

Their main role is to look after an institution’s academic programs and provide students with the highest quality of Education and optimal learning experience within the institution’s established budget.

They set and maintain the university's academic standards by developing the curriculum and ensuring it complies with the state and federal regulations.

Job Outlook

BLS categorizes this position under the role of postsecondary education administrators. According to their projection, its demand will grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than most teaching occupations.

Educational Requirements

You need a master's degree in Education, administration, or other related fields to apply for this position. However, a college or university may require a higher degree like an EdD. 

Since this position comes with, budgeting and managerial functions, having a BBA or MBA degree can make your application more appealing to employers. 

Salary Information

A Chief Academic Office makes an average salary of USD 137,300 per year. 

2. Academic Dean 

Like Chief Academic Officers, Academic Deans are also considered postsecondary education administrators who play leadership roles critical to maintaining the education system. 

However, their roles come with one key difference.

The Chief Academic Officer oversees the educational program, while the Dean ensures that the academic staff is properly trained to meet the institution's academic goals. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for postsecondary education administrators will increase by 5% for the next few years, which is impressive growth compared to other professions.

Most colleges and universities seek Academic Dean candidates with a doctorate degree. In addition to that, having a business or marketing degree can make your resume more well-rounded and show potential employers that you have a diversified skill set.

On average, an Academic Dean earns an annual salary of USD 128,800 .

3. University or College Professor

Also known as postsecondary teachers, professors teach programs based on their specialized area of research or expertise at an undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Professors also contribute to the academic community by conducting and publishing industry-related research studies. 

A master's degree paired with long years of teaching experience is enough to land you a professor role in community colleges.

However, a PhD is the minimum educational requirement for being a professor in bigger universities.

Since professors are expected to be industry experts, some institutions may only hire educators with work experience in their chosen field.

The need for professors will grow by 8% by 2032. This growth is equivalent to about 118,800 new job openings every year for almost a decade.

University or College Professors make an annual median wage of USD 115,900 .

4. Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal

A school principal is in charge of planning, directing, and managing school operations, student activities, and the academic staff at a primary or secondary education level.

Their goal is to help students enjoy a safe, productive, and conducive learning environment and an engaging school experience.

They are also responsible for setting the school's academic goals and ensuring that the educators have the resources to meet such goals.

There will be about 20, 200 job openings for principal roles every year, which will remain more or less the same until 2032.

After getting a bachelor's degree in Education, you'll also need to secure a teaching certificate, a master’s degree in education leadership or education administration, and a few years of teaching experience.

Some schools or states require a School Administration license for this position, so it's important to check out the requirements in your area before applying.

Lastly, an MBA degree is also valuable to your resume since it will teach you relevant skills, including budgeting, leadership, and staff management.

A School Principal earns an average of around USD 103,300 per year. 

5. Speech Pathologist

A speech pathologist works with clients of all ages with communication, speech, and swallowing disorders.

They offer many therapies to help people boost their reading, writing, and spelling skills. Not only that, but they also provide activities that can enhance memory, organization, critical thinking skills, and attention.  

Moreover, they also help people improve how their voice sounds and how loud they talk.

In addition to speech disorders, they also deal with sucking, chewing, and swallowing issues.

The need for speech pathologists is currently high and is expected to grow by 19% in the next few years. This massive growth equals 13,200 annual job openings in the next decade.

In addition to a bachelor's degree in Education, you'll also need a master's degree in speech-language pathology.

After that, you'll also need certification from the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) to qualify for a speech pathologist position.

Speech pathologists in the US make an average annual salary of  USD 91,000 . 

6. Preschool or Childcare Facility Director

The main responsibility of a Childcare Facility Director is to oversee the preschool and childcare center’s overall operations to uphold the highest quality of early childhood education.

To do this, they supervise the training and monitor the performance of the teaching staff, curate and plan the education programs, implement proper curriculum and budgeting plans, and ensure that the center complies with all state regulations.

Employment for this role is expected to decline by 3% in the next few years.

Despite the decline, this sector will still have about 4,600 job openings annually until 2032. 

The educational requirements to being a Childcare Facility director vary from one state to another. Still, it typically includes a Bachelor's or postgraduate degree, preferably in Early Childhood Education Administration.

Additionally, some states require state licensure and additional training.

A Childcare Facility Director earns an average annual salary of USD 84,400 .

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7. Education Policy Analyst

The role of an Education Policy Analyst is to oversee the current educational system, evaluate how it affects the students and society, and find ways to revolutionize and improve Education.

They analyze the existing educational policies and make research-based recommendations on adjusting them accordingly.

They are also responsible for developing and assessing new policies, implementing, and evaluating their outcomes. 

According to BLS, the demand for policymaking occupations will grow 7% until 2032.

This growth rate means that this sector will have at least 600 job openings yearly for the next few years.

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in Education, education policy, political science, or other social sciences.

In addition to that, you may also need to have at least two years of work experience in a school or an educational non-government organization.

An MBA or BBA degree is also relevant since it will teach you the economic side of policymaking.

The estimated average pay for an Education Policy Analyst is about USD 84,300 per year.

8. Secondary Education or High School Teacher

High School Teachers are the main educators in secondary schools. They teach and guide the students through grades 9 to 12 to equip them with the skills they need to enter college.

Beyond teaching duties, they are responsible for curriculum development, student assessment and grading, classroom management, and communicating with parents.

BLS expects little to no change in the demand for a high school teacher until 2032.

Despite the limited growth, the secondary education industry will still have about 67,100 job openings yearly. 

You need a bachelor's degree in education or education studies. Aside from this, you'd also have to obtain licensure by taking a general teaching certification test.

To make sure your resume stands out, you must also hold a master's degree in Education. 

The annual media average of a High School Teacher is about USD 61, 400 .

9. Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teachers work closely with students who have different types of learning disorders, physical disabilities, and special mental and emotional needs.

This teaching role is focused on giving the right support and ensuring that the learning environment and experience will meet the student's special needs.

They would need to work alongside other support-based professionals like a speech therapist or pathologist, occupational therapist, or school psychologist to provide these.

The overall employment for special education teachers is projected to have little to no change in the coming years.

But even with the limited growth potential, this sector will still have about 33,500 job openings yearly until 2032.

You need a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education to teach students in this sector. This single requirement is sufficient for a teaching job in private schools.

On the other hand, public schools would ask for additional requirements like state licensure, background checks, and Praxis II teaching exam results.

Special Education Teachers typically earn a median wage of USD 66,100 per year.

10. Instructional Coordinator

Also known as Curriculum Designers, Instructional Coordinators are responsible for designing, evaluating, and implementing school curriculums and teaching standards.

Their main goal is to ensure student success by providing them with developmentally appropriate teaching materials and methods.

Their daily activities include designing curriculums and selecting educational materials based on student data and performance.

They are also in charge of teacher training to ensure their teaching methods meet established academic goals.

Lastly, they develop and implement tools to assess existing or new curriculums.

The need for Instructional Coordinators is projected to grow at least 2% , meaning it will have 19, 200 job openings yearly until 2032.

To become an Instructional Coordinator, you need a master's degree and work experience teaching or in a school administration position.

If you plan to work in a public school, you must also secure licensure by passing a state-issued examination.

Instructional Coordinators make an average earning of USD 54,000 every year.

Being in the education sector places you in the best position to make a significant impact in the future, not just on the students but also on society and this country.

The best part is that it also offers job security because the teaching industry is here to stay as long as there are students to teach.

However, education jobs currently face limited growth rates, so finding jobs will be more competitive and challenging now than ever.

To stay on top of the game, you need to show future employers that you can bring value to their organizations, and earning an MBA or BBA degree is one way to do that.

If you're ready to advance your education career, check out what Nexford offers. They are a US-accredited distance learning education institution determined to provide you with a next-level learning experience in the comforts of your own home.

What will be the highest-paying job in education in 2024?

The highest paying job in education in 2024 will be a chief academic officer. According to Glassdoor, professionals in this sector can earn an annual salary of USD 117,000 up to USD 209,000, with an average of USD 137, 300 .

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, what's the outlook for educational jobs in 2024 and beyond?

The demand growth for education jobs in 2024 and beyond is not as high as all the other occupations.

The highest projected growth rate is about 8% (Professors), while the lowest is -3 % (Childcare Facility Director).

On the other hand, most teaching professions will show little to no change in the upcoming years.

Despite this less-than-average growth potential, the education sector will continue to churn tens of thousands of jobs in the next few years.

Is Education a good career path?

With its limited growth opportunities, majoring in Education can take much work.

However, it’s a challenge worth taking if you’re passionate about shaping the future of society and making a difference in other people’s lives.

Here are some reasons why taking Education is still a good idea:

1. Continuous Growth 

Lifelong learning is an essential part of the education sector since teachers need to be good role models to their students and adapt to the never-ending innovations in the industry. 

2. Numerous Career Options

Aside from teaching and administrative functions, an educational degree also opens the door to different career pathways.

This degree can be your stepping stone to other social science-related occupations like clinical psychologists, admissions specialists, juvenile corrections workers, and many more.

3. Job Security

Even though the demand growth for this sector is not as fast as other occupations, the need for teaching is here to stay.

The education industry is expected to generate as many as 109,000 job openings (for Kindergarten teachers alone) annually.

4. High Job Satisfaction

Getting a front seat in shaping the future of the next generation makes Education a highly rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Learn how to develop the most in-demand skills for your future career!

Discover how you can acquire the most in-demand skills with our free report, and open the doors to a successful career. 

What skills or expertise is required for high-paying jobs in Education?

Here are the top soft skills needed to excel in the field of education:

Communication Skills

Problem-solving

Conflict Resolution

Social and Emotional Intelligence

Cultural Competence

Critical Thinking

On the other hand, you should also be an expert in the following hard skills:

Subject Area Proficiency

Classroom Management

Lesson Planning

Curriculum Development

Educational Software Skills

To know if you have the necessary skills to start and build a lucrative career in education, download our free report here . 

What qualifications are required for high-paying educator jobs?

The qualifications for these high-paying education jobs vary according to state and profession, but these typically include the following:

Bachelor's degree in Education

Industry-specific Master's program

Work experience

Teacher Certification and State Licensure

Administrative positions, such as Chief Academic Officer and Academic Dean, require a doctoral degree. 

Why is it beneficial for educators to gain a BBA/MBA degree?

A bachelor’s and master’s will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to land a teaching position.

But if you want to land the highest-paying jobs, you also need to be well-versed in the administrative, economic, and business side of the education industry, and you can only attain those through an MBA or BBA degree.

With a BBA degree , you can cultivate must-have education soft skills like cultural competence, communication skills, and critical thinking.

On the other hand, an MBA degree can provide you with the business and administrative know-how to navigate organizational and policymaking positions.

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12 Highest Paying Teaching Jobs: What is the Highest Paying Job in Education? [2024 Guide]

Find your perfect value college

Aspiring educators may find themselves in positions that fail to adequately compensate them for their hard work in schools and dedication to teaching students. We’ve helped professionals identify the most lucrative career paths. We’re sharing that list to help you make informed decisions that will align with your employment and financial goals.

Maximizing the Pay Grade: What Teachers Make the Most Money?

For those seeking education leadership roles and the highest paying jobs in the field, positions like superintendent, assistant principal, university or college administrator, postsecondary administrator, and college professor typically offer the most lucrative earnings. Despite requiring advanced degrees and considerable experience, these roles provide more opportunities that command top compensation within educational institutions.

Featured Programs

No one goes into education to become a millionaire, despite the work that goes into becoming a teacher. Whatever the path, the best careers in education are in demand, and earning the higher degrees necessary for higher positions is a good investment .

1. Superintendents

When you are looking into the best profession in education that gets paid the most, you will want to consider the role of a superintendent. A superintendent is a leader for an entire school district and strives to obtain the goals set by the school board in relation to student education.

The career path is a challenge, although this level allows them to advance in their careers and achieve unique goals in various schools.

The salary expectations for a superintendent depend on the state and the local school district. While the exact income differs significantly, you can expect to earn between $98,750 and $156,000 per year. Keep in mind that starting salaries for a superintendent are usually lower than the income you can expect as you gain experience in your district and implement plans for student education.

2. School or Assistant Principals

Searching for the best-paid teaching jobs may result in evaluating the role of a principal or an assistant principal in a local school. A principal’s responsibilities focus on the school’s goals. A principal may meet with parents to discuss specific concerns related to their children, hire new teachers, or engage in teacher development. 

The position may also require administrative skills that focus on ensuring that the school runs smoothly and the curriculum meets the district and state standards. 

A principal must have a master’s degree and five years of teaching experience before taking an exam to qualify for the position and move into the administrative role. An assistant or vice-principal helps the principal keep up with the demands of his or her position as a leader.

Income information:

• While the specific income level may vary, the average income for a principal is around $95,000 per year. The highest-paying principal positions may earn around $70,000 to $138,000 per year. 
• When working as an assistant principal, you can expect a median income of around $88,500 per year. The income range for an assistant principal is between $59,000 and $130,000 per year. 

3. University or College Administrators 

An administrator for colleges and universities focuses on the day-to-day running of the school. The responsibilities of the career path focus on tasks like budgeting, organizing events, appropriate disciplinary action, and public relations. The position focuses on leading the school to ensure that it runs smoothly during normal days and during times of crisis. 

The administrator must have the skills to keep up with the challenges of administration work and leadership roles within the school .

College administrators have a master’s degree or higher in education administration or leadership that allows them to handle the challenges of following local, state, and federal regulations related to post-secondary education.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a university administrator is around $94,340.
• The wage range may vary based on your state and experience level, so you may start with earnings of roughly $61,000 per year.
• The highest-earning administrators for colleges can get paid around $128,000 per year.

4. Postsecondary Education Administrators

While teachers work to focus on instructional delivery and teaching lessons, administrators provide vital leadership and organizational oversight across schools. 

Salary information:

• Despite a starting pay of around $30,100 per year, most postsecondary administrators hold advanced degrees like a master’s in education leadership or related fields.
• The path often involves first securing an advanced degree, followed by entry-level positions, before progressing to top-tier positions that reflect their graduate school training in management. This can get you a pay of up to $187,000 annually.

5. College Professors

When you are looking for the best-paid teaching jobs for your area of interest or specialized skill, then you may consider working as a professor in colleges or universities. A college professor prepares course material, teaches students in a classroom environment, and grades student work. 

A professor needs a minimum of a master’s degree to qualify for a teaching position; however, many schools may also require professors to obtain a doctorate before they qualify for a full-time position.

• The median pay for a college or university professor is around $78,470 per year. 
• Professors can get paid from $39,700 to $175,000 per year. Professors focusing on law tend to make more than professors in other fields or industries.

6. Instructional Coordinators

An instructional coordinator receives high pay because the position focuses on setting the standards for curriculum and teaching within district schools. Instructional coordinators work with principals and teachers to implement the curriculum and then assess the effectiveness of the curriculum among students.

An instructional coordinator has a master’s degree or higher with at least five years of work experience in an administrative or education position. You may be required to obtain a license for your career in some states.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for instructional coordinators is around $64,450 per year. 
• The wage range for instructional coordinators is between $36,300 and $102,200 per year. Expect your earnings to change as you gain experience and improve in your profession.

7. High School Teachers

Becoming one of the highest-paying high school teachers allows you to advance your employment and earn reasonable pay. High school teachers prepare students for graduation by teaching a subject and specialized skills to their students.

High school teachers need a bachelor’s degree and certification or a license in their state. Standards related to licensure differ by state, so you will want to evaluate your state’s standards before you start working.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for high school teachers is $60,320 per year. 
• The income range is between $39,700 and $97,500 per year.

8. Special Education Teachers 

Working as a special education teacher offers a rewarding profession that allows you to teach students with special needs to gain the skills they need for their lives. Special education teachers must adapt educational material to fit their students’ needs and help them with their specific challenges.

Special education teachers need a bachelor’s degree and an appropriate certification or license in their state to work with their students.

• The median income for special education teachers is around $59,780 per year. 
• The wage range for a special education teacher is between $39,600 and $97,000 per year.

9. Middle School Teachers

Working as a middle school teacher means taking on specialized classes and preparing your students for the challenges they will face as they move into high school. The position builds on the previous education of students at the elementary level and focuses on advancing skills to set a stronger foundation.

A middle school teacher needs a bachelor’s degree and a license in their state to start their career and work with students on a specific subject in the classroom.

• The median income of middle school teachers is around $58,600 per year.
• The earnings can be around $39,000 and $93,000 per year.

10. Primary School Teachers

With a bachelor’s degree in education, elementary teachers set the foundation for students to build on as they grow and learn. Unlike a high school teacher, you will teach multiple subjects to your students in a classroom.

Primary school teachers have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education or related subjects. You may also need a state-issued certification.

• The median income for a primary school teacher is around $57,980 per year. 
• The wage range for a primary school teacher is between $37,700 and $95,200 per year.

11. School and Career Counselors

A career counselor focuses on helping and advising students to determine their long-term goals for their future. A school counselor needs a master’s degree in school counseling and must have a state-issued license to work with students.

• The median income for a school or career counselor is around $56,310 per year. 

The earnings range for the position is between $33,600 and $94,600 per year.

12. Librarians

Librarians’ responsibilities extend beyond assisting students in navigating resources. They also manage entire library collections, plan programs, and support faculty with research and lesson planning. However, they are integral to facilitating research and learning at the college level.

Income information: 

• Librarians may not earn as much as teachers providing teaching lessons or those in specialized fields like special education, with a starting income of around $38,000 every year.
• The average salary for a librarian is $51,502 per year.
• These trained professionals can earn up to $71,000 yearly. Their work involves creating efficient access to valuable resources across schools, community colleges, and universities, which justifies their competitive pay.

How We Chose the Highest-Paying Careers in Education

For selecting the best-paid teaching jobs and administrative careers, our methodology was simple consulting Bureau of Labor Statistics data on various positions in the teaching field. From there, we simply arranged jobs in order of average salary at the national level, from highest to lowest. 

Why Are Some Types of Teachers Paid More?

The compensation a teacher receives as a professional is based upon several important factors.

With 15 years of experience in the education sector,  Kelsey Ludeman shares her insights on this topic:

“Salaries in the education arena vary vastly between districts, schools, and universities. Administrators and professors tend to have higher earning power, while classroom teachers often operate at a lower pay scale. Factors that can positively impact income include specialized expertise, additional certifications, location and cost of living, school type, supply and demand, and advanced degrees.”

Earnings for the varying types of jobs in education depend on many components. Early childhood education and elementary education , for instance, are more different than you would expect.

Total compensation includes wages and other benefits, like sick days and health insurance. However, monetary compensation is determined by the following factors:

• Level of education : The education requirements for a teacher include a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in education before they can even apply for their teaching license. It benefits the district through advanced education, and a teacher’s compensation increases when an advanced degree is earned. This becomes a great return on investment . 
• Years in service : Like most occupations, seniority plays a key role in determining one’s level of compensation. Many of the highest-paying careers include university teachers who have been teaching for many years.
• State or district : Because school funding is usually tied to tax revenue, each district within a state will have public school teacher incomes that vary as well. For example, the Aldine Independent School District pays starting employees $61,000 while Conroe ISD jobs offer $60,000 with no experience.
• Supply and demand : Some roles, like special education teachers, require a very specific set of skills and may pay more. For example, the high school culinary arts teacher wage may be higher since the role is hard to fill.

States With the Highest Average Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the list of jobs in the education field with the highest annual compensation packages for teachers (May 2020) includes:

• New York — $85,300
• California — $80,510
• Massachusetts — $80,020
• Alaska — $77,920
• Connecticut — $76,980

Do Higher Salaries Bring More Job Satisfaction for Teachers?

The reality is that for some teachers, higher wages would seem to bring a higher level of satisfaction. It’s one of the non-monetary benefits of education . However, much of that satisfaction is likely to be cloaked in the security that the higher salary brings. 

The concept of job satisfaction is what is known as a social construct — a notion that was crafted (and accepted) by those who occupy society. What makes job satisfaction even more complex is that one’s level of job satisfaction is highly personal. 

Consider the following factors that create satisfied workers across the board: 

• Level of engagement : Whether you want to become a high school teacher or an instructional coordinator, those who find meaning in their work become easily engaged. 
• Respect and appreciation : Many studies have shown that an underappreciated or disrespected employee is more likely to become disgruntled and dissatisfied in a classroom.
• Reasonable and just compensation : Loyal workers expect to be fairly paid for their skill level, their commitment to the school system’s objectives, and their meeting of student education level expectations. 
• Life satisfaction : Studies show that people, who are generally more predisposed to be happy in life, tend to find more satisfaction in their work .

Related Questions

What kind of teachers get paid most.

Teachers in leadership and administrative roles, such as principals and superintendents, tend to command the highest salaries. This is compared to traditional teaching positions that involve teaching materials and lesson planning for students.

Which Level of Teaching Pays the Most?

Roles like college professors, postsecondary administrators, and superintendents overseeing advising students and entry-level positions earn higher salaries than elementary or secondary school teachers. Generally, the higher the level of education and the broader the experience, the more lucrative the teaching positions become.

Having a clear understanding of the highest-paying jobs in education empowers professionals to make strategic decisions regarding their employment trajectories. Whether pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education or considering a transition into the field, being aware of the positions that command top wages allows for better planning and goal-setting.

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• 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Degrees
• 10 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degrees
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Aya Andrews

Editor-in-chief.

Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.

Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.

In addition to her work as an educator, Aya is a devoted mother who is passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive home environment for her children. She is an active member of her community, volunteering her time and resources to support local schools and organizations. Aya is also an avid traveler, and loves to explore new cultures and cuisines with her family.

With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.

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Advance Your Career With One of These 6 Highest-Paying Master’s in Education Jobs

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Do you want to level up your career in education and maximize your earning potential?

With the substantial increase in living costs and the continuing national trend of underpaying educators , pursuing a master’s degree in education may be the next step to unlocking a higher-paying career while staying in the education field.

With the increasing availability of online graduate programs, you can have the flexibility to pursue your master’s in education and work full time. Here is our list of the highest-paying jobs you can do with a master’s in education.

Top 6 Highest-Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Education

Earning a master’s in education can unlock higher pay scales and allow educators to pursue elevated positions, such as instructional coordinator, school principal, and school superintendent.

These are some of the highest-paying jobs in education and their projected average growth rate.

Featured Online Master’s in Education Programs

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1. School Superintendents — $144,940 per Year

• 2024 Median Annual Salary: $144,940
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): Unavailable
• Top-Paying States: California, New York, Illinois, Texas

One career opportunity available to you with a master’s in education is becoming a school district superintendent. As the superintendent, you would work in a school district’s central office. Your responsibilities would include increasing student academic achievement across the district, supervising day-to-day operations, and managing the district’s budget.

This career has great salary potential, especially if you are willing to move around to more competitive areas. Salaries differ regionally.

In Texas, for example, school superintendent salaries can range in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Superintendent’s salaries in the state are also sometimes supplemented by benefits including insurance, pension contributions, and allowances for cars and housing.

2. Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals — $103,460 per Year

• 2023 Median Annual Salary: $103,460
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): -1%
• Top-Paying States: Washington, New York, Connecticut, California, New Jersey

As the head principal of a K-12 school, you typically work year-round because you have a wide array of duties managing the students and school personnel of your building. Principals oversee the development and implementation of the curriculum, class schedules, and the counseling and discipline of students.

You also establish school morale and observe and evaluate staff performance. As a principal in a larger school, you may also have assistant principals who help you carry out some of these duties.

Many educators choose to pursue a master’s in educational administration to become a principal. One bonus to this career path is that immediately after graduating with your master’s degree and fulfilling your state’s various requirements for licensure, you become eligible to apply for a principal job.

The average salary for a K-12 principal is $111,020 with states like New York and California at the higher end of the salary scale.

3. Postsecondary Education Administrators — $102,610 per Year

• 2023 Median Annual Salary: $102,610
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): 3%
• Top-Paying States: New York, Delaware, New Jersey, District of Columbia, Utah

A postsecondary education administrator helps run educational institutions like colleges and universities. The projected 3% job growth rate is on par with the average rate for all U.S. occupations.

When working in a top-paying state like New Jersey, administrators can earn an average annual salary of $148,560. With New York administrators averaging $166,500 per year, it’s easy to see why many educators are enticed to enroll in graduate school.

Duties as a postsecondary education administrator include helping to oversee academics and faculty research. Other sought-out positions for those who hold this master’s degree are working as an institution’s registrar or a department’s academic dean.

Generally, a postsecondary education administrator needs only a master’s degree. Upper-level positions in postsecondary education may require further studies. You may need to obtain a doctorate in educational administration depending on the institution.

4. Postsecondary Teachers — $84,380 per Year

• 2023 Median Annual Salary: $84,380
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): 8%
• Top-Paying States: Varies by subject taught

Postsecondary teachers who decide to teach subject-specific courses at the collegiate level can pursue career opportunities across the nation. The projected 8% job growth rate for postsecondary teachers is double the average rate for all U.S. occupations.

To teach in this setting, a postsecondary teacher typically must have a master’s degree in the subject they are teaching. If you hold a master of education (M.Ed.), you can pursue teaching positions in introductory education courses at a college or university.

Due to the high demand, graduates with a master’s degree in specific content areas earn a median annual salary of $84,380 as a full-time faculty member. The salary is even more attractive for those who wish to become a full-time professor on a tenure track . Some positions may require a doctoral degree.

5. Instructional Coordinators — $74,620 per Year

• 2023 Median Annual Salary: $74,620
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): 2%
• Top-Paying States: District of Columbia, California, Connecticut, Maryland, Washington

With a master’s degree in education, you may want to consider becoming an instructional coordinator. For an institution to consider you for this role, you can also get a master’s in curriculum and instruction .

As an instructional coordinator, you will oversee curriculum and teaching standards, design and implement instructional material, and determine its efficacy for elementary and secondary schools, colleges, or state and local governments.

Depending on the institution, you may oversee multiple subject areas or be asked to target an area that requires restructuring. With an average national salary of $77,200 annually, pursuing an M.Ed. seems worth the two-year investment for some job seekers.

The high demand for instructional coordinators is likely to help address educational gaps brought on by years of remote learning with targeted intervention and support for personnel. Due to the current teacher shortage, your focus may not only be on the new first-year teacher but also on the experienced teacher who has also had to take on additional roles to meet staffing needs.

6. School and Career Counselors and Advisors — $61,710 per Year

• 2023 Median Annual Salary: $61,710
• Projected Job Growth Rate (2023-2033): 4%
• Top-Paying States: California, Washington, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Maryland

A rewarding position you can also qualify for with a master’s in education is a school counselor or career advisor. As a school counselor, you will help students further develop their academic and social skills.

As a career counselor or advisor, you can assist students as they create a roadmap for their future, helping them begin the pursuit of their employment goals. Career advisors also work in private practices and at career centers.

The projected growth rate is higher than the national average for all U.S. occupations. Part of this may be due to the impact the pandemic has had on students and the workforce.

Many people are seeking help in reevaluating their career goals and choices and their work/life balance. With this demand, school and career counselors and advisors earn on average a salary of $66,990 per year as of May 2023.

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Trade Schools Home > Articles > Highest-Paying Jobs with Short Career Programs

24 Short Career Programs That Lead to High-Paying Jobs

By Publisher | Last Updated October 21, 2024

Are you eager to start earning good money but not ready to commit to a bachelor's degree? Trade schools and colleges offer short career programs that can qualify you for a professional role that pays well. Plenty of high-paying jobs with little schooling required rival jobs that need a bachelor's or higher, especially when it comes to salary and job outlook.* Areas like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades are full of opportunities.

Is it possible to get a job that pays well without spending four or more years at a traditional college or university?

The answer is yes. Many trade schools and colleges offer short career programs that can prepare you for a professional role that pays well. Plenty of high-paying jobs with little schooling compete favorably with those that require a bachelor's degree or higher. Many people choose to bypass that longer path and still end up with some of America's highest-paying jobs and out-earn many four-year college graduates. Areas like healthcare , technology , and skilled trades are full of opportunities.

It takes a broader view of your educational options and the enthusiasm to learn what skills are needed in the marketplace. Let this article introduce you to a world of fast careers that pay well. The opportunities for short career programs with just two years or less of trade school or vocational training can be surprising.

Read on to learn how to prepare for the highest-paying jobs without a degree.

Skilled Trades

• More Great Careers

The Trouble With Many Conventional Degrees

• Maximize Your ROI

High-Paying Jobs With Little Schooling Required

You'll find some of the best-paying careers requiring little schooling in the following list. For many, all you need is a simple two-year associate degree . A months-long diploma or certificate program is often enough to get into some of the fastest careers. Keep in mind that what you can earn might vary depending on which part of the country you work in and how much experience you have.

1. Aircraft Mechanic

Learning the exciting trade of repairing and maintaining airplanes or helicopters can be accomplished through an aviation school's short, FAA-approved aircraft maintenance training .

• Median pay: $75,020
• Top pay: $114,750 or more

2. Electrician

Training at an electrician trade school and a short apprenticeship are usually enough to enter this trade, letting you wire buildings for electrical power and communications.

• Median pay: $61,590
• Top pay: $104,180 or more

3. Plumber/Pipefitter/Steamfitter

With a short amount of formal plumbing trade school or apprenticeship training, you can specialize in installing and repairing pipes and related equipment.

• Median pay: $61,550
• Top pay: $103,140 or more

4. HVAC Technician

These tradespeople install, maintain, and repair the systems that heat and cool our homes, businesses, and other buildings. A short program at an HVAC trade school can prepare you to become an HVAC technician in 8 to 24 months.

• Median pay: $57,300
• Top pay: $84,250 or more

5. Construction Equipment Operator

This skilled trade involves controlling large construction machinery to build roads or major structures. Businesses are often willing to train workers on the job, but formal heavy equipment training could give you an edge in securing a good job.

• Median pay: $55,270
• Top pay: $94,800 or more

Manufacturing, construction, and fabrication usually require welding. Most welders work in the manufacturing sector but are also employed in various other industries. The typical way to enter the welding trade is by completing formal welding training , getting certified, and continuing to learn while on the job. By combining classroom education and on-the-job training, employers and unions sometimes offer the opportunity to earn money while learning through a welding apprenticeship .

• Median pay: $48,940
• Top pay: $72,970 or more

7. Diesel Mechanic

In this automotive trade, the focus is on inspecting, repairing, or overhauling large vehicles with diesel engines such as trucks, buses, and rolling machinery used in mining or construction. Diesel mechanic training is offered at vocational and trade schools, and usually nine to 24 months to complete.

• Median pay: $58,970
• Top pay: $82,430 or more

8. Automotive Technician

Formal automotive training can prepare you to become a respected technician in an exciting and challenging field. You must complete an apprenticeship or a post-secondary program to become a mechanic . Many vocational schools offer auto mechanic programs , and some offer apprenticeships and externships.

• Median pay: $47,770
• Top pay: $77,630 or more

Healthcare Careers

1. dental hygienist.

Dental hygienists' primary duties include cleaning teeth, inspecting mouths for signs of disease, and educating patients about proper oral care. This is a popular option for quick degrees that pay well. Dental hygienist training can be completed in as little as two years.

• Median pay: $87,530
• Top pay: $118,400 or more

2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

These healthcare technicians use special ultrasound technology to capture images that help doctors correctly diagnose and treat their patients. Most ultrasound techs have an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography .

• Median pay: $84,470
• Top pay: $116,300 or more

3. Registered Nurse

With an associate degree in nursing , you could be providing essential patient care in hospitals, nursing facilities, and other healthcare settings. In the future, you could expand your career potential and enhance your job satisfaction through an RN to BSN bridge program .

• Median pay: $86,070
• Top pay: $132,680 or more

4. Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists help patients breathe effectively, whether they are helping with rehabilitation in a private clinic or placing someone on a ventilator to save their life. The pandemic highlighted the critical role of respiratory therapists in hospitals, especially in treating patients with severe respiratory illnesses, including lingering lung damage from COVID-19. The demand for respiratory therapists is high and expected to stay high for some time. Respiratory therapist school can be completed in two years or less.

• Median pay: $77,960
• Top pay: $104,480 or more

5. Radiologic (X-Ray) Technologist

An X-ray technologist operates radiologic medical imaging equipment to produce images and media for diagnostic purposes. These professionals assist patients before and after imaging and then process and review the results to ensure they are clear enough for diagnosis and evaluation by a doctor. Completing a diploma or certificate program in basic X-Ray or radiologic technology can help you prepare for any required licensing exams.

• Median pay: $73,410
• Top pay: $102,380 or more

6. Cardiovascular Technologist/Technician

These specialists perform tests, take ultrasound images, or provide assistance during surgery for heart-related conditions. Cardiovascular technologist training can typically be completed in one to two years.

• Median pay: $66,170
• Top pay: $105,140 or more

7. Surgical Technologist

Preparing operating rooms, organizing surgical equipment, and assisting surgeons during operations are a few of the main roles of this kind of healthcare technician. A certificate or diploma in surgical technology can be completed in 9 to 15 months.

• Median pay: $60,610
• Top pay: $83,150 or more

8. Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse

You do not need a degree to get into this level of nursing, which lets you work alongside doctors and other health professionals after a quick (typically one year) LPN training program . This training teaches basic patient care skills and prepares you for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).

• Median pay: $59,730
• Top pay: $77,870 or more

Technology Careers

1. software developer.

Although many developers have bachelor's degrees, other successful people in this field begin their careers with under two years of formal training in software development . Practical experience and hands-on skills can be incredibly valuable, often more so than traditional degrees, in building a successful career.

• Median pay: $132,270
• Top pay: $208,620 or more

2. Network Systems Administrator

This technology-based vocation involves managing an organization's data communications systems. Networking training ranges from short certificate and diploma programs to degrees and specific vendor certifications.

• Median pay: $95,360
• Top pay: $148,710 or more

3. Web Developer

Building attractive and functional websites requires plenty of technical skill but not necessarily much schooling, especially if you already enjoy teaching yourself new tricks. This could be one of the quickest careers you can get into in tech. While not required, a formal web development or design education can give you an edge.

• Median pay: $84,960
• Top pay: $157,280 or more

4. Electrical or Electronics Engineering Technician

An electrical or electronics engineering technician helps engineers develop and test equipment and devices related to computers, health monitoring, communications, or navigation. Electronics training can take anywhere from four months to two years. Certificate or diploma programs can take as little as four months, and associate degree programs are typically 18 to 24 months long.

• Median pay: $72,800
• Top pay: $105,320 or more

5. Mechanical Engineering Technician

With an associate degree in mechanical engineering , you can begin assisting mechanical engineers in developing, testing, and manufacturing industrial machines, engines, and tools with moving parts.

• Median pay: $64,020
• Top pay: $96,740 or more

More Great Careers with Short Training

1. commercial pilot (non-airline).

You don't need a college degree to fly charters or to get paid for jobs like aerial photography or firefighting missions. But you do need certification from the Federal Aviation Administration . You can prepare for certification at an aviation school offering short pilot training .

• Median pay: $113,080
• Top pay: $239,200 or more

2. Police Officer

Requirements vary from agency to agency. In some cases, being in good physical shape and having some criminal justice education can make you a viable candidate for police academy training. Short career training in law enforcement can be a requirement or an asset.

• Median pay: $74,910
• Top pay: $117,100 or more

3. Paralegal or Legal Assistant

These well-paid professionals are trained to support lawyers by handling responsibilities like legal research, administrative tasks, or document drafting. An associate degree in legal assisting or paralegal studies can be completed in two years.

• Median pay: $60,970
• Top pay: $98,830 or more

According to a 2021 NCES employment report , more than half of college graduates with a traditional bachelor's degree in science, technology, engineering, or math are not employed in the fields they studied. Science majors often have difficulty finding work in their fields. Success in these areas often requires additional time in school to earn master's or doctorate degrees.

The result is that some college graduates who choose the conventional route end up underemployed. Those who major in science or the liberal arts are especially vulnerable unless they go on to graduate school to increase their opportunities.

Whether traditional college is worth the time and investment often depends on the career you want. You will need to discover if you can achieve your goals without a degree. Often, training at a vocational school is what you need.

Maximize Your Return on Investment at a Trade School

In contrast to most traditional four-year institutions, career and technical schools specialize in putting students on a more defined path to success in the job market. They offer the chance to earn quick degrees or diplomas and complete fast career certification programs. Many of the best, highest-paying entry-level jobs can be attained with only two years or less of focused career education.

That's the real value of short vocational schooling . It's all about getting new opportunities and a positive return on investment (ROI) with the least amount of schooling needed. In this case, ROI refers to the extra amount you can earn in your lifetime as a graduate, after subtracting the cost of schooling and the amount that a typical non-graduate would earn.

Whether looking for easy trades that pay well, a rewarding healthcare career, or the best tech career options, the ROI of graduating from a vocational college or trade school is often very good since you learn marketable skills and technical abilities that employers need. Plus, your time is valuable. So why spend extra time training when there are great careers with little schooling you can get into sooner?

* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook . Some careers listed may be part of a combined occupation profile (visited October 11, 2024).

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5 of the Highest Paying Jobs in Education [2024]

Table Of Contents

Quickstart guide to getting a high-paying education career, 5 of the highest paying jobs in education, 1.  college administrators, 2.  school principals, 3.  college professors, 4.  elementary and high school teachers, 5.  special education teachers, 5 of the highest paying education jobs without a degree, 6.  secretary/administrative assistant, 7. security guard, 8. bus driver, 9. school custodian/janitor, 10. teacher assistant, best places to find high paying education jobs, ziprecruiter,  careerbuilder, frequently asked questions , what is a high salary this year, what is the best career this year, what is the highest paying job in the education field, the bottom line.

There are hundreds of thousands of jobs in the education field, but it’s likely you’re looking for the highest paying jobs in education. But we’re not going to give you five – we’re going to give you 10. We’re including the five highest paying jobs in education with a college degree, and five without a degree.

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• Search for jobs on ZipRecruiter. If you’re looking for a high-paying education job, start your search on ZipRecruiter. ZipRecruiter is free for job seekers and you can apply for jobs with a single click!

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Average Salary: $111,260/year

Education Required: A Master’s degree for most positions

College administrators work in a variety of capacities at colleges, universities, and community colleges. There are also a large number of positions in the field, including registrars and academic deans. Though most positions involve work with maintaining the operation of the campus, some may also work directly with students in an advisory capacity, particularly in the area of student financing.

Average Salary: $101,320/year

Education Required: Master’s degree in education administration or leadership; must also have teaching experience

School principals work in high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools across the country. They function as the highest-ranking employees in their respective schools and are responsible for the overall operation of the institution. At smaller schools, principals may be more directly involved with students and the education process. Maintaining communication with parents of the student body is an ongoing responsibility.

Average Salary: $80,840/year

Education Required: A PhD in most cases, though a Master’s degree may be accepted at community colleges

College professors work in public and private colleges, universities, and community colleges. They can work either full-time or part-time, and generally specialize in a single specific subject area.

Pay varies considerably, based on the geographic region, the specific institution, and the subject area. For example, professors of law, economics, engineering, and health specialties typically earn over $100,000 per year.

Average Salary: $62,360/year

Education Required: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree, and often a Master’s degree, as well as a state-issued certification or license

Teachers provide direct instruction to students in elementary and high schools across the country. There are nearly 1 million positions available nationwide. Candidates can teach on a wide range of subjects, but the highest salaries generally go to those who teach math and science. Salaries are also higher by geographic location, with states like California and New York paying considerably higher rates.

For more information, check out our teacher job description .

Average Salary: $62,950/year

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree, plus a state-issued certification or license

Special education teachers work at both public and private schools, including high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. They work specifically with students who have learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities.

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Average Salary: $44,080/year

Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent

There’s a business side to running every institution, and that includes schools. Secretaries and administrative assistants are widely employed in colleges and universities, as well as elementary, middle and high schools. They handle a wide variety of routine clerical and organizational assignments.

Average Salary: $38,930/year

Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent; may be required to be state licensed if they carry a firearm

Security guards are often assigned to schools and universities to protect property and provide student safety. In addition, they may be employed in colleges and universities to protect buildings after hours and on weekends.

Average Salary: $42,000/year

Education Required: None, but generally require specific driver licensing, and may require completion of specific courses related to the transportation of children.

School bus drivers are responsible for transporting students from their own neighborhoods or locations to school. They are required to maintain safety standards, as well as punctuality to get students to school on time.

Average Salary: $31,990/year

Education Required: No formal education requirement

School custodians are responsible for cleaning school buildings but may also be involved in various maintenance activities. Those may include changing light bulbs, making minor repairs, and transporting supplies on the school campus. They may also be involved in minor outdoor maintenance, such as clearing snow from doorways in winter.

Average Salary: $30,920/year

Education Required: While college is preferred, two years of higher education often meets the requirement, and a high school diploma is sometimes accepted

As the name implies, a teacher assistant assists the primary teacher in the classroom. They’re more commonly found in elementary schools due to the younger age of the student population. A teacher assistant will often work one-on-one with students who are struggling, or even with small groups. They may also assist in the preparation of lessons and supervise students in the absence of the classroom teacher.

Here are the best places to find high paying education jobs . If you are ready to start applying for jobs, make sure your education resume is ready to go!

ZipRecruiter gets high marks as the single best job search platform, regardless of the position you are seeking. You can create a personal profile in addition to posting your resume. And in one of the best features of the platform, ZipRecruiter will give you access to more than 100 of the best job boards in the industry.

For more information, read our ZipRecruiter review.

CareerBuilder has made job search services available to job seekers for well over 20 years. They provide career advice, as well as training and tips to help you better find the job you’re looking for.

For more information, check our our CareerBuilder review.

Indeed is another popular job board. It’s free to use for job seekers, and you can upload your resume, and search jobs on multiple job boards. They also provide individual company reviews to help you determine the best employer prospects.

For more information, check out our Indeed review.

Note that all three job boards are free to use by job hunters.

If you’re a school or university looking to fill an education job, or any other position, check out our list of the Best Free Job Posting Sites .

As you can see from the information we’ve provided in this guide, college administrators are at the top of the pay scale for educators, at over $111,000. But among the education positions that don’t require a college degree, secretaries and administrative assistants do make nearly $40,000 on average.

The answer to that question is completely subjective. Though some jobs do report higher job satisfaction – particularly college professors – the best career is the one that works best for you. That means the right combination of responsibilities, work environment, and compensation.

Once again, the highest paying positions in the education field are college administrators. But that doesn’t necessarily mean all college administrators earn six figures. Exactly how much you’ll earn will depend on the size of the school you work at, as well as the region of the country and the specific responsibilities the position carries.

There are plenty of jobs in the education field, whether you have a college degree and even if you don’t. Find your education job on ZipRecruiter today!

Michael Gardon

Mike is our Founder, career coach, and resident expert on all things resume, hiring and work-life. He is author of The Break newsletter and host of The Break Podcast on Careercloud. He has seen everything from being hired (and fired) to hiring and managing hundreds of people over his career. Mike has also successfully navigated many career pivots. He is a former derivatives trader turned corporate consultant turned entrepreneur who also holds a Bachelors' Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from DePaul University in Chicago. Mike is often interviewed and quoted on career topics in major publications such as Business Insider, Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo Finance and Fox News. Mike resides in the beautiful midwest where he built a life around his family. Connect with Mike to talk purpose, career change, entrepreneurship and side hustles like Quotebook , which he built with his kids!

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