Educational Consultants: What They Do & How to Become One for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Starting a career as an educational consultant isn’t always straightforward. Unlike teachers or school counselors, educational consultants often work independently, helping students, schools, and businesses improve learning outcomes. Some specialize in college admissions, while others focus on curriculum design, special education, or corporate training. With so many paths available, it can be hard to know what skills you need, what credentials matter, and how to get started.

This is a great time to enter the field. The demand for education experts is growing, and schools increasingly rely on outside advisors. Employment for school and career counselors and advisors is expected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, keeping pace with the average job market. More consultants will be needed to guide students and institutions as education evolves. This article, prepared by experts in career planning, will explain what educational consultants do, how to become one, and how to succeed in this career.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming an Educational Consultant

Educational consultants earn an average salary of $79,608 in 2025, with higher earnings based on experience and specialization.
The job outlook for educational consultants is strong, with career counseling roles projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033.
68% of college students report feeling at least somewhat stressed about preparing for life after graduation, increasing demand for consultants.
Only 20% of recent public college graduates received full career coaching, showing a gap consultants can fill.
The best-paid consultants work in higher education and private consulting firms.

What does an educational consultant do?
What skills do you need to be a successful educational consultant for 2025?
Why is educational consulting a growing career for 2025?
What are the steps to become an educational consultant?
Do you need a teaching background to become an educational consultant?
What certifications help in becoming an educational consultant?
Can advanced education accelerate my consulting career?
How do advanced qualifications impact your consulting success?
What emerging trends will shape the future of educational consulting?
What are the legal and ethical responsibilities of educational consultants?
How much do educational consultants make?
What are effective strategies for long-term career growth as an educational consultant?
How do educational consultants get clients?
What are the challenges of being an educational consultant?
What are the best resources for aspiring educational consultants?
How Can Educational Consultants Measure and Enhance Their Performance?
How can effective personal branding drive client acquisition?
Can Expertise in Creative Writing Enhance Your Educational Consulting Practice?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Educational Consultant

What does an educational consultant do?

Educational consultants guide students, schools, and organizations to improve learning and career outcomes. They provide expert advice on curriculum, college admissions, special education, and teacher training. Many work independently, while others collaborate with schools, businesses, or government agencies.

Their responsibilities include:

College and career advising – Helping students choose schools, prepare applications, and plan careers.
Curriculum development – Designing effective lesson plans and educational programs.
Special education support – Assisting schools with individualized learning strategies.
Teacher training – Coaching educators on new teaching methods and classroom strategies.
School improvement – Consulting on policies, technology use, and student engagement.

Their role is more critical than ever. A 2024 survey found that 68% of college students feel at least somewhat stressed about preparing for life after graduation. This demand has made consulting a strong career option. For those seeking high-paying jobs with a master’s in education, this field offers rewarding opportunities with lasting impact.

The chart below lists the industries with the highest levels of employment for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors, as reported by the BLS in 2024.

What skills do you need to be a successful educational consultant for 2025?

Educational consultants need a mix of teaching experience, communication skills, and business knowledge to succeed. Since many work independently, strong problem-solving and leadership abilities are also essential.

Key skills include:

Educational expertise – Understanding curriculum development, student learning needs, and school policies.
Communication skills – Explaining complex information to students, parents, and educators.
Problem-solving – Identifying issues in education systems and creating solutions.
Business and marketing knowledge – Managing a consulting practice, networking, and attracting clients.
Adaptability – Staying current with new teaching methods, technology, and policies.

Many future consultants gain these skills by pursuing advanced degrees. For affordable options, the cheapest online educational leadership programs provide administration, policy, and instructional strategies training. Combining these skills with real-world experience can help educational consultants build a strong career in this growing field.

Why is educational consulting a growing career for 2025?

Educational consulting is growing because students, schools, and businesses need more expert guidance. Many students struggle to get quality career support, and schools seek outside expertise to improve education programs.

Key reasons for growth include:

Gaps in career guidance – Only 1 in 5 recent public college graduates report receiving full education-to-career coaching, leaving many students without clear direction.
Increased demand for personalized support – More students now receive information on career pathways and earnings. However, many still need one-on-one help to make decisions.
Expansion of online education – In 2024, Southern New Hampshire University ranked as the top distance learning institution, with 96% of its students enrolled online. As online programs grow, more students seek consulting to navigate options.
More focus on school improvement – Schools hire consultants to design better curriculums, train teachers, and implement new policies.

With these trends, the demand for educational consultants will likely continue to rise. Those with advanced education and career advising training can build strong consulting careers in this expanding field.

What are the steps to become an educational consultant?

Becoming an educational consultant requires experience, advanced education, and specialized skills. Many professionals start as teachers or administrators before transitioning into consulting.

Earn a relevant degree – A bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, or a related field is the minimum. However, most consultants hold a master’s or doctorate. An online PhD in higher education can help develop leadership and policy expertise.
Gain experience in education – Schools, colleges, and training organizations prefer consultants with hands-on teaching or administrative experience. At least 5 to 10 years in education builds credibility.
Develop specialized expertise – Consultants often focus on curriculum design, college admissions, or special education. Earning certifications or taking additional courses can help.
Build strong communication and business skills – Many consultants work independently, so they need marketing, networking, and client management skills.
Create a consulting portfolio – A portfolio showcasing successful projects, training programs, or curriculum designs can attract clients.
Join professional organizations – Groups like the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) provide networking opportunities and credibility.
Establish a business or seek employment – Consultants can start their own business, work for an educational firm, or take roles in government agencies.

Do you need a teaching background to become an educational consultant?

A teaching background is not required but is the most common path. Most educational consultants start as teachers or administrators before moving into consulting. However, professionals from other fields, like psychology, business, or policy, can also enter the field with relevant expertise.

Here are two common paths:

With a teaching background
- Teaching experience helps consultants understand classroom challenges.
- Former teachers can specialize in curriculum development, student advising, or teacher training.
- Schools and districts often prefer consultants with firsthand experience, particularly those familiar with physical education teacher requirements, curriculum standards, or certification processes.
Without a teaching background
- Professionals with expertise in psychology, education policy, or instructional design can work as consultants.
- Business and marketing experts may consult on school operations or edtech solutions.
- Earning a master’s or PhD in education-related fields can help establish credibility.

While a teaching background provides a strong foundation, advanced education, and specialized skills can also lead to success in educational consulting.

The chart below lists the most common education level of educational consultants, as reported by Zippia in 2025.

What certifications help in becoming an educational consultant?

Certifications can strengthen an educational consultant’s credibility and expertise. While not always required, they help demonstrate specialized knowledge and improve job opportunities.

Here are some valuable certifications:

Certified Educational Planner (CEP) – Offered by the American Institute of Certified Educational Planners (AICEP), this certification is ideal for consultants specializing in college admissions and academic advising.
Board Certified Educational Advocate (BCEA) – This certification from the National Association of Educational Advocates is helpful for consultants working with special education students and families.
National Board Certification (NBC) – While designed for teachers, this certification shows expertise in curriculum development and instructional strategies, making it valuable for consultants focusing on school improvement. Those specializing in literacy and intervention may also consider completing reading specialist certification programs to deepen their expertise.
Project Management Professional (PMP) – Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this certification helps consultants working on school reform, policy development, or large-scale education initiatives.
Certified Higher Education Professional (CHEP) – Provided by the National Association of State Administrators and Supervisors of Private Schools (NASASPS), this certification benefits consultants focused on higher education administration.

Can advanced education accelerate my consulting career?

Pursuing advanced education can significantly enhance credibility and strategic insight, which are crucial for excelling as an educational consultant. Advanced degree programs provide rigorous training in contemporary educational theories and leadership practices, enabling consultants to address complex challenges and position themselves as trusted experts. For professionals looking to boost their credentials efficiently, consider exploring 2 year Ed.D programs online, which offer a fast-tracked pathway to advanced expertise while balancing professional obligations.

How do advanced qualifications impact your consulting success?

Educational consultants enhance their effectiveness by pursuing targeted advanced training that broadens research capabilities and reinforces strategic data analysis. Specialized credentials provide industry-specific insights that support tailored problem-solving and the design of evidence-based strategies. Programs like MLIS degree online equip professionals with expertise in managing extensive information resources and leveraging digital tools to address complex educational challenges, ensuring a competitive edge in the evolving consulting landscape.

What emerging trends will shape the future of educational consulting?

As the educational consulting landscape evolves, professionals are increasingly leveraging digital transformation and data analytics to enhance service delivery. Emerging trends include the adoption of virtual collaboration tools, AI-driven client insights, and personalized learning support systems that enable consultants to tailor recommendations more precisely. In addition, shifts in educational policy and growing demand for flexible learning solutions are prompting consultants to integrate innovative strategies into their practice. For those seeking to further refine their pedagogical expertise, exploring options at online colleges for teaching can provide a competitive edge in this rapidly changing field.

What are the legal and ethical responsibilities of educational consultants?

Educational consultants must adhere to strict standards that promote impartiality, confidentiality, and transparency in client interactions. They are accountable for ensuring that advice and guidance do not favor any particular outcome or stakeholder, while continuously updating their knowledge of regulatory and compliance issues. Professional conduct involves clear disclosure of any conflicts of interest and a commitment to fair practices in all client engagements. Pursuing targeted advanced education and ethical training can help maintain these high standards; for example, some professionals explore options such as cheapest EdD online programs to reinforce ethical leadership in their practice.

How much do educational consultants make?

In 2025, educational consultants earn an average salary of $79,608 per year, according to Zippia. However, salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization.

Here's a breakdown of salary ranges:

Entry-Level (0–3 years) – Consultants just starting out typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 per year. Those with a master's degree or specialized certifications may start at the higher end. Professionals pursuing higher roles may explore what degree do you need to be a college professor as a potential path to increase credibility and income.
Mid-Career (4–9 years) – With more experience, salaries rise to $70,000–$90,000. Consultants with strong client networks or administrative experience can earn even more.
Senior-Level (10+ years) – Highly experienced consultants, especially those with a PhD or extensive leadership experience, often make $100,000 or more. Those running their own consulting firms can exceed $150,000 annually.
Industry and Location Impact – Consultants in private practice or corporate settings earn more than those in nonprofits or school districts. High-cost-of-living areas like California, New York, and Massachusetts also offer higher salaries.

Educational consultants with specialized skills, such as college admissions advising or curriculum design, earn more than general consultants.

What are effective strategies for long-term career growth as an educational consultant?

Educational consultants can secure enduring success by strategically expanding their expertise and market presence. Developing a tailored approach to continuous learning, such as attending industry-specific seminars and pursuing targeted certifications, helps in cultivating a dynamic skill set. Emphasizing innovative communication methods, including creative content strategies, further distinguishes one’s services. Integrating new trends and complementary skills into your practice—such as those offered through online writing degree programs—enhances both professional credibility and client engagement in a competitive market.

How do educational consultants get clients?

Educational consultants get clients by building a strong reputation, networking, and marketing their services. Many work independently, so attracting clients is essential for success.

Here are key ways consultants find clients:

Establishing expertise – Consultants gain credibility by speaking at conferences, writing articles, or earning certifications. Listing credentials, like a PhD or certifications, reassures potential clients. Degrees from good online colleges can also strengthen a consultant’s reputation.
Networking with schools and professionals – Strong connections with teachers, school administrators, and counselors help consultants receive referrals. Joining organizations like the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) or the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) also opens doors.
Online presence and digital marketing – A professional website with testimonials, blog posts, and transparent service offerings makes it easier for clients to find and trust a consultant. Social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO) also boost visibility.
Partnering with organizations – Some consultants work with colleges, private schools, or tutoring centers to offer services. Others collaborate with nonprofits, corporations, or government agencies focused on education.
Word-of-mouth referrals – Satisfied clients often recommend consultants to others. Offering excellent service leads to repeat business and more referrals.

What are the challenges of being an educational consultant?

Educational consultants face challenges such as job instability, competition, and managing client expectations. While the career offers flexibility, it also comes with risks.

Here are the biggest challenges:

Unstable income – Many consultants work as freelancers or own businesses, meaning income can be unpredictable. Finding steady clients requires ongoing marketing and networking.
Competitive market – The demand for consultants is growing, but so is the number of professionals entering the field. Standing out requires specialization, certifications, and strong client relationships.
High client expectations – Schools, parents, and students expect quick results and tailored solutions. Meeting these expectations while maintaining ethical standards can be challenging.
Business management – Independent consultants handle billing, marketing, and legal matters on their own. Without proper planning, these tasks can become overwhelming.
Keeping up with education trends – Policies, technology, and best practices in education constantly change. Consultants must stay updated through research, training, and professional development. For those in K–12 education, staying informed on kindergarten teacher requirements or early childhood education trends can offer a competitive edge in consulting work.

The chart below illustrates the type of information recent graduates receive in a timely manner to help with their careers, as published Strada Education in 2024.

What are the best resources for aspiring educational consultants?

Aspiring educational consultants can benefit from professional organizations, certifications, online courses, and networking platforms. These resources help them gain knowledge, build credibility, and connect with clients.

Here are some of the best resources:

Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) – This organization provides training, ethical guidelines, and networking opportunities. Members can attend conferences, access research, and connect with experienced consultants.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) – Ideal for consultants focusing on college advising, NACAC offers professional development, industry reports, and networking events.
Online courses and professional development – Many universities offer specialized educational consulting, leadership, and curriculum development training. Completing courses or earning advanced degrees in education can enhance expertise and career prospects.
LinkedIn and professional networking groups – Joining LinkedIn groups for educational consulting connects aspiring consultants with mentors and job opportunities. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can attract potential clients.

How Can Educational Consultants Measure and Enhance Their Performance?

Educational consultants can leverage performance metrics such as client feedback, referral rates, and measurable student outcome improvements to assess their effectiveness. Employing data analytics and digital tools not only streamlines performance tracking but also supports the identification of areas for strategic enhancement. Establishing clear benchmarks helps in refining service delivery and fostering long-term client relationships. For advanced insights into strategic management and continuous improvement, consider pursuing an online PhD in leadership.

How can effective personal branding drive client acquisition?

A focused personal brand separates seasoned consultants from competitors in a crowded market. Educational consultants can achieve this by clearly defining their niche and consistently communicating their unique value proposition through digital channels and professional networks. Enhancing storytelling skills to articulate success stories and client case studies can further reinforce credibility. Integrating refined writing techniques—such as those acquired in cheap MFA online programs—can elevate personal narratives and marketing materials, ultimately attracting high-quality clients and fostering long-term client relationships.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming an Educational Consultant

I never thought I could build a career helping students navigate education until I became an educational consultant. The freedom to set my own schedule and focus on the areas I care about most has been life-changing. Seeing students succeed because of my guidance makes every challenge worth it. – Amara

After years in the classroom, I wanted to do more for students struggling with career decisions. Becoming an educational consultant allowed me to work one-on-one with families and provide real solutions. It’s fulfilling to know I’m bridging the gap between education and career success. – Harry

I hesitated to leave a stable job, but consulting has opened doors I never imagined. The demand for expert guidance is growing, and I’ve built a strong client base while increasing my income. Helping students find their path while securing my financial future—it’s the best of both worlds. – Enid

Can Expertise in Creative Writing Enhance Your Educational Consulting Practice?

Educational consultants who hone advanced writing skills can create more compelling client reports, persuasive proposals, and engaging thought leadership material—differentiating themselves in a competitive market. Incorporating creative writing techniques allows professionals to articulate complex educational insights clearly and build stronger narratives around their strategies. In today’s digital landscape, refining one’s written communication is vital for effective online marketing, client engagement, and establishing authority. Professionals can further explore how academic programs, such as a master of fine arts in creative writing careers, contribute to developing nuanced writing proficiency that supports successful consultancy.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Educational Consultant

What is the objective of education consultant?

Educational consultants aim to improve student success by providing expert guidance on academic choices, career planning, and school policies. They help families, institutions, and educators make informed decisions. Their work ensures students receive personalized support, leading to better educational and career outcomes.

How do you set yourself up as a consultant?

To start, gain expertise through degrees in education or certifications. Build credibility by specializing in a niche, creating a professional website, and networking with schools or parents. Marketing through LinkedIn and referrals helps attract clients.

Can you be a consultant with no experience?

It's possible but challenging. Beginners can gain credibility by offering free consultations, working under experienced consultants, or completing professional training. A degree in education or a related field also adds value.

Are online-only consultants as effective as in-person ones?

Yes, online consultants provide flexibility and can reach more clients. Virtual tools allow personalized support, making remote consulting as effective as in-person services.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2024a). 21-1012 Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. BLS.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2024b). School and Career Counselors and Advisors. Occupational Outlook Handbook. BLS.
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). (2024). About a Third of Public School Students Ended the 2023–24 School Year Behind Grade Level in at Least One Academic Subject, Principals Say. Press Release. NCES.
Mowreader, A. (2024). Career Coaching Can Aid Student Success, but Not Every Student Receives Guidance. Life After College. Inside Higher Ed.
Inside Higher Ed & Generation Lab. (2024). Student Voice Survey. Generation Lab.
Strada Education. (2024). Quality Coaching. Strada Education.
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS). (2024). World Education Statistics. UIS.
Zippia. (2025a). Education Consultant Education Requirements. Zippia.
Zippia. (2025b). Education Consultant Salary. Zippia.