Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In 2023, K-12 education administrators in the US earned an average annual salary of $111,020, with projected job openings averaging 20,800 each year through the forecast period. These numbers highlight the steady demand for school principals, especially as leadership roles play a crucial part in shaping educational outcomes. However, many aspiring principals struggle to navigate the certification process, which often involves multiple educational, experience, and licensing requirements that differ across states. This lack of clarity can make it difficult to know where to start. This guide breaks down the principal/administrative certification pathway, offering clear information to help future K-12 principals take the next step in their careers.

Key Things You Should Know About Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements

• Certification requirements vary by state and involve multiple steps. Most states require a master's degree in educational leadership or administration, along with passing state-specific exams and obtaining a principal certification or license. Candidates should verify their state’s regulations through their local education department.
• Teaching experience is a common requirement for principal certification. Many states mandate at least 2 to 5 years of classroom teaching experience before candidates can pursue certification, reflecting the importance of instructional knowledge in school leadership.
• K-12 education administrators earn competitive salaries. The average annual salary for K-12 education administrators in the US was $111,020 in 2023, with pay ranging from $70,050 to $163,010 depending on location, experience, and type of institution.
• Job prospects for K-12 principals are stable but competitive. The US job market for K-12 principals is projected to decline slightly by -1% from 2023 to 2033, but an estimated 20,800 annual job openings are expected due to retirements and career shifts.
• Continuing education is essential for maintaining certification. Many states require principals to complete ongoing professional development courses or earn continuing education credits to renew their certification and stay up to date with educational policies and practices.

Table of Contents

1. Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements for 2025
2. What educational requirements do I need for principal/administrative certification for 2025?
3. What certifications do I need to become a K-12 principal?
4. Is teaching experience required for principal/administrative certification?
5. How long does it take to earn principal/administrative certification?
6. What continuing education or professional development is required for maintaining principal/administrative certification?
7. How much do principal/administrators earn?
8. What are the main responsibilities of a school principal/administrator?
9. How can an accelerated bachelor's degree fast-track a career in school leadership?
10. What are the challenges facing K-12 education administrators?
11. How Do I Choose the Right Certification Program for School Leadership?
12. What trends in K-12 education should principals be aware of?
13. Should an Easy Online Bachelor's Degree Be the Starting Point for a Leadership Career?
14. What is the job market for principal/administrator positions?
15. Can Fast Online Degrees Enhance My Path to Becoming a Principal?
16. What financial aid options are available for aspiring school leaders?
17. Is a Short-Term Associate Degree a Viable Starting Point for a Leadership Career?
18. How Can I Identify an Affordable Online Bachelor's Program That Aligns with Certification Requirements?
19. Can Supplementary Online Certifications Elevate My School Leadership Prospects?
20. Other Things You Should Know About Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements

Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements for 2025

Aspiring K-12 principals must navigate a structured certification process to qualify for administrative roles. Understanding these requirements is essential for those considering a career in school leadership. While certification standards vary across states, common elements include educational qualifications, certification exams, and professional experience. This section provides a high-level overview of the key components of principal/administrative certification, offering a foundational understanding of what it takes to become a school administrator for 2025. The succeeding sections will delve deeper into each aspect of the process.

Educational Background: The Foundation of Certification

A bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement for most careers in education, but principal/administrative certification typically requires an advanced degree. Prospective principals are often expected to complete a master's degree in educational leadership or education administration, though some states accept related fields like public policy or curriculum and instruction.

For those still planning their undergraduate education, the best majors in college to pursue are those that provide a strong foundation in teaching, such as:

• Education or Teaching: The most direct path for future principals.
• Psychology: Useful for understanding student behavior and school community dynamics.
• Public Administration: Offers insights into leadership, organizational management, and policy.
• English or Mathematics: Common teaching subjects that can serve as stepping stones to administrative careers.

General Steps to Become a K-12 Principal

Although certification requirements can differ by state, most aspiring K-12 principals follow a similar sequence of steps:

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Education or a Related Field: A four-year undergraduate degree, often in education or a teaching-related field, serves as the starting point for future school administrators.
2. Gain Teaching Experience: Most states require 2 to 5 years of classroom teaching experience, allowing future principals to develop instructional skills and understand the needs of both students and educators.
3. Pursue a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership or Administration: Completing a master's degree program provides advanced knowledge in school leadership, curriculum development, and organizational management. Flexible options, including online programs, allow working professionals to advance their careers without stepping away from teaching.
4. Complete a Principal Preparation Program: Many states require candidates to enroll in a state-approved principal preparation program, which combines coursework with field experience, such as internships under experienced school leaders.
5. Pass Certification Exams: Certification exams, such as the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) or state-specific tests, assess candidates' knowledge of instructional leadership, school law, and administrative practices.
6. Apply for State Licensure: After fulfilling educational, experience, and exam requirements, candidates can apply for a state-issued principal certification or administrative license. This step typically involves submitting proof of credentials and passing a background check.
7. Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements: Certified principals are often required to participate in ongoing professional development to renew their licenses and stay updated on educational policies and leadership practices.

These steps offer a structured pathway for aspiring principals, guiding them from the classroom to leadership roles in K-12 education. The following sections provide more detailed information on each of these components, helping prospective principals better understand the requirements and expectations at every stage of the certification process.

In 2023, there were around 302,580 K-12 education administrators in the country. 

What educational requirements do I need for principal/administrative certification for 2025?

Educational qualifications play a critical role in the certification process for aspiring K-12 principals. Most states require candidates to hold an advanced degree to demonstrate the knowledge and leadership skills necessary for managing school operations and fostering academic success. 

The path typically begins with a master's degree in educational leadership or a related field, which equips future principals with the theoretical and practical skills required for administrative roles. While traditional degree programs are common, accelerated degree programs for working adults have become increasingly popular for educators balancing professional and academic responsibilities. These programs offer flexible schedules and condensed coursework, allowing candidates to complete their degrees faster without stepping away from their teaching roles.

Common Master's Degrees for Principal/Administrative Certification

Prospective K-12 principals often choose from several master's degree options to fulfill educational requirements. While these programs share foundational leadership principles, they differ in their areas of focus and career applications:

• Master's in Educational Leadership: Focuses on school administration, leadership theory, and educational policy. This degree is the most common option for aspiring principals and typically aligns with state certification requirements. It prepares graduates to manage school operations, evaluate teachers, and develop strategic improvement plans.
• Master's in Education Administration: Emphasizes organizational management, school finance, and legal aspects of education administration. This program is ideal for those who want to specialize in administrative functions, such as budgeting and compliance, alongside instructional leadership.
• Master's in Curriculum and Instruction (with Leadership Track): Combines curriculum design with leadership training. This program suits educators interested in both administrative roles and instructional improvement, making it a good fit for principals who want to play an active role in curriculum development.
• Master's in Public Administration (with Education Concentration): Provides training in policy development, organizational leadership, and public sector management. This degree is a suitable option for educators aiming to transition into district-level administrative roles or public policy careers in education.
• Master's in Special Education Administration: Prepares educators to manage special education programs and ensure compliance with disability laws. This degree is especially relevant for schools with large special education populations or those pursuing district-level requirements to teach special education leadership roles.

These degree programs form the cornerstone of principal preparation, providing the academic foundation needed to navigate the complex responsibilities of school leadership. The next section discusses the certifications typically required to become a K-12 principal and how these credentials validate candidates' readiness for administrative roles.

What certifications do I need to become a K-12 principal?

Earning principal/administrative certification is a key step toward becoming a school leader. Certification requirements typically include completing a master's degree, passing exams, and meeting professional experience standards. Educators looking to maximize the return on this investment may also want to explore how much more do teachers make with a master’s to understand the potential salary benefits of these advanced credentials.

Certification types can vary by state, but they generally follow three main categories:

Types of Principal/Administrative Certification

• Initial or Preliminary Certification: Entry-level certification awarded to first-time administrators who have met the educational and exam requirements but lack significant administrative experience. This certification is typically valid for 3 to 5 years.
  • Examples:
    • California Preliminary Administrative Services Credential: Requires a master's degree, a state-approved preparation program, and passing the California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA).
    • New York Initial School Building Leader Certificate: Requires a master's degree, passing the School Building Leader (SBL) exam, and 3 years of teaching experience.
• Standard or Professional Certification: Permanent or advanced certification awarded to principals who have completed several years of administrative experience and fulfilled continuing education requirements. This certification usually requires ongoing professional development for renewal.
  • Examples:
    • Texas Standard Principal Certificate: Requires 2 years of administrative experience and 200 hours of professional development every five years.
    • Georgia Performance-Based Leadership Certificate: Requires a mentorship-based residency program and successful completion of the Georgia Educational Leadership Assessment.
• Alternative Certification Pathways: Non-traditional routes available in some states for experienced educators or professionals with related graduate degrees. These pathways often include intensive training, mentorship, and internship-based programs.
  • Examples:
    • Illinois Alternative Principal Preparation Program. Designed for educators with at least 4 years of teaching experience, combining coursework with a year-long internship.
    • New York Transitional D Certificate: For career changers with a master's degree in a related field and leadership experience outside education, combined with a leadership preparation program.

Principal/Administrative Certification Exams: What to Expect

Most states require aspiring principals to pass one or more certification exams. These assessments evaluate candidates' knowledge of instructional leadership, school operations, and educational law. The most common exams include:

Is teaching experience required for principal/administrative certification?

Teaching experience is a common prerequisite for principal/administrative certification in most states, reflecting the expectation that school leaders understand classroom dynamics and instructional practices firsthand. Typically, states require 2 to 5 years of full-time teaching experience before candidates can pursue certification. For those planning ahead, it's helpful to know how long does it take to get a teaching degree when mapping out the timeline to leadership roles. This requirement helps ensure that principals have practical knowledge of curriculum delivery, student management, and teacher support.

However, some states offer alternative pathways that allow candidates without traditional teaching backgrounds to qualify. These programs often target professionals with leadership experience in education-related fields, such as curriculum development or public policy. Candidates following this route usually need to complete additional coursework, mentorship programs, or internships under experienced administrators.

Whether through traditional or alternative pathways, prior experience in educational settings equips principals with the skills to support teachers, engage students, and lead school communities effectively.

How long does it take to earn principal/administrative certification?

The time required to earn principal/administrative certification varies based on educational background, professional experience, and state requirements. While timelines differ, most aspiring principals follow a similar progression:

• Bachelor's Degree (4 years): A four-year undergraduate degree, often in education or a related field, serves as the foundation for future school leaders.
• Teaching Experience (2–5 years): Most states require two to five years of teaching experience, allowing educators to develop instructional skills and gain classroom management expertise.
• Master's Degree in Educational Leadership or Administration (1–2 years): Completing a master's program is a core requirement for certification. Flexible options, such as an online education administration degree, allow working educators to pursue this qualification while balancing their careers.
• Principal Preparation Program and Internship (6 months–1 year): Many states require candidates to complete a state-approved leadership preparation program that includes field experience under the supervision of an experienced school administrator.
• Certification Exams: The timeline for exam preparation and testing varies, but candidates typically spend several months preparing for assessments like the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) or state-specific exams.

Overall, aspiring K-12 principals typically complete the certification process in two to three years after meeting teaching requirements. However, timelines may be shorter or longer depending on individual circumstances and state regulations.

In 2023, the industry with the highest employment levels in K-12 education administrators are elementary and secondary schools (295,810). But there are also other industries, aside from schools, that employ them like local governments (1,800) and management services (1,010). In these industries, education administrators can work in advocacies, management consulting, and shaping public policy. 

What continuing education or professional development is required for maintaining principal/administrative certification?

Maintaining principal/administrative certification typically involves meeting continuing education and professional development requirements. These requirements ensure that school leaders stay updated on educational policies, leadership practices, and emerging trends in K-12 education. Most states require certified principals to renew their licenses every 3 to 5 years, with proof of ongoing professional development. For those comparing advancement routes, understanding the difference between EdD and PhD can also help clarify long-term professional development decisions.

Common continuing education and professional development requirements include:

• Graduate-Level Coursework: Completing additional courses in educational leadership, curriculum design, or school law from accredited institutions.
• Professional Development Workshops: Attending state-approved training sessions on instructional leadership, equity in education, or emerging technologies.
• Mentorship Programs: Participating in leadership development programs that pair experienced principals with early-career administrators.
• Conference Attendance: Engaging in professional conferences organized by education associations such as the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) or the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
• Community or Policy Engagement: Contributing to education policy discussions or serving on local education boards.

Continuing education helps principals enhance their leadership skills while keeping pace with the evolving needs of K-12 education systems. This ongoing professional development is vital to maintaining certification and fostering positive school environments.

How much do principal/administrators earn?

Salaries for K-12 principals can vary significantly based on location, experience, and the type of institution. In 2023, K-12 education administrators in the US earned an average annual salary of $111,020, with wages typically ranging between $70,050 and $163,010. This places K-12 principals among the higher-paid professionals in the education sector.

In contrast, postsecondary education administrators earned an average of $122,010 during the same period. However, salaries for K-12 principals can sometimes rival those of postsecondary administrators, especially in certain industries. Beyond traditional school settings, K-12 education administrators employed in local government or corporate education services tend to earn higher wages, with average salaries reaching up to $121,350.

While compensation can be a motivating factor, the rewards of serving as a school principal often go beyond salary — offering opportunities to shape school culture, influence student outcomes, and lead educational communities.

What are the main responsibilities of a school principal/administrator?

School principals play a crucial role in shaping the educational experience of students and managing the overall operations of K-12 institutions. Their responsibilities extend beyond administrative duties, encompassing leadership, community engagement, and instructional oversight. Principals must balance the daily demands of school management while fostering an environment where students and educators thrive. Many of the essential skills required to fulfill these responsibilities can be developed through formal education, including programs like the cheapest online master's in education administration, which offer accessible pathways for aspiring school leaders to build their competencies.

Core Responsibilities of School Principals

The primary duties of K-12 school principals typically include:

• Instructional Leadership: Developing and implementing curriculum standards, supporting teacher effectiveness, and improving student outcomes.
• Staff Supervision and Evaluation: Hiring, mentoring, and evaluating teachers and support staff to ensure high performance and alignment with school goals.
• Budget and Resource Management: Overseeing the allocation of financial and material resources, including preparing budgets and managing school expenditures.
• School Climate and Safety: Creating a positive school culture, implementing safety protocols, and addressing student behavioral issues.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Building relationships with parents, local organizations, and education boards to promote collaboration and student success.
• Compliance with Policies and Regulations: Ensuring adherence to district policies, state education laws, and federal regulations.

What Skills Are Required to Be a Successful Principal in K-12 Education?

The multifaceted nature of a principal’s role requires diverse skills that combine leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Key skills include:

• Leadership and Decision-Making: Guiding staff and students while making strategic decisions that align with the school's mission.
• Communication: Effectively conveying information to teachers, students, parents, and community stakeholders.
• Conflict Resolution: Addressing disputes among staff, students, or parents with diplomacy and fairness.
• Organizational Skills: Managing schedules, budgets, and administrative tasks efficiently.
• Data-Driven Analysis: Using student performance data to inform instructional strategies and school improvement plans.

Developing these skills through formal education and ongoing professional development equips principals to navigate the complexities of school leadership while fostering a positive learning environment.

How can an accelerated bachelor's degree fast-track a career in school leadership?

Selecting an efficient undergraduate pathway is essential for aspiring K-12 leaders. Programs offering an accelerated bachelor's degree allow candidates to complete the foundational phase of their education in a condensed timeframe. This expedited route helps individuals transition sooner into advanced certifications and leadership roles, optimizing both time and financial investments. Additionally, accelerated programs often provide flexible learning formats that cater to working educators, ensuring a timely build-up of the academic competencies needed for school administration.

What are the challenges facing K-12 education administrators?

K-12 education administrators play a critical role in shaping school environments, but the position comes with considerable challenges. These difficulties can affect school operations, student outcomes, and the broader school community. For aspiring principals, knowing what to expect helps them build realistic expectations and prepare for the demands of school leadership.

Staffing Shortages and Recruitment

One of the most pressing challenges for school administrators is filling vacant teaching and non-teaching positions. The ongoing teacher shortage affects schools across the country, especially in special education. According to data from the 2024–2025 school year:

• 82% of public schools needed to fill two or more teaching vacancies before the start of the school year.
• 72% of schools with vacancies in special education struggled to find fully certified teachers.
• 64% of public schools cited the lack of qualified candidates as a major obstacle in filling teaching positions.

Staffing shortages can place additional pressure on existing faculty, reduce the quality of instruction, and limit the range of services schools can offer students.

Budget Constraints

School administrators must often navigate tight budgets, balancing competing priorities such as staffing, facilities maintenance, and student services. Limited funding can delay hiring, cut extracurricular programs, or reduce professional development opportunities — all of which affect the overall quality of education.

Student Safety and Well-being

Ensuring the safety and well-being of students remains a top concern for school leaders. School administrators are responsible for developing safety protocols, managing emergency situations, and addressing mental health concerns. Recent data shows that:

• 11% of public schools agree that crime around their school poses a threat to student safety during commutes.
• 38% of schools report that traffic patterns around their campus pose risks to students.

Principals must balance security measures with maintaining a welcoming and supportive school environment.

Community Engagement and Communication

School administrators serve as a bridge between the school and the community. They must manage relationships with parents, school boards, and local organizations while addressing concerns about educational policies, equity, and student outcomes. Strong communication skills are essential for building trust and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Adapting to Educational Trends

The landscape of K-12 education is constantly evolving, with new technologies, instructional methods, and policy changes shaping the way schools operate. Administrators must stay informed about emerging trends, such as personalized learning, digital equity, and mental health support, to lead their schools effectively.

These challenges underscore the multifaceted role of K-12 education administrators. The next section will explore key trends in education that future principals should be aware of, helping them navigate the ever-changing landscape of school leadership.

How Do I Choose the Right Certification Program for School Leadership?

When evaluating principal certification programs or advanced degree options, consider factors such as program accreditation, curriculum rigor, and alignment with state licensing standards. Analyze whether the program offers specialized leadership training, effective mentorship opportunities, and practical experiences that support real-world challenges. Additionally, assess program duration and flexibility—options like 1 year masters programs online may provide an efficient route to certification. Comparing cost structures, financial aid opportunities, and post-graduation job placement rates can further inform your decision, ensuring that the chosen program supports both academic excellence and professional growth.

What trends in K-12 education should principals be aware of?

K-12 education is constantly evolving, and school principals must stay informed about emerging trends to lead effectively. Being aware of these developments helps future administrators make informed decisions, improve school performance, and create supportive learning environments. For aspiring principals, understanding these trends is essential for preparing to lead schools in a changing educational landscape.

Technology Integration and Digital Equity

The increasing use of technology in education presents both opportunities and challenges for school administrators. Digital tools can enhance learning experiences, but disparities in access to devices and internet connectivity remain a pressing issue. Principals must prioritize digital equity initiatives that ensure all students have access to the resources they need. This includes securing funding for devices, providing digital literacy training, and addressing connectivity gaps.

Mental Health and Student Well-being

Student mental health has become a major concern in recent years, with many schools reporting increased demand for counseling services. Principals are expected to support mental health programs by hiring school counselors, implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula, and fostering a culture of well-being. Balancing academic expectations with student mental health needs is an increasingly vital aspect of school leadership.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remains a priority in many school systems. Principals play a key role in developing equitable policies, addressing achievement gaps, and creating inclusive environments where all students feel valued. This requires ongoing professional development, collaboration with community organizations, and data-driven strategies to close opportunity gaps.

Personalized Learning and Curriculum Innovation

Personalized learning approaches, which tailor instruction to individual student needs, are gaining momentum in K-12 education. Administrators are tasked with adopting curriculum innovations that support differentiated instruction, project-based learning, and student choice — while ensuring alignment with state standards. Investing in teacher training and technology infrastructure is crucial for successfully implementing these models.

Community and Family Engagement

School principals are increasingly seen as community leaders who strengthen connections between schools and families. Effective family engagement strategies involve transparent communication, inclusive decision-making processes, and partnerships with local organizations. This collaborative approach can improve student outcomes and build trust between schools and their communities.

Awareness of these trends not only helps principals respond to current educational challenges but also positions them as leaders capable of shaping the future of education. For those considering public policy careers beyond school administration, staying informed about these issues provides a solid foundation for influencing broader education policies and advocating for systemic improvements. The final section explores the job market outlook for K-12 administrators and what aspiring principals can expect as they enter the profession.

Should an Easy Online Bachelor's Degree Be the Starting Point for a Leadership Career?

A robust undergraduate program lays the groundwork for effective school leadership by cultivating critical pedagogical skills, strategic problem-solving, and clear communication. Prospective principals benefit from opportunities that blend academic theory with practical application, setting a strong foundation for later specialized studies. Exploring easy online bachelor degrees can offer flexible and accessible pathways that align with the demands of today's educational environments, ensuring future administrators build the competencies needed to transition successfully into advanced certifications and leadership roles.

What is the job market for principal/administrator positions?

The job market for K-12 principals is projected to be highly competitive in the coming years. From 2023 to 2033, employment of elementary, middle, and high school principals is expected to decline by 1%, with an estimated 20,800 job openings each year due to retirements and workforce transitions. Factors like student enrollment rates, school consolidation, and state budgets will significantly impact job availability. While the demand for school administrators may be limited, those with strong leadership skills and advanced qualifications will have better prospects. Aspiring principals can enhance their competitiveness by earning relevant credentials through easy masters degrees online — programs that offer flexible learning options without compromising academic quality.

Here's What Principals/Administrators Have to Say About Their Certification and Requirements

• The principal certification process pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. Balancing coursework, exam preparation, and teaching full-time was difficult, but the knowledge I gained helped me become a more confident leader. The certification program's focus on instructional leadership and equity made me realize that school leadership isn't just about managing operations—it's about creating environments where every student can thrive. Now, I feel equipped to advocate for policies that uplift both students and educators in my district. Liz
• Pursuing my administrative certification while working full-time was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but it completely reshaped my career. The flexibility of an online education administration degree allowed me to earn my credentials without stepping away from the classroom. What I appreciated most was how the program connected leadership theory with real-world scenarios. Now as a principal, I apply those lessons daily—whether I'm managing budgets, supporting teachers, or resolving conflicts. Gabriel
• I was a teacher for over a decade before deciding to pursue principal certification, and I never imagined how much the experience would change my perspective. The process taught me that leadership is about serving others—both students and educators. The continuing education requirements keep me updated on the latest educational trends, from trauma-informed practices to culturally responsive teaching. It's not always easy, but the certification process prepared me to lead with empathy and purpose. Karen

Can Fast Online Degrees Enhance My Path to Becoming a Principal?

Pursuing online accelerated programs provides a strategic opportunity to build targeted leadership skills with operational flexibility. This approach integrates rigorous academic standards with contemporary educational practices, allowing candidates to synthesize theory and practice effectively. Institutions offering fast online degrees design their curricula specifically for professionals eager to progress in K-12 administration without delaying their career trajectories.

What financial aid options are available for aspiring school leaders?

Aspiring school leaders can mitigate financial challenges by exploring a range of aid options beyond traditional loans. Scholarship opportunities, state-sponsored grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs are tailored for education professionals seeking advanced qualifications. Reviewing program-specific financial support and flexible payment plans is crucial in selecting a pathway that aligns with one’s budget and scheduling needs. For additional funding opportunities, candidates should assess offerings from the best online colleges that accept FAFSA to secure comprehensive financial support while advancing their certification journey.

Is a Short-Term Associate Degree a Viable Starting Point for a Leadership Career?

An accelerated associate degree can provide a swift entry into the education field for professionals seeking to transition into academic settings. For some, earning a degree in 6 months offers a pathway to acquire foundational knowledge and practical skills that support further academic pursuits. This option may suit career changers aiming to establish eligibility for transfer credits toward bachelor’s or graduate programs, ultimately streamlining the journey toward administrative certification. Evaluating program accreditation and transfer policies is crucial to ensure these short-term credentials align with long-term career objectives.

How Can I Identify an Affordable Online Bachelor's Program That Aligns with Certification Requirements?

When assessing online undergraduate programs for a career in school leadership, it is crucial to verify that the program is accredited, offers a curriculum designed to meet state certification prerequisites, and provides flexible learning schedules for working educators. Prioritize programs that include practical components relevant to school administration and offer clear pathways to advanced certification. Comparing cost and quality metrics—such as outcomes data and graduate success rates—can also guide your decision-making process. For instance, candidates may find value in reviewing an affordable online bachelor's degree program that balances cost-effectiveness with academic rigor, ensuring a solid foundation for transition into higher-level leadership roles.

Can Supplementary Online Certifications Elevate My School Leadership Prospects?

Supplementary online certifications address specialized competencies that traditional degree programs may not fully cover. They enable aspiring principals to demonstrate proficiency in innovative leadership, fiscal management, technology integration, and crisis management. Targeted credentials can enhance a candidate’s profile in competitive markets by validating niche expertise and a commitment to continuous professional growth. Moreover, complementing formal education with such certifications supports strategic career advancement by closing skill gaps and aligning with evolving educational demands. For instance, pursuing high paying online certifications can offer an additional pathway to distinguish oneself and drive long-term success in school administration.

Key Findings

• K-12 education administrators play a vital role in the US education system, with approximately 302,580 professionals employed in 2023 — the majority working in elementary and secondary schools.
• The average annual salary for K-12 education administrators was $111,020 in 2023, with earning potential varying significantly depending on location, experience, and industry. Those working in local government or management of companies and enterprises earned higher-than-average salaries.
• California, New York, and Texas employ the largest numbers of K-12 education administrators, but salaries differ widely — ranging from $94,650 in Texas to $145,530 in New York in 2023.
• The job outlook for K-12 principals is projected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033, with an estimated 20,800 annual job openings driven by retirements and career transitions rather than overall employment growth.
• Staffing shortages remain a major challenge for K-12 schools, with 50% of public-school leaders reporting their schools were understaffed before the 2024–2025 school year — particularly in special education and non-teaching positions.
• Continuing education and leadership development programs help school administrators adapt to evolving challenges, particularly in areas like equity, safety, and public policy — strengthening their ability to lead schools in changing educational landscapes.

Other Things You Should Know About Principal/Administrative Certification and Requirements

What is principal certification?

Principal certification is a credential that qualifies individuals to work as school administrators in K-12 education. It is issued by state education departments to candidates who meet specific education, experience, and exam requirements. Principal certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills in leadership, instructional supervision, and school management to oversee the operations of a school. The certification process typically includes completing a master's degree in educational leadership or administration, passing a licensure exam, and gaining professional teaching experience.

How do you become a principal in the US?

To become a principal in the US, candidates typically need to follow a structured process. The first step is earning a bachelor's degree, usually in education or a related field, followed by gaining classroom teaching experience. Most states require a master's degree in educational leadership or administration, which provides advanced training in school management, curriculum development, and leadership strategies. Candidates must then complete a principal preparation program, pass a state-approved licensure exam, and apply for state certification. Some states offer alternative pathways for experienced educators with leadership potential.

What is the licensure exam for principal?

The licensure exam for principals is an assessment that evaluates a candidate's knowledge of school administration, leadership practices, and educational laws. Many states require the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA), which tests competencies in instructional leadership, school operations, and ethical practices. Some states may use their own certification exams. The exam typically includes multiple-choice questions and case study-based scenarios. Preparation time can range from several weeks to a few months, depending on the candidate's prior knowledge and experience.

What does a K-12 principal do on a daily basis?

A K-12 principal manages the daily operations of a school, balancing administrative duties with instructional leadership. Their responsibilities include overseeing staff, developing school policies, and managing budgets. They work closely with teachers to improve curriculum and student performance while addressing the needs of students and parents. Principals also handle student discipline, coordinate safety procedures, and ensure compliance with education laws. Effective principals prioritize creating a positive learning environment and fostering community partnerships.

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Elementary, middle, and high school principals. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 28, 2024, from BLS.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023 – 11-9032 education administrators, kindergarten through secondary. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 28, 2024, from BLS.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Postsecondary education administrators. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 28, 2024, from BLS.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023 – 11-9033 education administrators, postsecondary. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 28, 2024, from BLS.
• National Center for Education Statistics. (2025). School Pulse Panel: Surveying high-priority, education-related topics. U.S. Department of Education. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from NCES.
• Peck, D. (2025, January 3). 15 teacher shortage statistics (2025). Retrieved February 28, 2025, from Devlin Peck.