Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
College Administrators oversee various aspects of college and university operations, including academic affairs, student services, and business administration. They play a key role in shaping educational policies, managing staff, and ensuring a high-quality learning environment for students.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: Less than 5 years
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 3.5% (average)
Annual job openings: 15,100
Direct AI exposure: 34% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 61% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $105K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $65K per year | $81K per year | $105K per year | $144K per year | $216K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $54K above the national average. | ||||
College Administrators work in higher education institutions, such as universities and community colleges. Their work environment is primarily office-based but may involve interacting with students, faculty, and other staff on campus. Administrators often attend meetings, conferences, and campus events.
College Administrators are integral to the successful operation and strategic direction of higher education institutions. They must balance administrative duties with academic leadership, often serving as a bridge between faculty, students, and institutional governance. Administrators need to have a thorough understanding of the educational landscape, including current challenges and opportunities within higher education.
Effective communication and leadership skills are crucial, as College Administrators interact with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including educators, students, government agencies, and the community. They must be adept at conflict resolution, negotiation, and consensus-building.
Staying current with educational trends, technology, and legal issues in higher education is essential. Administrators must be forward-thinking, capable of anticipating and responding to changes in educational policy, student needs, and academic research and teaching methodologies.
Typically, a master's degree in education administration, academic affairs, or a related field is required. In some cases, particularly for higher-ranking positions, a doctoral degree may be preferred or required.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
