Education Requirements
In general, school principals need to hold a master's degree in order to be hired by a school district. Your undergraduate studies can relate to early childhood or elementary education as a way to give you a foundation in how children think and learn. For public schools, it's common for principals to earn a master's degree that relates to education leadership or education administration.
These graduate degree programs, which can last about two years, are likely to build on your undergraduate education skills and teach you how to manage a school setting. These curricula cover topics that include working with teachers to effectively teach students, develop curriculum for all elementary school grades and evaluate school employees. A graduate degree may also help you learn how to manage staff, serve as a school leader and understand school budgets.
Licensure and Credentials
Aside from the education requirements, many principals start in the classroom as teachers before moving up to become assistant principals and eventually, school principals. Licensure as a teacher may be required in order for you to become licensed as principal or school administrator. A certain number of years teaching may be required as well. The licensure requirements will vary depending on which state you want to work, but for the most part, you'll need to earn a master's degree and pass an examination, like the School Leaders Licensure Assessment. The licensure process for principals at private elementary schools can be different. In many cases, a license or certificate is not required.
Job Postings from Real Employers
No matter the location, the job requirements are often similar: candidates need to be licensed, have a master's degree and experience within a school setting. Check out these job openings from real employers posted by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in April 2012:
- A public elementary school in California is looking for a full-time principal who can serve as the chief executive of the school. Your duties will cover a wide range from managing staff, overseeing the academic program for students and meeting with the school community regularly. The job requires a master's degree, school administrator credentials as well as classroom and management experience.
- A private school in Missouri is hiring a principal/headmaster who can lead the Christian school that serves students in grades preschool through eighth grade. You'll need a graduate degree and must meet certification guidelines set by the state of Missouri.
- A public school in Oregon seeks an elementary school principal to provide educational leadership, meet with parents and the community and manage teachers. The school is looking for job candidates with a master's degree, past experience working within a school and school administrator licenses.
