College Administrators

Employment of postsecondary education administrators is projected to grow 3 percent (or as fast as the average for all careers) from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Demand will be strong due to expected increases in student enrollment through 2031 (the end of the prediction cycle), as well as a large number of expected retirements during the next decade. Competition for prestigious positions as heads of faculty and deans will be stiff. Many faculty at institutions of higher learning have the educational and experience requirements for these jobs.

Specifically, additional admissions officers will be needed to process students’ applications, and fundraising positions may face less competition and have more openings than academic administrative jobs. More registrars will be needed to register students for classes and guarantee that they meet graduation requirements. More student affairs workers will be required to manage housing assignments and plan events for students. Those who are already working within a department seeking an administrator, those who hold a master's degree, and those willing to relocate will have the best chances of getting administrative positions.