The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides insights into trends for the future of education and educational careers, including job outcomes and skill requirements. We’ve evaluated predictions, trends, and other useful information and assessed how Cairn’s EdD prepares you to meet these emerging demands.
BLS Data on the Future of Education
Postsecondary Education Administrators
Postsecondary education administration employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, aligning with average job growth rates. Increasing college enrollment will drive demand for roles such as admissions officers, provosts, registrars, and student affairs professionals.
Top Executives
Overall employment of top executives is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This makes leadership positions like CEO or CFO in higher education an excellent opportunity for EdD graduates.
Postsecondary Teachers
Employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, also faster than the average for all occupations. Even if you yourself are not interested in full-time teaching, those interested in an EdD will be responsible for leading this fast-growing group of professionals.
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
For elementary, middle and high school principals, BLS projects a 1 percent decline from 2023 to 2033. While one of the few careers in the educational world projected with a measure of decline, those with the right educational background will be set up for success.
*data as of January 2025
Other Relevant Trends
Some general trends in the coming years point to promising opportunities for those looking to earn an EdD, especially in leadership and specialized teaching. Key insights include:
Career Growth in Leadership Roles:
EdD holders are well-positioned for administrative and leadership positions in higher education, such as deans, provosts, or school superintendents. As seen with the career trends above, most positions will see growth. These roles are associated with competitive salaries. For example, the median pay for postsecondary education administrators in 2023 was $102,610.
Career Security:
Employment Rate (those holding a doctorate)
Doctoral degree holders experience low unemployment rates—just 1.6%, according to recent trends. With an EdD, you gain a competitive edge and long-term job security in education.
Lifelong Learning and Micro-Credentials:
Institutions are focusing on modular learning and micro-credentials to meet demands for lifelong education. EdD professionals with expertise in these innovative and niche educational models find themselves better prepared, able to lead others with vision and confidence.
Research-Driven Decision Making:
Recently, recognition for the need for data-driven strategies in education and organizational development has risen. Unlike a masters, which highlights more general application, an EdD dives into research-based methodologies. Focused and technical courses prepare you to both research and apply, taking you to the next level of leadership.
For those pursuing or holding an EdD, aligning skill sets with these emerging trends—particularly in leadership, micro-credentials, and lifelong learning strategies—ensure robust career growth and influence. But what are those key skills?
The Future of Education: Are These Necessary Skills on Your Resume?
Understanding trends in education careers is vital, but equally important is mastering the skills these roles demand. According to BLS, these are the key skills essential for success across educational leadership roles:
- Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and relationship-building are critical for administrators at all levels to work effectively with staff, students, and stakeholders.
- Data Proficiency: Administrators must adapt to using education management systems and data analysis tools that inform decision-making.
- Organizational Skills: Managing complex systems like student records and coordinating large teams are key requirements.
- Leadership in addressing various challenges is increasingly important across all levels of educational leadership.
- Problem-Solving: Schools and institutions face constant challenges, from addressing the pandemic’s aftermath to navigating student learning difficulties. Leaders need experience and expertise to solve these problems effectively.
Cairn’s EdD Sets You Apart and Up for Success
The future of education is in the hands of leaders like you. An EdD is a way to holistically prepare you for today’s challenges, deepen your knowledge, and cultivate skills that propel your career. Cairn’s EdD is prepared to equip you with these skills and tools—and much more. These unique program features will shape you into a leader that is set apart and prepared for the future of education:
Specialized Tracks
Cairn’s EdD program offers two specializations within the EdD program that serve the needs projected for the future of education. This customization allows you to tailor specific skills toward the career you want to have.
K–12 Leadership
With courses such as School Law, Organizational Theory and Team Building, Data Analysis, School Improvement for Educational Leaders, and others, this track prepares you to navigate the K–12 educational sphere at any type of school.
Strategic Leadership
In the Strategic Leadership track, you will take courses like Leading in Complex Environments, Advanced Data Analytics, and Cultivating Organizational Creativity and Innovation. These allow you to tackle a broad scope of skills while still honing in on particular and crucial leadership qualities.
Early Dissertation Support
The nature of a doctorate requires research. While some programs (especially online ones) have minimal guidance, Cairn works with you on your dissertation right from the start. This allows you to not only have better control of your busy schedule, but also to research and present the best possible dissertation.
Christ-Centered Worldview
Today’s schools are not immune to the complexities and issues of the rest of the world. Addressing topics like truth, identity, and other challenges well proves difficult, especially for someone responsible for leading others. Cairn’s EdD curriculum won’t compromise on the truths of Scripture. Instead, it is the source that instructs you how to treat others in love, find compassion in a broken world, and prize humility in leadership. This instruction sets you up to balance interpersonal skills with problem solving that models Christ.
Flexible, Unique Program Model
By blending online format with a select few cohort training days (which can be attended online synchronously or in person), you will receive training tailored to you. You’ll reap the benefits of the flexibility of online school with the personal nature of our cohort model to both learn well and better know your peers and professors.
Ready To Be A Leader?
You have the power to shape the future of education. By pursuing an EdD, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to lead with integrity and wisdom. Explore Cairn’s EdD program today and take the first step toward transforming education—and your career!
