Highest Paying Higher Education Administration Jobs for Master Degree Holders

If you’re pursuing or considering a master’s degree in higher education administration, you’re investing in a pathway to impactful leadership roles. 

Higher education administration offers a variety of rewarding careers, with opportunities to shape the future of institutions and make a difference in students’ lives. But which roles offer the highest pay, and what do they require?

Using data from the 2019-2020 Professionals in Higher Education Survey by the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR), we explore the top 10 highest-paying positions in higher education administration. 

While many of these roles require a master’s degree in higher education administration, some may also call for additional or different qualifications or experience.

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1. Chief Executive Officer, Single Institution or Campus Within a System

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $309,575
What the Job Entails:
The CEO of a single institution or campus oversees all aspects of strategy, operations, and leadership. They are responsible for ensuring financial stability, academic excellence, and alignment with the institution's mission.

Requirements:
This role typically requires a master’s degree in higher education administration, business administration (MBA), or a related field. Significant leadership experience in academia is essential.

2. Dean of a Law College

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $273,916
What the Job Entails:
Deans manage the overall operations of their schools college of law, including curriculum development, faculty recruitment, accreditation, and fundraising. 

In law schools, the dean often liaises with the legal community to ensure program alignment with industry standards.

Requirements:
Law college deans often require a juris doctorate (J.D.) along with leadership experience in academia or legal practice. A background in higher education administration can be a strong asset.

3. Chief Academic Affairs Officer (Provost)

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $197,162
What the Job Entails:
Provosts are the chief academic officers of collegiate institutions. They oversee academic policies, faculty affairs, and curriculum development and ensure the institution meets its educational goals.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in higher education administration or a related field, coupled with extensive experience in academic leadership.

4. Executive Vice President or Vice Chancellor

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $191,257
What the Job Entails:
EVPs or vice chancellors are responsible for strategic planning and operational management. They often report directly to the president and may oversee multiple departments, from academics to student affairs.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in higher education administration or business administration, alongside proven leadership experience in higher education.

5. Chief Business Officer

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $187,700
What the Job Entails:
The chief business officer manages the institution’s financial health, overseeing budgets, financial planning, and administrative operations.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or higher education administration is common, along with strong financial management experience.

6. Dean of an Engineering College

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $186,670
What the Job Entails:
This dean leads an engineering college, overseeing curriculum development, research programs, faculty, and partnerships with industry.

Requirements:
Typically requires a master’s or doctorate in engineering, with leadership experience in academia.

7. Dean of a Business College

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $176,295
What the Job Entails:
The dean of a business college shapes the educational experience for business students, oversees faculty hiring, manages budgets, and builds relationships with the business community.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or higher education administration is common, with experience in academia or corporate leadership.

8. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree:  $175,008
What the Job Entails:
University CFOs oversee financial strategy, budgeting, and reporting for the institution. They work to ensure financial sustainability and compliance with regulations.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in higher education administration, finance, or business administration, coupled with extensive financial management experience.

9. Chief Legal Affairs Officer

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $175,000
What the Job Entails:
This role involves managing legal matters for the institution, including compliance, contracts, risk management, and litigation.

Requirements:
A law degree (J.D.) is often required, with experience in higher education law or administration.

10. Chief Development or Advancement Officer

Median Salary With a Master’s Degree: $172,844
What the Job Entails:
Development officers lead fundraising efforts, alumni relations, and philanthropic programs to support the institution’s mission.

Requirements:
A master’s degree in higher education administration, nonprofit management, or a related field, with experience in fundraising and donor relations.

What These Roles Have in Common

While each of these roles has unique responsibilities, they share common traits:

• Leadership Skills: Strong organizational and leadership abilities are essential.

• Strategic Vision: These roles require a clear understanding of institutional goals and how to achieve them.

• Educational Expertise: A master’s degree in higher education administration or a related field is often the minimum requirement.

Why Choose a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration?

A master’s degree in higher education administration equips professionals with the skills needed to lead in a dynamic and rewarding field. From managing academic programs to overseeing institutional operations, the opportunities are vast.

By pursuing advanced education and building experience, you can position yourself for a role in one of these highly compensated positions—and make a lasting impact on the future of higher education.

Are you ready to explore your potential in higher education administration? Let us know how we can help guide your journey!