Principal

A Principal provides strategic leadership and manages school operations, guiding staff and students toward academic success and well-being. They set educational goals, oversee budgets, implement policies, and foster community relations.

Principals ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment, support professional development, and mentor teachers. Engaging with parents, local communities, and other stakeholders is also key to promoting collaboration and enhancing student outcomes.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $163,800
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a principal?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended

Bachelor of Arts and Master of Teaching
On Campus
4 years
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Academic Tutor Education Manager Principal
Secondary School Teacher
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Academic Tutor Education Manager Principal Secondary School Teacher + 1 more

Master of Education (Educational Leadership)
Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $45,400
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Assistant Principal Deputy Principal Educational Administrator
Principal Program Leader Early Childhood Center Manager Education Coordinator Education Manager
+ 5 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Assistant Principal Deputy Principal Educational Administrator Principal Program Leader Early Childhood Center Manager Education Coordinator Education Manager + 5 more

Master of Education (Leadership and Management)
Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $64,616
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Assistant Principal Educational Administrator Lead Teacher
Principal Early Childhood Center Manager Deputy Principal
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Assistant Principal Educational Administrator Lead Teacher Principal Early Childhood Center Manager Deputy Principal + 3 more

Master of Education
Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $36,150
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Education Consultant Principal Curriculum Developer
Education Researcher Educational Administrator Curriculum Planner Midwifery Educator
+ 4 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Education Consultant Principal Curriculum Developer Education Researcher Educational Administrator Curriculum Planner Midwifery Educator + 4 more

Doctor of Education
Blended, On Campus, Online
3 - 4 years
$0 - $118,512
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
University Professor Principal Academic Researcher
Educational Administrator Superintendent Director of Education
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
University Professor Principal Academic Researcher Educational Administrator Superintendent Director of Education + 3 more

Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership
Blended, Online
6 - 8 months
$8,418 - $13,680
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Instructional Leader Assistant Principal Curriculum Developer
Deputy Principal Principal Lead Educator Education Coordinator Education Manager
+ 5 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Instructional Leader Assistant Principal Curriculum Developer Deputy Principal Principal Lead Educator Education Coordinator Education Manager + 5 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

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Courses by location

Further reading

How To Become a Primary School Teacher in Australia

24th September 2022

Is Primary School Teaching Right for You?

22nd April 2024

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023