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The Global Insight

How do you become a high school principal?

Author

Christopher Davis

Updated on March 19, 2026

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, becoming a high school principal generally requires that applicants possess a Master’s degree. The degree is typically focused in educational leadership or educational administration, since those are the skills that experienced educators need to learn to pass certification.

What does it take to become a principal?

Principals usually need at least a master’s degree in education, often in education leadership or education administration. Some prospective school principals may seek a higher degree in education administration, such as an Educational Specialist (EdS) degree, a Doctor of Education (EdD), or a PhD in Education.

Why do you want to be a high school principal?

As a principal, communication and interpersonal skills are key to a rewarding and successful career in a leadership position. As leaders of their schools, principals must help guide curriculum development with the teachers, providing insight and leadership to meet both student and teacher needs.

Why do you want to become a principal?

If you feel called to become a principal, chances are you already have the primary prerequisites for the job — a passion for leadership and education, and a desire to make a difference in students’ lives.

What do principals do all day?

Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage all school operations, including daily school activities, building maintenance, and food service. It’s their duty to provide a safe and productive learning environment and see that their school meets performance standards.

What are the qualities of a good principal?

5 Qualities of a Good School Principal

  • An effective principal must be a visionary.
  • An effective principal must exhibit leadership qualities.
  • A principal must be an excellent listener.
  • An effective principal must be fair and consistent.
  • An effective principal must be a bridge builder.

What makes an effective principal?

Great principals establish high, reasonable and clear expectations that don’t keep teachers guessing. This approach creates trust, allowing teachers to be comfortable with taking ideas or problems to the principal.

How to become a principal of a school?

Teachers prepare for advancement into school principal positions by earning a master’s or doctoral degree in education leadership or educational administration. Master’s degree programs in education administration typically take two years to complete and may require students to hold a teaching license prior to enrollment.

Can you become a principal without being a teacher?

It is possible to become a principal without first becoming a teacher. However, working as a teacher gives you valuable experience into how schools work, and most schools prefer to hire principals that have previously worked as teachers. How much money do school principal’s make?

What’s the most rewarding part of being a school principal?

The most rewarding aspect is that you have a greater impact on the school as a whole. You are the school leader. As the leader, your daily decisions impact a larger number of students and teachers than you impacted as a classroom teacher.

When do you start looking for a principal job?

Interview for a Principal’s Job – Once you have earned your license/certification, then it is time to start looking for a job. Do not be discouraged if you do not land one as quickly as you thought. Principal’s jobs are intensely competitive and can be difficult to land. Go into every interview confident and prepared.