According to the American College President Study, the most common college degrees held by university presidents are:
- Bachelor’s degree: 81%
- Master’s degree: 8%
- Doctorate: 6%
- EdD: 4%
- Other: 1%
The most common fields of study for university presidents are:
- Education: 35%
- Business: 15%
- Humanities: 14%
- Social sciences: 12%
- Natural sciences: 8%
It is important to note that these are just averages, and the specific degrees held by university presidents can vary widely. For example, some university presidents may have two or more degrees, while others may have only one. Additionally, the specific fields of study that are most common for university presidents can also vary depending on the type of university. For example, university presidents at research universities are more likely to have degrees in the natural sciences or social sciences, while university presidents at liberal arts colleges are more likely to have degrees in the humanities or education. (Bard 06252023)
Should university presidents have degrees in education or business? Or should they be scientific researchers? Should they have science degrees? If the university is selling the value of a university degree to you, what is the value of a degree as a president of a university?
Do we want them to be Fundraisers? Business moguls? Educators? Great managers? Great leaders?
Is a university president with a degree in clarinet qualified to run and lead a university? What is the value of that degree in music? If it’s a school of music, does that make a difference?
Hmmm…
Let’s ask Bard again:
Should a university president have a degree in business or education? What makes a person qualified to run a university?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the ideal degree for a university president will vary depending on the specific university and its needs. However, both business and education degrees can be valuable for university presidents.
A degree in business can provide a president with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage a large and complex organization. This includes skills in financial management, strategic planning, and risk management. A degree in education can provide a president with a deep understanding of the academic mission of a university, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today.
In addition to a degree in business or education, there are a number of other factors that can make a person qualified to run a university. These include:
- Experience in higher education: A president should have a deep understanding of the workings of a university, including its faculty, staff, students, and curriculum.
- Leadership skills: A president must be able to effectively lead and motivate a large and diverse group of people.
- Vision: A president should have a clear vision for the future of the university and the ability to articulate that vision to others.
- Communication skills: A president must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences, including faculty, staff, students, donors, and the general public.
Ultimately, the best degree for a university president is the one that will give them the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the role. Whether that is a degree in business, education, or something else, will depend on the specific university and its needs.
Here are some additional thoughts on the topic:
- Some people believe that a business degree is more important for a university president, as it will give them the skills they need to manage the university’s finances and operations.
- Others believe that an education degree is more important, as it will give them the knowledge they need to understand the academic mission of the university and the challenges facing higher education today.
- Ultimately, the best degree for a university president is the one that will give them the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the role.
I hope this helps!
“The best degree for a _________________ is the one that will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the role.”
Does it matter what degree you choose, or does it matter what you learn? And what is it you need to learn? Communication skills? Leadership skills? Understanding of the workings skills? Vision for your own future? What is it you really need to learn at university?
Does your degree really matter?
According to a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, about 46% of college graduates end up working in a field that is different from their major. This number has been increasing in recent years, and it is now estimated that more than half of all college graduates will work in a different field at some point in their careers.
There are a number of reasons why college graduates may end up working in a different field. Some graduates may find that their chosen field is not as rewarding or as lucrative as they expected. Others may find that they are not qualified for the jobs that are available in their field. Still others may simply be drawn to a different field that offers them more opportunities or a better quality of life.
There are a few things that college graduates can do to increase their chances of working in their chosen field. First, they should make sure that they choose a major that is in demand and that offers good career prospects. Second, they should get as much relevant experience as possible, either through internships or part-time jobs. Third, they should network with people in their field and stay up-to-date on the latest trends.
Even if college graduates do end up working in a different field, their degree can still be valuable. The skills and knowledge that they learn in college can be applied to a variety of jobs, and their degree can help them to get their foot in the door. Additionally, their degree can give them a competitive edge in the job market, as employers are increasingly looking for candidates with college degrees.
Here are some of the factors that can contribute to college graduates working in a different field:
- The changing job market: The job market is constantly changing, and some fields may become more or less in demand over time. This can make it difficult for graduates to find jobs in their chosen field.
- The individual’s interests and skills: Some graduates may find that their interests and skills are better suited for a different field than their major. For example, a graduate with a degree in English may find that they are more interested in working in marketing or public relations.
- The availability of jobs: The availability of jobs in a particular field can also affect whether or not graduates are able to find work in their chosen field. For example, if there are a lot of graduates with degrees in a particular field, it may be more difficult to find a job in that field.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to work in a field that is different from your degree is a personal one. There are a number of factors to consider, and the best decision for one person may not be the best decision for another. (Bard 06252023)
Thanks Bard. Did I need to pay for all those English classes?