The education sector in Canada offers a range of high-paying jobs for educators, administrators, policymakers, and researchers. With digital learning playing a significant role, the sector continues to attract investments and open up opportunities for learners to advance into leadership, curriculum development, and higher-level academic positions. Furthermore, with several high-paying administrative and leadership positions available within universities and school district administrations, professionals have a significant scope for growth.
Professionals in the field of education in Canada are compensated at a competitive level, although it varies depending on the role, experience, and type of institution. For example, senior or executive roles, such as the Vice-Chancellor of a university, could earn between CAD 122,000 and CAD 210,000 per year. Similarly, Professors and Postsecondary Academics in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 64,000 and CAD 208,000 per year. The blog further explores the top 10 highest-paying jobs in Education in Canada, as well as the qualifications that drive these roles.
Salary source: Payscale, as of Aug 2, and Nov 6, 2025
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Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Education in Canada (With Salary Ranges)
Here is a list of the top 10 best-paid education jobs, along with the typical qualifications and experience required for each.
| Role | Salary (Range) | Typical Qualification / Experience Required |
| Academic Dean / Director of Academic Affairs | CAD 133,000 – CAD 221,000 | Doctorate or Master’s with 10–15 years of academic experience |
| University / College Professor (senior) | CAD 64,000 – CAD 208,000 | PhD with extensive teaching & research portfolio |
| Superintendent or Director of Education (K–12) | CAD 110,000 – CAD 154,000 | Master’s/Doctorate in Education Leadership |
| Principal (Secondary School) | CAD 62,000 – CAD 131,000 | Master’s in Education Administration, along with 10+ years of teaching experience |
| Corporate Trainer | CAD 47,000 – CAD 102,000 | Bachelor’s/Master’s in HR, Education |
| Instructional Designer | CAD 54,000 – CAD, 88,000 | Master’s in Instructional Design or EdTech |
| Educational Consultant / Policy Advisor | CAD 33,000 – CAD 109,000 | Master’s or Doctorate in Education Policy or Curriculum |
| Director of Special Education | CAD 47,000 – CAD 75,000 | Master’s in Special Education |
| Corporate Training Director | CAD 62,000 – CAD 153,000 | MBA or Master’s in L&D / Organizational Psychology |
| Postsecondary Administrator | CAD 70,000 – CAD 108,000 | Master’s in Education (M.Ed) in Education Administration |
Source: Payscale, as of July 5, Aug 2, Sept. 11, Nov 6, 2025
What Skills, Qualifications & Credentials Drive Higher Salaries in Education
When it comes to administrative or policy-related roles with higher salaries, most employers prefer candidates with higher degrees, such as Master’s or Doctoral degrees in Education, Educational Leadership, or Curriculum Design. Along with higher qualifications, the ability to strategically utilize digital learning tools, create instructional designs, and engage in data-driven decision-making is equally valuable. Additionally, professional certifications, such as a diploma in educational leadership or an EdTech certification, also have a positive impact on careers.
Here are some factors that drive the best-paid jobs in the education sector:
- Master’s or Doctorate in Education, Educational Leadership, Curriculum Design, or a related field.
- Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS), instructional design, and online pedagogy.
- Expertise in data-driven decision-making and educational policy analysis.
- Strong track record in research and curriculum innovation.
- Ongoing professional development through upskilling.
Also read: Career Paths After an EdD or PhD in Education
How Industry Trends & Regional Factors Affect Education Salaries
Education salaries are significantly influenced by a combination of industry-wide trends as mentioned below:
- Teacher Shortages: A high demand for educators, particularly in specific subjects or regions, may lead to increased salaries as school systems compete for a qualified workforce. Conversely, an oversupply of teachers in a specific subject may result in wage stagnation.
- Demand for Specialized Skills: In line with typical labor market trends, there is a growing demand for specialized skills in the education sector. Hence, teachers with expertise in in-demand areas, such as special education, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, may receive better pay.
- Cost of Living: The primary variable that determines educators’ salaries is the cost of living, including housing costs in a particular region. Many regions provide additional compensation or specific pay ranges for teachers in areas of high cost-of-living to ensure that teachers’ salaries remain competitive and provide a reasonable standard of living.
- Professional Development and Status: The high status and reputation gained in teaching jobs and in the education sector, as well as the opportunities for professional development and career advancement, can also act as incentives for recruitment and retention.
Also read: Salary After Doctorate in Education in Canada
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If you want to amplify your education career with leadership and management programs, you may enroll in various courses offered through the upGrad platform in collaboration with reputable global universities. These programs are designed to equip educators and administrators with strategic, data-driven, and people management skills. They help professionals transition into leadership roles, driving institutional growth and adapting to the evolving global education landscape with confidence.
Here are some programs to explore:
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) from the University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from Edgewood University
- Dual Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Degree
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) from Edgewood University
Must read articles:
- Is upGrad’s M.Ed. for Teachers the Right Way to Build a Career in Canada?
- Full-Time vs. Part-Time M.Ed. Programs in Canada
- What is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)? A Complete Guide
- Is a Doctor of Education Worth it in Canada?
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FAQs on Highest Paying Jobs in Education
In Canada’s education sector, top-paying roles typically include university professors, corporate learning and development directors, curriculum and instruction directors, and school superintendents.
In most cases, a master’s degree is a sufficient credential to pursue several top positions in educational leadership, such as school principal or administrator, particularly when paired with relevant work experience and leadership skills. However, doctorates are typically required for more prestigious leadership roles, such as superintendent, college president, or dean, and they can also lead to higher salaries.
The most valued and highest paying teaching jobs in Canada often require a blend of technical, analytical, and leadership skills, including proficiency in data analysis, project management, cloud computing, and strong communication and leadership abilities.
Job opportunities in the education sector can vary across Canada’s provinces due to provincial policies, population needs, and funding priorities. For instance, larger provinces, such as Ontario and British Columbia, might offer a wider array of roles. In comparison, smaller provinces may focus more on education tailored to community needs, as well as specialized teaching.
Yes, some non-teaching roles in education, such as consulting, corporate training, curriculum development, educational technology, and instructional design, can be more lucrative than a standard teaching position, especially when they involve specialized skills, advanced education, and experience. Moreover, non-teaching roles can also offer higher earning potential, depending on the sector and level of specialization.
Sources:
- https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Academic_Dean/Salary
- https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Professor%2C_Postsecondary_%2F_Higher_Education/Salary
- https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=School_Superintendent/Salary
- https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Training_Manager/Salary
- https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Instructional_Designer/Salary
