Career Comparison Dashboard

Comparing 2 careers • Side-by-side analysis

Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

Quick Comparison

Career Highlights

When comparing Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers and Postsecondary Education Administrators, several key differences and similarities emerge. Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers offers a median salary of $59,950, the lowest among these roles, while Postsecondary Education Administrators earns $103,960, the highest. In terms of job growth, Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers is projected to grow at -14.0%, the slowest, while Postsecondary Education Administrators is expected to grow at +2.0%, the fastest.

Job opportunities also differ: Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers has 5,600 positions (fewest jobs), while Postsecondary Education Administrators offers 226,600 (most jobs). Education requirements for Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers typically include Bachelor's degree, while Postsecondary Education Administrators requires Master's degree.

When it comes to work-life balance, Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers and Postsecondary Education Administrators may differ, with one typically offering a more balanced lifestyle and the other potentially having a more demanding schedule. Automation risk is lower for Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers if its score is lower, meaning it is more secure from technological replacement, while Postsecondary Education Administrators may face a higher risk if its score is higher. In terms of personality fit, Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers is best suited for those who align with its Holland code profile, while Postsecondary Education Administrators matches a different set of interests and strengths.

This side-by-side analysis helps you weigh salary, growth, job opportunities, education, work-life balance, automation risk, accessibility, and personality fit to find the best career for your goals and lifestyle.

Postsecondary Education Administrators is the overall leader in salary, growth, and job opportunities among these careers.

Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers

Postsecondary Education Administrators

Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers

$59,950
-14.0%

Requirements

Bachelor's degree 5,600 jobs

Automation Risk

Low
10% chance of being automated

Work-Life Balance

8.2/10
8.2/10

Top Skills

Communication skills Cultural sensitivity Patience Resourcefulness

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

What They Do

Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers are education professionals who help adults build foundational academic skills, earn credentials, and develop English language proficiency. They work with learners who may be improving literacy and numeracy, preparing for a high school equivalency credential, or learning English for work, community life, or further education. Their role combines instruction, mentorship, and practical support for diverse adult learners.

This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy teaching, working with diverse populations, and helping adults achieve educational and personal goals.

What Do Adult Basic and ESL Teachers Do?

Adult basic and ESL teachers design and deliver instruction tailored to adult learners’ needs and goals.

Common responsibilities include:

  • Teaching reading, writing, math, and basic academic skills
  • Providing instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • Preparing learners for high school equivalency exams or workforce readiness
  • Assessing student skill levels and learning progress
  • Adapting lessons for varied backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles
  • Using practical, real-world examples relevant to adult life
  • Maintaining attendance, progress records, and assessments

Types of Adult Education Instruction

Teachers may focus on specific adult learning goals:

  • Adult Basic Education (ABE): Literacy, numeracy, and foundational academic skills.
  • Adult Secondary Education (ASE): High school–level coursework and equivalency preparation.
  • ESL / English Language Instruction: Speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English.
  • Workforce and Career Readiness:[[ /B]] Skills for employment, testing, or job training.
  • Civics or Community Education:[[ /B]] Language and skills for civic participation.

Skills and Abilities Needed

Adult education teachers combine instructional expertise with cultural awareness and flexibility.

Core Professional Skills

- Lesson planning for adult learners - Literacy, numeracy, or language instruction - Assessment and progress tracking - Classroom facilitation and learner engagement - Use of educational technology and online tools - Clear explanation of practical concepts

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Patience and empathy - Cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness - Strong communication and listening skills - Adaptability and creativity - Encouraging and supportive teaching style - Commitment to learner success

Education and Certification Pathway

Requirements vary by employer and program type:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (common): Education, English, linguistics, or a related field
  • Teaching or ESL Certification (often required): State or program-specific credentials
  • Adult Education or TESOL Training:[[ /B]] Specialized preparation for adult learners
  • Continuing Education: Required to maintain credentials and skills
  • Practical Teaching Experience:[[ /B]] Classroom or community-based instruction

Where Do Adult Basic and ESL Teachers Work?

Adult education teachers work in a variety of community and educational settings:

  • Adult Education Centers and Programs
  • Community Colleges and Continuing Education Programs
  • Community-Based and Nonprofit Organizations
  • Correctional or Rehabilitation Facilities
  • Workforce Development and Training Centers
  • Online or Hybrid Learning Programs

Work schedules may include evenings or weekends to accommodate adult learners.

How Much Do Adult Basic and ESL Teachers Earn?

Earnings vary by setting, funding source, and experience:

  • Part-Time or Program-Based Teachers: Often earn hourly wages
  • Full-Time Instructors: Typically earn salaried education pay
  • Experienced or Credentialed Teachers: May earn more with specialization

Compensation may depend on public funding or program budgets.

Is This Career Difficult?

Teaching adults can be challenging but deeply rewarding. Educators work with learners who may face time constraints, language barriers, or past educational setbacks. The challenge lies in adapting instruction, maintaining motivation, and supporting progress while respecting learners’ lived experiences.

Who Should Consider Becoming an Adult Basic or ESL Teacher?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

  • Enjoy teaching and mentoring adults
  • Value cultural diversity and inclusion
  • Are patient and encouraging
  • Like practical, goal-oriented instruction
  • Want to make a direct impact on learners’ lives

How to Prepare Early

  • Study education, English, linguistics, or related subjects
  • Volunteer with literacy or ESL programs
  • Learn about adult learning theory and cultural competency
  • Practice clear communication and instructional skills
  • Explore adult education or TESOL certification pathways

Adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers open doors to opportunity by helping adults build essential skills, gain confidence, and participate more fully in work, education, and community life through supportive, practical instruction.

Key Industries

Junior colleges; local Elementary and secondary schools; local Junior colleges; state Educational services; private

Postsecondary Education Administrators

$103,960
+2.0%

Requirements

Master's degree 226,600 jobs

Automation Risk

Low
18% chance of being automated

Work-Life Balance

8.5/10
8.5/10

Top Skills

Computer skills Interpersonal skills Organizational skills Problem-solving skills

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

What They Do

Postsecondary Education Administrators plan, direct, and coordinate academic and student services at colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions. They manage programs, faculty, staff, and student affairs to support learning and institutional goals. Their work is critical in education management, student success, and institutional operations.

This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy leadership, organization, and supporting educational programs.

What Do Postsecondary Education Administrators Do?

These professionals oversee academic programs, student services, and administrative functions to ensure effective operation of educational institutions.

Common responsibilities include:

  • Developing and implementing academic policies, programs, and curricula
  • Managing faculty, staff, and departmental operations
  • Coordinating student services such as admissions, enrollment, and counseling
  • Monitoring budgets, resources, and institutional compliance
  • Evaluating program effectiveness and institutional performance
  • Ensuring compliance with accreditation, legal, and regulatory standards
  • Advising senior leadership on strategic planning and policy development

Key Areas of Postsecondary Education Administration

Administrators may specialize in specific academic or operational areas:

  • Academic Affairs: Overseeing curriculum, faculty, and educational programs
  • Student Affairs: Managing student services, activities, and support programs
  • Admissions and Enrollment Management: Coordinating recruitment, applications, and registration
  • Financial and Resource Management: Administering budgets, funding, and institutional resources
  • Compliance and Accreditation: Ensuring adherence to regulations, standards, and policies

Skills and Abilities Needed

Postsecondary education administrators combine leadership, organizational, and analytical skills.

Core Professional Skills

- Academic program management and curriculum planning - Budgeting, resource allocation, and financial oversight - Regulatory compliance and accreditation processes - Strategic planning and policy development - Staff supervision, mentoring, and team coordination - Data analysis and institutional assessment

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Strong leadership and organizational skills - Communication and interpersonal ability - Problem-solving and decision-making skills - Attention to detail and accuracy - Ethical judgment and professionalism - Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities

Education and Career Pathway

This role typically requires advanced education and experience in higher education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (minimum): Education, administration, or related field
  • Master’s or Doctoral Degree (common): Higher education administration, education leadership, or related disciplines
  • Relevant Work Experience: Administrative, academic, or student services roles
  • Professional Development: Training or certifications in higher education leadership
  • Continuous Learning: Staying updated on educational policies, technology, and institutional best practices

Where Do Postsecondary Education Administrators Work?

They are employed in institutions that provide higher education and academic programs:

  • Colleges and Universities
  • Community and Technical Colleges
  • Graduate and Professional Schools
  • Educational Nonprofit Organizations
  • Government and Accreditation Agencies

Work environments include offices, academic departments, administrative centers, and campus facilities.

Is This Career Difficult?

This career requires strong leadership, organizational, and analytical skills. Administrators must manage multiple programs, staff, and student needs while ensuring compliance and institutional effectiveness.

Who Should Consider This Career?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

  • Enjoy managing academic programs and student services
  • Have strong leadership and organizational abilities
  • Can analyze data and make informed decisions
  • Are detail-oriented and ethical
  • Want a career improving higher education operations and student success

How to Prepare Early

  • Take courses in education, administration, or leadership
  • Gain experience through internships, assistantships, or administrative roles in educational settings
  • Develop skills in budgeting, program evaluation, and staff coordination
  • Learn about accreditation, regulations, and institutional policies
  • Explore graduate programs or certifications in higher education administration

Postsecondary education administrators guide academic programs and student services, ensuring effective operations, compliance, and quality education within higher education institutions.

Key Industries

Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state Junior colleges; local Colleges, universities, and professional schools; private Junior colleges; state