School Leadership, Non-Certification

Master of Education

Program Purpose

The School Leadership Master of Education - Non-Certified Degree addresses research, theory, and practice related to effective schools, teaching and learning, and school reform. Translating theory into practice is a primary emphasis.

This 30 credit program is designed to (a) develop aspiring school leaders’ knowledge, dispositions, and skills related to effective and sustainable school and school system leadership and renewal; (b) prepare school leaders who are committed to the centrality of teaching and learning and to the removal of barriers to student learning; (c) prepare school leaders who will engage all school stakeholders in the development of a shared vision of teaching and learning; (d) prepare school leaders who will manage school operations and resources in an efficient, equitable, and ethical manner, maintaining a constant focus on the improvement of student learning; and (e) prepare school leaders who are committed to professional growth and renewal.

Program Competencies

The School Leadership Master of Education program is designed to produce educational leaders who will:

1. Facilitate the development, articulation, implementation, and stewardship of a vision of learning that is shared and supported by the school community;
2. Nurture and sustain a school culture and instructional program conducive to student learning and staff professional growth;
3. Ensure management of the organization, operations, and resources for a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment;
4. Collaborate with families and community members, respond to diverse community interests and needs, and mobilize community resources;
5. Act with integrity, fairness, and in an ethical manner;
6. Understand, respond to, and influence the larger political, social, economic, legal, and cultural context; and
7. Demonstrate standards-based knowledge. 

Outcomes Assessment

Multiple assessments are used to determine candidate growth toward achievement of the knowledge, skills, and dispositions described in School Leadership program competencies and college-wide graduation competencies. Rubrics-based evaluations of fieldwork, projects, assignments, research papers, and final grades for courses represent the first level of assessment. Goals, learning outcomes and activities, external assignments, and assessment strategies are linked directly to program and graduation competencies and are clearly stated on each course syllabus.

Program Design

Candidates are expected to satisfactorily complete all requirements associated with the School Leadership program. A total of 30 credit hours are required for program completion and certification. Field-based components are embedded in every course. The program is normally completed in two to three years, although accelerated options make it possible to complete the program in one year or less by combining regular courses, online learning courses, and/or hybrid courses. 

Required Courses

MED 6102 is required for all candidates. E-Folio/SL&L is an electronic portfolio system used for documenting and tracking student mastery of program competencies.

Courses

MED 6102 E-Folio

MED 6490 Education, Ethics, and the Law

MED 7201 Fiscal Operations and Resources

MED 7503 School and Community: Building a Shared Vision

MED 7590 School Leadership: Theory and Practice

MED 7700 The Evolving Role of a Principal: Innovative Leadership Prek-12

MED 7701 Supervisory Leadership: Staff Selection Appraisal, and Renewal

MED 7705 Measurement, Accountability, and Student Learning

MED 7708 Curriculum Leadership

Elective Courses (choose two courses from below or as approved by the Program Chair)

MED 7702 Classroom and School Culture: Creating Environments for Learning

MED 7703 Curriculum and Teaching: Research, Theory, and Practice

MED 7704 Education for Equity and Social Justice

MED 7709 Personnel Administration

MED 7710 Technology and the School Environment

MED 7712 Curriculum Development

MED 7799 Supervision and Curriculum Improvement

This information applies to students who enter this degree program during the 2024-2025 Academic Year. If you entered this degree program before the Fall 2023 semester, please refer to the academic catalog for the year you began your degree program.