Program Overview

Master of Education in Educational Leadership

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program is designed to prepare students for positions as school principals or program leaders in elementary or secondary schools. In addition to on-campus classes, graduate education courses in school administration are offered synchronously online.

About the Program

This degree is approved by the Professional Educator's Standards Board (PESB), and its successful completion will qualify students for a Washington Residency P12 Certificate as a school principal or program administrator.

School Principal or Program Administrator "Certificate Only" Program

A School Principal or Program Administrator "Certificate Only" program (30 credits) is also available for those who already hold a master's or other advanced degree. Applicants who otherwise qualify to enter the educational leadership program and already have a master's or other advanced degree need not complete a second master's degree to obtain certification as a school principal or program administrator.

Internship

A year-long (9-credit) internship is a part of both the master's degree program in Educational Leadership and the Principal Certification-only or Program Administrator-only program. The primary objective is for students to acquire and practice the skills of effective management and leadership.

Option for a Second Certificate

Applicants who have earned Residency Principal or Program Administrator Certification from SPU may earn the other certificate (either Principal or Program Administrator) by completing 6 additional internship credits, along with an elective course that matches their interests.

Comprehensive Exam

At the end of the program, students will complete a written comprehensive exam that is based on both coursework and internship experiences.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit the following items:

• Online application and $50 application processing fee
• Copy of current Washington state teaching certificate (front and back, not required for Program Administrator Certification candidates)
• Official transcript(s) from each college/university attended
• Résumé
• Personal statement (12 pages)
• Present a GPA of at least 3.0 (4.0 = A) in the last 45 quarter credits of coursework completed
• Two letters of recommendation (one supervisory, one professional)
• Verification of Experience Form required for anyone seeking a Washington state Principal Certificate

Enrollment Policy

• Students must be continuously enrolled in required SPU courses to earn this master's degree, or until officially withdrawing from the program.
• Students may be granted a leave of absence for up to four quarters by the program director.
• University academic policy requires continuous enrollment to remain admitted in a graduate program.
• If a student decides to no longer pursue a master's degree, the student may officially withdraw from the program and SPU by notifying the program director and the associate director of graduate programs.