Program Overview

Principal's Residency Certificate

At a Glance

Degree Type: Certificate Location: Bellingham, and Distance Learning for the greater Puget Sound area Total Credits: 45

Program Information

The Principal's Certificate program in the Education Leadership department is designed for educators who hold a master’s degree or are currently enrolled in a master's program. Candidates earn the Washington State residency administrator certificate (principal).

The certificate may be earned in conjunction with the M.Ed. in Education Leadership.

Application Requirements

• All applicants must complete the Graduate School's application and pay the $100 application fee.
• Within the application, you will be prompted to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
• Additional application materials are specified below. Applications will not be forwarded to the department for review until all required materials have been received by the Graduate School.
• International Applicants: Please review the requirements for information regarding Degree Equivalency, English Language Proficiency, and student VISA requirements.

Additional Application Requirements

• Master's degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university
• One copy of valid Washington State certificate (teacher or educational staff associate)
  • If submitting an ESA certificate, you must include a letter from your supervisor describing your assignment and service that supports three years of documented successful school-based experience in an instructional role with students.
• Three (3) references: one each from two building-level administrators, and one from a district-level administrator
• Resume outlining your education and professional history
• Statement of Purpose: A letter of intent stating:
  1. Why you want to become a school administrator;
  2. How your understanding of diversity relates to improving learning for all students. Include your understanding of diversity and your leadership experiences related to student diversity in your response, recognizing that your school/district has students with diverse backgrounds. For the purpose of this letter of intent, diversity may include but not be limited to: highly capable, special needs, 504 plans, ELL/ESL, ethnicity and culture, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio‐economic status, or other;
  3. Your goals and objectives as an education leader.

Application Deadline

• Fall: August 1
• Winter: October 1
• Spring: February 1
• Summer: May 1

Program Details

The Principal's Residency Certificate program is designed to provide educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective school administrators. The program is offered in Bellingham and through Distance Learning for the greater Puget Sound area, allowing students to complete the program in a flexible and convenient manner. The program consists of 45 total credits and can be completed in conjunction with the M.Ed. in Education Leadership.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Principal's Residency Certificate program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of education leadership and administration. The program includes coursework in areas such as education law, school finance, and leadership development, as well as a residency component that provides students with hands-on experience in a school setting.

Assessment and Student Learning Outcomes

The program includes assessment and evaluation of student learning outcomes, which are designed to ensure that students have achieved the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective school administrators. The program also includes a comprehensive assessment of student learning outcomes, which is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the program and make improvements as needed.

Accreditation

The Principal's Residency Certificate program is accredited by the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and is designed to meet the state's requirements for the residency administrator certificate (principal).

Conclusion

The Principal's Residency Certificate program at Western Washington University is a comprehensive and flexible program that is designed to provide educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective school administrators. The program is offered in a convenient and flexible format, allowing students to complete the program in a way that meets their needs and schedule. With its comprehensive curriculum, residency component, and assessment of student learning outcomes, the Principal's Residency Certificate program is an excellent choice for educators who are looking to advance their careers and become effective school administrators.