Program Overview

Program Overview

The Institute for Management and Leadership in Education (MLE) offers experienced administrators the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of issues that affect their institutions. The program welcomes interest and applications from all practitioners in the field.

Program Details

During the on-campus MLE institute, participants will learn to identify the elements of their institution’s mission and culture that are critical to future success. They will gain a deeper understanding of how to close the gap between their leadership goals and what they can ultimately deliver.

Learning Goals

• Understand and overcome the challenges of organizational change.
• Develop new approaches to leadership in complex academic settings.
• Think and act strategically with attention to people, financial resources, partnerships, initiatives, and emerging opportunities.
• Assess the impact of changes in the higher education environment.

Educational Chairs

• Francesca Purcell: Senior Lecturer on Education, Faculty Co-Chair, Online Master's in Education
• Hanna Rodriguez-Farrar: Vice President & Co-Head of the Office of Community Engagement and Communications, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Target Audience

MLE is designed for experienced higher education leaders who have oversight and responsibility for their school, department, division, or functional area, including:

• Deans with accrued leadership experience
• Assistant and associate vice presidents
• Assistant and associate provosts
• Directors

Tuition and Fees

The tuition covers all instructional materials, a daily continental breakfast and lunch, and beverages and light refreshments during scheduled breaks between sessions. Travel, lodging expenses, and most dinners are not included in this fee.

Tuition Assistance

Tuition assistance is available for this program on a need and application basis. Tuition assistance is granted based on participant and institutional needs. Requests for tuition assistance do not affect an applicant's prospects for admission.

Executive Certificate in Higher Education Leadership

This program counts toward the Executive Certificate in Higher Education Leadership. Complete this program and two additional qualifying programs within 36 months to earn a distinguished credential designed to strengthen leadership capacity and help meet the evolving challenges of higher education.

Related Programs

• Crisis Leadership in Higher Education
• Management Development Program
• LGBTQIA+ Leadership in Higher Education

Program Schedule

• The program takes place on campus and may include virtual components such as a virtual orientation, pre-program preparation work, in-program sessions, and post-program follow-up.
• Upcoming sessions: Jun 7, 2026 - Jun 12, 2026
• Application deadline: Apr 27, 2026
• Tuition: $8,595.00

Application Process

This program only accepts individual applications. First-time applicants need to create a Professional Education account to apply. The application form should be submitted with the most recent CV. Invoices will only be available upon acceptance.