The Educational Leadership Tier I Certification Only (Online) program is for those with an education related master’s degree who are passionate about leading and ready to take the next step towards becoming an entry-level leader in a school or school district such as a P-12 school level assistant principal or the equivalent, or other Local Unit of Administration (LUA) staff who do not supervise principals. Students must be currently employed in a K12 setting and possess a Professional Level Five Certificate or higher in a leadership, teacher, service, or related field. The courses introduce students to educational leadership theory and practice. Students participate in varied leadership experiences supported by a school or district in addition to completing advanced coursework. This program provides a unique opportunity for K12 educational leaders to further develop the skills necessary for school administrative positions through a rigorous performance-based coursework resulting in certification conferred by the GaPSC. The 250 required hours of clinical practice are job-embedded and performance-based throughout the program and are guided cooperatively by the University and the school/district partner via supervised field experience courses.
NOTE: Graduates of this program are eligible to pursue Tier I educational leadership certification in the state of Georgia and principal’s licensure in the state of Indiana. Program Advisors will meet with students each semester to review processes and options for earning professional licenses in the state in which they reside. Additionally, our designated CAU SOE Certification Officer will conduct workshops each semester related to state certification/licensure procedures and protocols.
Program Highlights
The Tier I Certification Only in Educational Leadership program will prepare you to:
*Take the next step towards becoming an entry-level leader
*Greater understanding of educational leadership and practice
*Engage in meaningful discourse
*Evaluate educational systems
Plan of Study
Core Courses (18 semester hours)
Strategic Leadership (3 semester hours)
Instructional Leadership (3 semester hours)
Organizational Leadership (3 semester hours)
Political and Community Leadership (3 semester hours)
The core courses are designed to build on various aspects of school district leadership including finance, instruction, policy, and facilities.
Practicum Courses (6 semester hours)
Field Experience (6 semester hours)
This will be a two-semester district -based practicum. You will be supported by ongoing site and university supervision. Your experiences during your practicum courses will prepare you to work in any district-wide leadership position.
