The graduate degree program in Educational Leadership with a concentration in School Administration is designed for students who seek administrative training and licensure in the PK-12 environment. The cohort program requires a total of 33 credit hours. Candidates are immersed in all dimensions of leadership to include analyzing data, evaluating instruction, improving student achievement, making strategic decisions, creatively solving problems, involving families in their children’s education, empowering others, supervising staff, promoting change, establishing positive school culture, understanding budgets, and managing resources. The program nationally aligns with the Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) and is approved for administrative licensure by the Mississippi Department of Education. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional positions in education, including principal, assistant principal, coordinator, and director.

Admission Requirements

Graduate applicants may apply year-round for summer admission only. Contact the program coordinator for deadline to submit the graduate application with all supporting documentation. Students are scored on their GPA, and program interview.

• A 2.75 GPA for admission to the Master’s program and a 3.20 GPA to enter the Educational Specialist degree program
• A current teaching license, strong recommendations from administrators in the field
• At least (3) years teaching experience
• In addition to the graduate school requirements, students must create a portfolio and schedule an interview with program faculty (contact program coordinator after graduate school application is complete)