Master's in Educational Leadership

Online MSEL

Online Master's in Educational Leadership

In today's turbulent times, our schools need administrators who lead with passion, confidence, and clarity of vision. Concordia University Ann Arbor’s Educational Leadership pathways strive to create transformative experiences through our three-point focus on servant leadership, personal reflectiveness, and commitment to lifelong learning.

Choose between our Master's in Educational Leadership or a Post-Master's School Administrator Certificate and graduate prepared to lead with confidence and ready for a Michigan Building Administrator Certificate.

School Administrator Program Pathways

Do you not yet have a master's in education and are looking to step into the role of an administrator?

Our Master of Science in Educational Leadership (MSEL) is designed for educators seeking advanced professional training for positions in P-12 schools. Our mission is to prepare professional educators who are servant leaders, reflective practitioners, and committed life-long learners. You will study managing personnel so you can inspire your team to consistently improve within their craft. You will learn how to give constructive feedback, create accountability and evaluate teachers. Our approach will empower you to develop your staff into an organized and energized team.

MSEL graduates qualify for building-level administrator certification in Michigan.

Do you already have your master's in education degree, but you're looking to become an administrator?

Our post master’s in K-12 School Administrator Certificate Program (SACP) is designed for individuals who already hold a valid education-related master’s degree and wish to prepare for a role in P-12 building leadership. You will learn traditional and contemporary theories, research, and practices about human behavior in formal organizations and within the school while exploring various leadership roles as they contribute to the success of the instructional program.

Graduates can be recommended to the State of Michigan for the K-12 Building Administrator Certificate.

Program features

Candidates qualify for building-level administrator certification in Michigan
Advanced professional training for positions in K-12 schools
Qualified instructors who prepare professional educators to be servant leaders, reflective practitioners, and committed life-long learners
Receive a comprehensive learning experience in preparation for school administration
Courses are offered year-round in convenient 8-week formats

Build a theoretical understanding of effective leadership and develop practical skills in educational administration
Recognized by the Educational Leadership Constituent Council
Courses are offered in a convenient fully online format
Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Master Educational Leadership

Custom paths towards a career in school administration.

Our courses prepare both master's degree and post-master's degree students for building leadership.

View our Courses

Educational Leadership: Theory and Practice This course presents definitions and principles of servant leadership within the sociopolitical context of schools; examines processes and functions of various educational leadership roles, both traditional and contemporary; identifies critical leadership roles; examines and develops beliefs and practices which promote high levels of performance.
Organizational Theory in Educational Settings This course presents traditional and contemporary theories, research and practices related to the behavior of human beings in formal organizations, particularly within the context of the school an institution.
Research Methods in Education This course provides a broad introduction to the nature of educational research and its various traditions, including differing epistemological orientations and the fundamental issues within each research paradigm. Attention will be given to the central role of data collection and interpretation in curricular and programmatic decision-making. The ethical and legal considerations of research using human subjects will be examined with particular attention to the university’s Human Subjects Research Policy.
Professional Learning Communities in a Pluralistic Society This course presents research and practices aimed at developing professional learning communities and nurturing positive school cultures. Emphasis is placed on creating partnerships with parents, the business community, and local/state/federal agencies in order to ensure the community’s diversity and resources are represented in decision-making processes.
Curriculum Development and Instructional Supervision Participants examine the criteria and development of effective instructional programs, including the dynamics involved in planning, implementation and evaluation of programs; the implications of personnel and resource development to the overall instructional model; and the skills necessary to effectively and positively impact instruction to sustain a positive learning environment. Curriculum mapping and the relationship of learning theory to both curriculum design and delivery will be introduced.
Legal, Ethical & Policy Issues for School Leaders Participants examine legal and ethical issues related to Educational Administration, including questions of liability and negligence, teacher and student rights, certification and accreditation, and disciplinary policies and practices. Particular attention will be given to the role and impact of local, state and federal stakeholders on the development and implementation of school policies.
The Principalship: Current Issues & Emerging Trends Participants examine the changing, multi-faceted role of servant leadership within schools and as it extends to the community. Course topics will include research on strategies and innovative programs to improve school operations and enhance achievement for all students.
Personnel Management and Professional Development Participants explore and learn to apply leadership skills and dispositions related to the development and supervision of effective learning environments.
Funding and Financing Schools This course traces the history and current realities of school funding within America public and private schools. Participants will examine state aid formulas, tax structures and federal aid, along with the use of tuition, grants and third-source funding. This course will include a practical application of the development of school budgets.
Seminar on Guided Research and Practice The student works with their faculty research mentor to write and submit an Action Research Report.
Internship in Educational Leadership (2 semester hours) The course is completed in a school under the supervision of a building administrator and CUAA Internship Coordinator. It is designed to provide practical experiences related to Michigan's Standards for the Preparation of School Principals. Practicum hours are completed before, during, and after the school day and reflects all aspects of the principal's role in education.
The MSEL Internship is one of the most important learning experiences you’ll have as you become a proficient educational leader. You will learn from superintendents, principals and other administrators who are successful leaders in their field. This is an intensive 6-month semester experience. Through this hands-on internship, you will gain skills you’ll need to create and sustain a positive learning environment.

Credits

23/32

Cost per credit

$690

flexibility

Full and part time
options available.

The MSEL program helped prepare me to be a school administrator by providing an opportunity to engage in collegial dialog with other professional educators. The curriculum inspired critical thinking skills while building on leadership capacity.

Ben Wallace, Principal - Marshall Opportunity School

Funding your education

Concordia's Uncommon Scholarships help students save money on their education.

Learn more

Informational Webinar

Learn more about the MSEL program straight from our program directors!

Are you an educator seeking advanced professional training for positions in P-12 schools? Are you looking to apply for a Michigan School Administrator Certificate? Our program may be the next step you need.

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