Welcome to the Program in Educational Leadership
The programs in Educational Leadership emphasize the application of
theory and research to the practice of administration in P-12 schools.
The programs provide individuals with knowledge, skills, and dispositions
needed to function as scholarly, ethical, and reflective decision makers.
The programs prepare individuals to lead complex educational organizations
in ways that improve schools, foster democratic communities, and promote
social justice.
Programs
Master of ArtsThe primary purpose of the Masters degree in Educational Leadership is to provide students with the initial-level certification as an administrator in Alabama. The coursework provides students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the field of educational leadership. Students learn to work with students, families, and communities in ways that reflect the dispositions expected of educational leaders. The program content is consistent with state and national standards.
Innovative Leadership ProgramThe primary purpose of the Innovative Leadership Program, an 18-hour sequence of courses, is to provide students who already hold a master’s level certification in a teaching field with the initial level administrative certification as an administrator in Alabama
Educational Specialist The purpose of the Ed.S. degree in educational leadership is to prepare individuals for various positions in organizational settings that are educational in nature. For students who already have initial level administrative certification, the Ed.S. program provides the coursework for those seeking "AA" certification in educational administration. An alternative program of study is available for students wishing to pursue an Ed.S. degree without "AA" administrative certification. At the conclusion of the program, students will have acquired the technical, human, conceptual, and data gathering skills essential to theory and practice. Students will gain wider exposure to a variety of organizations and develop networks with one another and with other practitioners.