Transform the K-12 Landscape With a Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Master of Education in Educational Leadership (K-12)
Become an Education Leader With a Master’s From Lehigh
The Master of Education in Educational Leadership (K-12) degree from the Lehigh University College of Education gives education professionals the training they need to work in leadership roles within a wide variety of educational institutions, organizations and agencies.
This master’s in educational leadership program is an excellent option for aspiring education leaders and current classroom teachers. Our experienced, caring faculty provides comprehensive instruction on several key skill areas for education leaders, including organizational leadership, research, data-based decision-making and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Students in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (K-12) can choose to pursue an optional 10 credit Principalship Certification and work toward their Pennsylvania principal certification. The program provides a great foundation for individuals who are interested in entering Lehigh’s doctoral program in educational leadership.
Expected Program Outcomes
Graduates will be equipped to lead schools and educational organizations with confidence and skill.
Graduates will develop the ability to use data analysis and research to make informed decisions.
Graduates will understand how to create and implement effective education policies.
Graduates will be ready to pursue an Ed.D. or other doctoral degree and to take on leadership roles in various sectors.
Ready to learn more? Download our program brochure, and explore our curriculum, admission and FAQ pages.
Reasons to Consider a Master’s in Educational Leadership
This M.Ed. in Educational Leadership is a particularly good fit if you want to:
- Work toward leadership opportunities as a principal, assistant principal or superintendent (with an Ed.D.)
- Improve your current skill set as an educator
- Pursue an education-related career in the private or nonprofit sector
- Continue your education with an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
Flexible Program Formats: Online or Hybrid
This master’s program offers the flexibility to complete your studies in the format that best suits your lifestyle and career goals.
Online
The online synchronous option is convenient for professionals, with all courses taking place via live virtual sessions
Hybrid
The hybrid option provides opportunities to interact with faculty and peers on campus
Students choosing a hybrid modality will take online courses in the fall and spring and then complete electives on campus in the summer term. Summer courses are completed in a variety of ways, depending on the course:
- Full summer semester, which is 12 weeks
- Summer 1 and Summer 2 half-semester, which are 6 weeks each
- Open learning terms, which are 5-7 day intensive courses
“We want our students to be prepared to make a difference in the positions that they’re going to step into. That’s why we’ve invested in the quality of our program, our instruction and taking the time to get to know our students.”
Brian Osborne, Professor of Practice and Program Director in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
Advance Your Career With an Optional Principal Certification Program
The Pennsylvania Principal Certification is a way for educators to enhance their earning potential and advance into administrative roles as principals, assistant principals or district-level leaders. This state-recognized credential hones skills in strategic decision-making, school improvement planning and staff development, empowering professionals to create positive school cultures, improve student outcomes and foster meaningful community partnerships. Featuring a targeted curriculum and a flexible format that includes online and hybrid options, this program allows working professionals to meet the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s requirements for leadership positions.
*Students interested in pursuing the Optional Principal Certification must complete all 10 credits in person.
3,300
It is expected that there will be 3,300 job openings for elementary, middle school and high school principals between 2022 and 2032.
— U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Opportunities With an Educational Leadership Degree
We prioritize career preparation for all of our students. Graduates of the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (K-12) are well-equipped for a myriad of roles, both within school districts and in the private and nonprofit sectors. Below are just some of the career opportunities our students choose to pursue after graduation:
Gain the skills to:
- Lead organizations and manage change
- Set goals for student achievement
- Make data-driven decisions
- Foster a collaborative professional community
- Continually reflect on and refine your leadership practices
Gain the skills to:
- Lead organizations and manage change
- Set goals for student achievement
- Make data-driven decisions
- Foster a collaborative professional community
- Continually reflect on and refine your leadership practices
Gain the skills to:
- Make data-driven decisions
- Develop district policies that account for fiscal and administrative needs
- Monitor revenue, staffing and operational trends
Gain the skills to:
- Supervise and evaluate instructional practices
- Track student progress
- Develop institutional policies that account for fiscal and administrative needs
Gain the skills to:
- Make data-driven decisions
- Develop institutional policies that account for fiscal and administrative needs
- Create inclusive plans and programs that meet the diverse needs of all learners
Gain the skills to:
- Make analytics-driven decisions
- Allocate school resources effectively
- Monitor revenue, staffing and operational trends
Gain the skills to:
- Lead organizations and manage change
- Make data-driven decisions
- Understand the fiscal and administrative factors that shape school policies
- Continually reflect on and refine your leadership practices
Gain the skills to:
- Lead organizations and manage change
- Make data-driven decisions
Gain the skills to:
- Continually reflect on and refine your leadership practices
- Ensure curricula align with learning outcomes
- Lead organizations and manage change
Gain the skills to:
- Ensure curricula align with learning outcomes
- Make analytics-driven decisions
- Allocate resources effectively
The Pennsylvania Educator Tuition Incentive provides a
10% discount
on up to 18 credits per year
Admissions and Transfer Credits
Transfer Your Credits
Earn your degree faster by transferring prior graduate-level credits. If you’re ready to proceed — or need further guidance — please reach out to an enrollment specialist.
Have Questions?
We’re here to make the application process stress-free. Connect with an enrollment specialist at (610) 215-2867 to get all the information you need in just one call.
To discuss your options and determine eligibility for an application fee waiver, reach out to an enrollment specialist. It takes less than 10 minutes to chat!
To learn more about the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (K-12) at Lehigh University College of Education and download a brochure, please fill out the form. You can also talk one-on-one with an enrollment specialist directly by calling (610) 215-2867 or emailing us at edprograms@lehigh.edu.