Transform the K-12 Landscape With a Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Master of Education in Educational Leadership (K-12)
- Number of credits: 30 (plus 10 credits for optional Principal Certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education)
- Average duration: Five semesters
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 provide 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.
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 EdD)
- Improve your current skill set as an educator
- Pursue an education-related career in the private or nonprofit sector
- Continue your education with an EdD 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.
- The online synchronous option is convenient for professionals, with all courses taking place via live virtual sessions
- The hybrid option provides opportunities to interact with faculty and peers on campus
- 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
- School principal or assistant principal
- School district administrator
- Education consultant
- College or university administrator
- Education policy analyst
- Nonprofit organization leadership
- Adult education administrator
- Educational leadership coach
- Curriculum specialist
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:
Students interested in pursuing the optional Principal Certification must complete all 10 credits in person.
“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.
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:
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
The Pennsylvania Educator Tuition Incentive provides a
10% discount
on up to 18 credits per year
Admissions and Transfer Credits
Some students may be able to accelerate their degree by transferring prior graduate-level credits. To check your eligibility, please review our credit transfer requirements. If eligible, you’ll need to complete a form for each course you’d like to transfer and submit official transcripts before classes begin.
For further guidance, we encourage you to reach out to an enrollment specialist at (866) 760-8978.
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 online 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 (866) 760-8978 (toll-free) or emailing us at edprograms@lehigh.edu.