School Leadership

About our Programs:

Our School Leadership programs prepare aspiring leaders to serve effectively and skillfully in schools across Utah. Coursework is grounded in the Utah Educational Leadership (UEL) Standards established by the Utah State Board of Education (USBE). We offer leadership and management coursework as well as coursework on curriculum and instruction, community engagement, and the supervision and evaluation of teachers and school staff.  We equip current and future leaders to meet the complex demands of today’s schools.

We offer two options:

1. School Leadership Post Master’s Certificate

• For educators who have already earned a graduate degree in education
• Students take 27 credit hours (or nine 3-credit courses)

2. Masters in School Leadership

• For educators who do not already have a master’s in education or are seeking an additional graduate degree
• Students take the 27 credit hours for the School Leadership Post Master’s
• Certificate, plus one 3-credit elective course from Curriculum and Instruction Core course offerings—for a total of 30 credits (or ten 3-credit courses).

See planning guide and course offering links in the side bar for more information.

Program Delivery:

All courses in our program are delivered online. Most classes include interactive Zoom sessions totaling up to 9 hours per semester (for example, six 90-minute sessions). Class typically start at either 4:30 PM or 7:15 PM.

Students can complete coursework from anywhere with reliable Wi-Fi and a device that supports Zoom and Canvas. Fulfilling our land-grant mission, our students come from across Utah, bringing a rich diversity of school settings, geographic perspectives, and professional experience adding a depth richness to our discussions.

Program Structure:

Our programs do not follow a cohort model, allowing students to move through coursework at their own pace and learn alongside a variety of peers.

While our model allows flexibility in scheduling courses, students are required to take:

• TEAL 6080: Leadership and the School Principal during their first semester
• TEAL 6930, a culminating course during their final semester

All other courses are offered two out of every three semesters, with a full range of courses available during the summer. This structure supports working professionals while fostering meaningful collaboration across diverse groups of educators.

Embedded Internship:

Internship experiences are embedded within our coursework, allowing students to directly apply what they are learning to real-world leadership practice aligned with Utah Educational Leadership (UEL) Standards.

In the first course, students complete 12 hours of shadowing. Beyond that, almost all internship activities are integrated into our coursework which can typically be completed with minimal time away from a student’s current position.

Students are required to complete internship experiences in both elementary and secondary settings. While students are responsible for identifying their own internship sites (which may include their current school), faculty provide guidance and support throughout the process.  Note: site mentors must hold a license in School Leadership.

For questions or more information, please contact:

Faculty Coordinator: Heather Newell, heather.newell@usu.edu, 435-797-4143

Graduate Program Coordinator: Heather Ericson, heather.ericson@usu.edu, 435-797-1473

FAQs:

Q: Why choose USU?
A: If you want to be part of Utah’s top rated education program with great faculty, individualized support, and a network of peers throughout the state, this program is for you. We offer a great balance of flexibility, convenience, depth, and connection. Students find our classes to be relevant and engaging and the embedded internship to be very meaningful.

Q: How long does the program take?
A: Students typically finish in 3-5 semesters. We suggest you take no more than two classes per semester; some are able to take more depending on their circumstances. 

Q: How much does it cost?
A: It depends on where you are located in Utah. More information can be found here: Tuition Fees | USU

Q: Should I get a master’s or post master’s certificate?
A: Our post master’s certificate (for those who already have an M.Ed ) is 27 credits and our master’s is just one more class, for 30 credits. Most students take the extra course for an additional degree.

Q: Am I required to attend the Zoom classes?
A: Most of your courses require that you attend Zoom classes (up to 9 hours per class, per semester). We use this time for class discussions, guest speakers, and connection with each other.

Q: What support do you offer throughout the program?
A: We are a small, supportive program with four full-time faculty members and two support staff. The Faculty Program Coordinator also serves as your advisor and is available as needed. Your first course helps launch your internship and set you up for success, while your final course supports completion of your internship and guides you through the licensure process, including the Praxis exam.

Q: Can I change my mentor principal after I start the program?
A: Yes, there are many reasons a change of mentor is needed, you just need to let us know when that happens.

Q: How are K-8 internship sites classified—as an elementary or secondary internship site?
A: K–8 schools may count as either elementary or secondary placements. If your experience is primarily in lower grades, we recommend completing your second placement in a high school. If your experience is in upper grades, we recommend an elementary placement to broaden your experience.

Q: Do I have to take time off  work for the internship?
A: The first class requires you to complete 12 hours of shadowing your mentor principals during school hours. Students will need to take time off to complete that requirement. Most other assignments and internship experiences can fit into your schedule as an educator.

What our graduates say about our programs:

“I’ve had a top-notch experience at USU and I’m so grateful to have been a part of this excellent program.”
— Jannica Pozuelos, Alpine School District

“The instructors lead by example, which speaks volumes about the quality of the School Leadership program at USU.”
— INSPIRE End-of-Program Survey

“I thoroughly enjoyed this program. I felt supported and prepared to become a school leader.”
— INSPIRE End-of-Program Survey

Additional Resources