Online Master's Degree in
Educational Leadership
Unlock Your Leadership Potential with Our Master's in Educational Leadership Program!
The Educational Leadership program is the perfect opportunity for licensed teachers and non-licensed leaders to step into leadership positions in educational settings.
With three emphasis areas to choose from, the Educational Leadership program allows individuals of various disciplines to enhance their leadership skills in an online graduate program.
Athletic Administration Emphasis - Beginning Fall 2025
In August 2025, Pitt State will offer an athletic administration emphasis with the Ed Leadership master's degree. This is a cooperative effort between the Departments of Teaching and Leadership and Health, Human Performance, and Recreation (HHPR), to provide a relevant graduate degree combining building principal licensure and athletic director coursework. Learn more
Designed for individuals with any undergraduate degree, our program embraces diversity and welcomes professionals from various disciplines.
Through the practicum course, students gain valuable, hands-on experience in a school setting.
Our program accommodates working professionals, offering flexible learning options to balance your academic pursuits with your career commitments.
Master's of Educational Leadership Admission Requirements:
The admissions criteria for the Master's Degree in Educational Leadership includes the following:
- The candidate will have a history of assuming leadership roles in a variety of settings.
- The candidate will demonstrate effective writing skills.
- The candidate will demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with others.
- The candidate will show a commitment to assuming leadership roles within organizations.
- The candidate will demonstrate a history of meeting deadlines and satisfactorily accomplishing major tasks.
- The candidate will have a GPA of at least 3.00 for one of the following:
- The last two years of undergraduate work for those candidates who have only an undergraduate degree and less than nine hours of graduate work.
- Nine hours or more of current graduate credit courses.
- A completed graduate degree.
Unique Class Topics in the Education Master's
- Introduction to Educational Leadership: Gain foundational insights into educational leadership principles and practices.
- Educational Leadership Policy and Practice: Explore the dynamic intersection of policy and leadership in the educational landscape.
- Legal Foundations of Public Education: Delve into the legal framework that shapes public education, understanding its implications for effective leadership.
- Building Level Administration: Apply leadership theories in a real-world setting, gaining hands-on experience in building-level administration.
- Applied Research: Develop research skills and apply them to real-world educational challenges, contributing to the advancement of educational leadership practices.
Emphasis Options in Educational Leadership Program:
- Option I Thesis: This option prepares students for a doctoral program, for advanced professional careers, or for students wanting to complete an in-depth research experience.
- Option II Research Problem: This option requires students to provide a research experience that can include a specific problem or creative and aesthetic efforts such as performances, exhibits, creative programs, or an internship.
Career Options for Education Leadership Graduates:
As a graduate of this program, you will obtain the knowledge, skills, and strategies you need to work in the following roles and more:
- Building Principal at the Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, or Secondary Education levels
- Leader, Director, or Coordinator for a variety of student programs for higher education, community colleges, or technical schools
- EdS student in General School Administration (master’s-level preparation)
- Doctoral student in Educational Leadership (master’s-level preparation)
Emphases available
Advance your career with a Master’s in Leadership Studies. Build skills in strategy, communication, and organizational change—no licensure required.
Gain skills in supervision, policy, and school management to lead K–12 schools effectively.
Earn your Master’s in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Athletic Administration. Prepare for leadership roles in school sports programs.