My PennWest

Deepen your expertise and expand your skills with an online master's in educational leadership.

Take on a leadership role in your school or district with PennWest’s master's in educational leadership online degree. This rigorous program will give you the skills and experience you need to create conditions in schools that foster creativity and lead to optimal learning experiences for all students.

Choose from two concentrations – K-12 Principal certification or the Supervisor of Special Education certification. Both are designed to advance your career ─ and while you continue to work full time. Asynchronous classes allow you to work at your own pace, on your own time.

PennWest’s distinguished M.Ed. faculty will mentor and guide you as you deepen your expertise and expand your skills. Among other things, you will learn to be an effective leader in instruction and curriculum development and become an agent for positive change. Emphasis will be placed on identifying your own leadership vision and style, while learning to lead others.

Upon completion, you will be eligible to sit for the Praxis exam and apply for certification as a K-12 Principal or Supervisor of Special Education. Once you secure a principal or Supervisor position, you will also then be qualified to apply for PennWest’s Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility program and the Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership degree.

This program is for you if...

  • You are an experienced educator seeking to advance into leadership roles within your school or district.
  • You aspire to become a principal or supervisor of special education.
  • You are passionate about promoting equity, diversity, and inclusive education.
  • You aim to develop a personal leadership vision and enhance your professional skills.
Locations
Locations
  • Global Online

Credits
Credits
  • 30 Credits for MEd + Certificate

What You'll Study

The program covers essential topics in educational leadership, including curriculum leadership, legal aspects of educational leadership, instructional leadership, and school-community relations. It integrates practical experiences through internships and action research projects focused on special education and school change.

Degrees, Certificates

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Meet our faculty

 

How You’ll Learn

This program is offered 100% online.

Learn more about how you’ll learn.

    What You'll Become

    Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for leadership roles in education, such as school principals, supervisors of special education, or other administrative positions. The program emphasizes developing the skills to create inclusive, equitable, and effective learning environments.

    Career Paths

    • School Principal
    • Supervisor of Special Education
    • Educational Consultant
    • District Administrator
    • Curriculum Coordinator

    Teacher Shortage

    PennWest initiates recruitment, training programs to address U.S. teacher shortage.

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    Students Learning from Teacher

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    Nationally Ranked

    Our graduate programs are consistently ranked among the best online programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

    Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

    This degree is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which promotes excellence in educator preparation through quality assurance and continuous improvement.

    • Affordable Programs

      Discover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.

      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest