Educational Leadership, Research and Technology

K-12 Principal Leadership, Master of Arts

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Courses

Overview

This fully online master’s program offers a flexible blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses designed to meet the diverse needs of working professionals who aspire to strengthen schools through leadership at multiple levels. Through a curriculum that integrates theory, practice, and real-world application, students develop the skills necessary to foster positive school cultures, lead instructional improvement, and support learning excellence. Faculty with extensive experience guide students in exploring critical topics such as building culture, instructional leadership, organizational management, equity-driven decision-making, and community engagement.

Upon successful completion of the program—and pending approval from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE)—graduates will be recommended for the Michigan School Administrator Certificate. In addition, those residing outside Michigan may be eligible for administrative certification in their respective states, depending on state-specific requirements and reciprocity policies. This program prepares graduates to make meaningful, lasting impacts as visionary educational leaders, whether in administrative roles or specialized leadership positions, including:

Instructional Coach
Teacher Leader
School Improvement Team Leader
MTSS/PBIS Coordinator
Committee Leader
Administrative Designee
Data Team Facilitator
Curriculum or Assessment Coordinator
Professional Learning Leader

By blending leadership theory with authentic, practice-based experiences, the program equips candidates to influence student outcomes, teacher effectiveness, and school-wide success, regardless of whether they pursue formal administration.

Meet Lindsey (M.A. '25)

Lindsey Cook, the 2025 Region 7 Teacher of the Year, is an elementary teacher at Sonoma Elementary School in Harper Creek Community Schools.

Alumni and student testimonials

Attend an informational session!

A lady on a computer listening to a virtual meeting

Learn more about the program by attending one of our virtual information sessions. These sessions offer the opportunity to meet with a faculty member—and occasionally a current student—to gain a deeper understanding of the program structure, coursework, and application process. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and engage in conversation about how the program can support their professional goals.

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Why apply?

Offered fully virtually to support working professionals, including several synchronous class sessions each semester to support "face-to-face" student engagement.
This program can have the fewest required credits of any similar M.A. in the state of Michigan, with students able to earn up to 15 of the 30 required credits with our Prior Learning Assessment program. Learn more.
Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as No. 22nd in the nation and No. 1 in Michigan for best online master's degrees offering educational supervision for veterans in their 2025 rankings (and an overall best ranking of No. 71 in the nation, and No. 2 in Michigan). Learn more.
Great outcomes in that 97% of WMU K-12 administrative graduates have been rated as "effective" or "highly effective" by their school district within their first three years as an administrator.

Program of Study

In this program, you’ll learn how to lead schools effectively, make data-informed decisions, and create inclusive, equitable learning environments. You’ll gain practical skills in managing school operations, guiding curriculum and instruction, and supporting teacher growth through supervision and coaching. The program also covers legal and ethical responsibilities, community engagement, and cultural competence, preparing you to build strong relationships with students, families, and staff. Hands-on internships give you real-world experience, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in actual school settings while developing the confidence and expertise needed for leadership as a principal.

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Admissions requirements

To learn about admission requirements, please visit the Graduate College's webpage.

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Prior learning experience

Students can apply for potential credit for their prior learning and experiences for this program. This is a great opportunity for nontraditional students to showcase their prior knowledge and experiences, and fast track their graduate degree program.

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Contact Program Coordinator

Cohorts

The K-12 unit has successfully delivered the Educational Leadership MA and K-12 Administrator Certificate in the cohort model that is job embedded by utilizing local and intermediate school district resources and opportunities. The department is willing to create cohorts that target specific school districts, counties, or regions. If your organization is interested in pursuing a cohort-partnership, reach out to Dr. Wayne Stitt.

Athletic administration pathway

An additional M.A. pathway is available for individuals interested in combining educational leadership with athletic leadership. This fully online master’s degree program—offered through a blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses—prepares working professionals for leadership roles as building principals and athletic directors. The flexible format allows students to balance coursework with their professional and personal commitments while gaining the knowledge and skills to lead effectively in educational settings. Graduates are recommended to receive the Michigan School Administrator Certificate and may also qualify for administrative certification in other states, depending on state-specific requirements.

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State licensure test

Notification: Starting, January 2025, the State of Michigan will be requiring state testing for those that are wanting to attain a School Administrator license for either the Central Office or Building Level. We will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Cost & funding