Saint Joseph’s University’s Master of Science in Professional Education meets the diverse continuing professional development needs of teachers and administrators.
Educational Leadership and Administration MS
Through the lens of equity, educational leadership and administration MS students learn to lead with their mind and heart to solve the complex educational challenges of the 21st century. You will understand the role of theory in transforming practice, communicating effectively, fostering school-community collaboration and understanding schools as professional communities.
Guided by the Jesuit values of social justice, democratic ideals and service to others, the Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Administration is a 30-credit master’s degree that can be pursued in conjunction with any or all of the following certifications:
- Administrative I Principal PK-12
- Curriculum and Instruction Supervisor PK-12
- Supervisory I Special Education PK-12
Courses can be taken entirely online, on-campus or a combination of both.
What Sets Our Program Apart
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The educational leadership and administration (EDLA) program at Saint Joseph’s University prepares aspiring school administrators, supervisors of curriculum and supervisors of special education to become transformative leaders in PK-12 settings. The program also prepares candidates interested in leadership roles in education who are not seeking certification at this time.
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This program of study is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and leads to Administrative I Principal PK-12, Instruction Supervisor PK-12 and/or Supervisory I Special Education PK-12 certifications. Candidates who complete all degree and certification requirements may apply to the Department of Education for certification.
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Saint Joseph's educational leadership faculty are experts in their fields, bringing theory, practice and relevance to the classroom. Our small, dynamic classes allow for discussion, reflection and collaboration.
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We’ve designed our educational leadership and administration MS program for the working professional. Flexibility and choice are built-in so you can balance work, family and all the other commitments of a busy life.
What Can You Do With an Educational Leadership and Administration MS?
The educational leadership and administration (EDLA) program at Saint Joseph’s University prepares aspiring school administrators, supervisors of curriculum and supervisors of special education to become transformative leaders in PK-12 settings. The program also prepares candidates interested in leadership roles in education who are not seeking certification at this time. Graduates of this program can land careers as:
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Principals
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Assistant principals
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District/private school/learning center administrators
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Curriculum supervisors
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Directors or supervisors of special education
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Superintendents or assistant superintendents of schools
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Executive directors/leaders in organizations, corporations and non-profits
Program Details
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View required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the program curriculum.
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Affordable tuition options start at $845 per credit.*
*This rate applies to all students accepted by Saint Joseph's University after June 1, 2023. Tuition and fee rates for students accepted prior to June 1, 2023, differ. Pricing does not include room and board, health insurance or any professional, clinical or transportation fees. Visit our Tuition & Fees page or contact us for more information.
Financial aid may be available to you to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore your options on our Financial Aid page.
Discount EligibilityHave you completed a year or more of service with a recognized service organization? You may be eligible for our mission discount.
Alumni of Saint Joseph's are eligible to receive 10% off the cost of this program through our alumni discount.
Check with your employer to see if they are an Edcor or a Bright Horizons EdAssist member, which may entitle you to a discount on graduate programs.
Note: discounts cannot be combined. -
Saint Joseph’s University is approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, that assesses institutions for the highest available form of accreditation.
The Erivan K. Haub School of Business at Saint Joseph’s University is also accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a recognition that represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.
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SJU is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Service can help you access and understand your benefits.
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Graduate assistantships are offered on a limited basis. Please contact the program director for availability.
Why Pursue an Educational Leadership and Administration MS in Philadelphia?
Here in Philadelphia, you're surrounded by schools, colleges and universities seeking principals, superintendents and administrators. You will have the unique opportunity to establish a sense of community among schools in diverse neighborhoods through social justice and educational leadership initiatives. You will also learn how education and leadership are affected by politics, history and law.
Admission Information
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To be considered for admission you must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and have earned an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
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- Apply online.
- Submit official college transcripts from all colleges attended.
- Submit a personal statement.
- Submit resume.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
Visit our Graduate Admission Information page to learn more about admission requirements, key deadlines, additional requirements for international students and how to submit your application.
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If you’re applying as an international student, you must provide proof of English Language Proficiency and Certification of Finances along with your application. Check the graduate admission page for more information about the application process and additional requirements for international students.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, elementary, middle school and high school principals earn a median annual salary of $98,420 per year.
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To become PA certified in education, graduates must take the Praxis exam. Learn more about qualifying praxis scores and which test suits your career track at Saint Joseph's University.
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This program does not involve fieldwork; however, there is a two-semester professional internship opportunity. You will collaborate with a site mentor and faculty advisor to develop classroom skills and the competencies required of practicing leaders. Particular attention is paid to creating a just and equitable school environment that serves the needs of all students.
Related Programs
Saint Joseph’s online Special Education MS features offers a rigorous, well-rounded curriculum addressing critical areas of special needs instruction.
Social and emotional (SEL) learning is the process by which children and adults acquire the skills necessary for managing emotions, showing empathy, establishing and maintaining positive relationships, making responsible decisions, and setting and achieving positive goals. These skills must be practiced in social contexts, including classroom and school environments. This graduate certificate will prepare you to help students develop these skills.