Appropriate and rigorous coursework and practicum experiences offered at Northwest Missouri State University prepare dedicated teachers to move into positions of leadership at the building or district level. Northwest’s online Master of Science in Education (MSEd.) in Educational Leadership program provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a smooth transition from the classroom to the office of the principal, director or administrator.
The Coursework
In as few as 12 months, graduate students in Northwest’s educational leadership master’s degree program complete 30 hours of courses, including the following:
- Visionary School Leadership — An exploration of school vision and mission development, school culture, support systems, school improvement processes and how all these factors impact student success
- Relational School Leadership — Preparation for effective communication between and among school personnel, families and the community, including effective advocacy for all stakeholders
- Instructional School Leadership — An introduction to effective curriculum, instruction and assessment practices
- Managerial School Leadership — Training in the creation and management of safe and functional built environments to support learning
- Innovative School Leadership — Implementation of effective hiring and staff development practices to “develop and sustain a professional culture of engagement and commitment to the education of the whole child”
In other coursework, MSEd. program candidates develop data literacy and learn how to apply data-driven insight to improvement planning. One of the courses covers the importance of embracing diversity and providing a quality, culturally responsive education and appropriate services for all students. Program candidates also examine the application of school law to all phases of public-school systems.
Most of the courses required for degree completion include a 21- to 27-hour field experience component. In addition, two courses are dedicated practicum experiences, one focusing on curriculum and the other focusing on K-12 school leadership. Under the supervision of a university supervisor and a site supervisor, students have “opportunities to synthesize and apply the content knowledge, develop and refine the professional skills, and demonstrate their capabilities as articulated in each of the elements included in NELP (National Educational Leadership Preparation) Building-Level Program Standards.”
The Ideal Candidate
Teachers who are ready to take the next step toward educational leadership roles may already have some of the characteristics that will help them succeed:
- Visionary thinkers. The ideal candidates for the MSEd. in Educational Leadership program are visionaries. As strong leaders, either in the school or at the district level, these educators see the ultimate goal that they and their staff are working to achieve: student success. Although they recognize barriers, the goal of student success is always foremost in the educational leader’s mind when asking questions, making plans and establishing systems.
- Collaborators. The ideal candidates also understand the value of community, collaboration and building relationships. Student success cannot be achieved by working in isolation. High-functioning teams and open-minded individuals are necessary to grow ideas, dreams and plans.
- Inclusive leaders. The ideal candidates for educational leadership embrace diversity and inclusion and the unique qualities of each student, teacher and staff member. They recognize the potential in every person and respect how people perform most effectively.
- Emotionally intelligent individuals. Finally, the ideal candidates for this program know themselves and have a capacity for emotional intelligence. They not only understand their own emotions but also recognize and appreciate the emotions of others. They are calm, grounded and empathetic, and they handle conflict with dignity and grace.
A Complete Program for Prospective Educational Leaders
The Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership online program from Northwest Missouri State University provides a convenient, accessible and complete program of study for experienced teachers ready for advancement. Offering multiple start dates and a flexible online format, the program prepares educators for positions of leadership while they continue working in their current positions.
Aspiring school leaders can complete required studies in as few as 12 months, learning from the same distinguished faculty who teach on campus. Plus, degree candidates participate in dynamic, hands-on field experiences, making Northwest’s MSEd. in Educational Leadership stand out as an exceptional program option.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online MSEd. in Educational Leadership program.
