School Administration

Is becoming an educational leader among your professional goals? Are you passionate about being an educator?

ECU’s Master of School Administration program in educational leadership is designed to prepare individuals to become school leaders. Upon completion of your degree, you’ll be a better problem-solver, communicator, innovator, collaborator and change agent for school improvement and student success.

You’ll have also earned a North Carolina principal license and will be eligible for the state’s curriculum instructional specialist license. These licenses, combined with your expanded skills and knowledge, qualify you for roles such as:

• Principal or assistant principal
• Instructional coordinator
• Academic facilitator
• Dean of students
• Central office administrator
• Athletic director

Program studies are aligned with the North Carolina School Executive (NCSE) standards and include strategic planning, problem-solving, instructional leadership, managerial leadership, political analysis, organizational theory and development, and leadership skill application. You will also receive internship experience and have the option to pursue full- or part-time study.

ECU Advantage

As a professional educator, you need flexibility from graduate schools for education. At ECU, you’ll enjoy a part-time schedule when pursuing your school administration master’s degree. For additional convenience, we offer a fully online school administration degree or, if preferred, a hybrid format — a combination of online courses and in-person classes held in the evenings to fit your work schedule. Plus, you can do it all within two years and be on your way to an enhanced career.

ECU’s program uses a cohort model, which allows you to build relationships with peers in eastern North Carolina and across the state. You’ll have each other’s support while at ECU - and beyond - as you journey together to become highly regarded educational leaders.

Some of the benefits of pursuing your MSA at ECU include applied learning in six leadership development areas, real-world experience through a part-time administrative internship in your second year, growing your professional network and a high-quality degree available at low tuition rates.