School Leadership - MEd

The Master of Education in School Leadership (Plan C) is designed for classroom teachers and educators who want to become school and/or educational leaders. We use the Utah Effective Leadership Standards to prepare educators across the state of Utah to meet the demands placed on today’s instructional leaders. Coursework encompasses leadership and management with a specific focus on curriculum and instruction. The program prioritizes the effective use of data to inform successful school improvement for the diverse learners in our schools. Upon successful completion, graduates are recommended to the Utah State Board of Education for a license in School Leadership.

Program Delivery: All courses in our program are delivered online. Most classes include interactive Zoom sessions totaling up to 9 hours per semester (for example, six 90-minute sessions). Class meetings are typically held at either 4:30 PM or 7:15 PM.

Students can complete coursework from anywhere with reliable Wi-Fi and a device that supports Zoom and Canvas. Because of this flexibility, our students come from across Utah, bringing a rich diversity of school settings, geographic perspectives, and professional experiences to the program.

Program Structure: Our program does not follow a cohort model, allowing students to move through coursework at their own pace and learn alongside a variety of peers.

Students are required to take:
• course during their first semester
• course during their final semester

All other courses are offered two out of every three semesters, with a full range of courses available during the summer. This structure supports working professionals while fostering meaningful collaboration across diverse groups of educators.

For additional admission information, including contact information, please visit the department's School Leadership webpage.

Your application will require you to submit:

1. Three recommendations.  One recommendation should be from your immediate supervisor (typically your current principal).  One recommendation should be from someone from the district office or higher leadership position who knows your leadership abilities/potential.  The third recommendation should be a person of your choice who knows your leadership experience.

2. Official transcripts which list your awarded degree(s). (Not needed if degree is from USU.)

3. Copy of current teaching license

4. Evidence of clearing a USBE fingerprint background check. You can access your license and background check on the state page.  Take a screen shot and upload to application.

5. Evidence of being deemed effective or higher by your district or charter summative evaluation system.

6. Statement of Purpose: Describe why you want to earn a graduate degree, and the experiences and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for advanced study (500 word limit).

After completing the admissions application, you will be invited to participate in a 15-minute Zoom interview with the admissions committee.

*Recommended 3-5 years of teaching experience

**Current teaching license is required

Deadline for applications: March 1st, June 1st, and November 1st