In the field of education, there is a strong need for leaders and administrators who will be able to instill confidence in the teachers who work for them, the students who learn from them, and the parents who trust their children to them. The educational system is in flux right now and school environments are changing. Parents are holding teachers more accountable than ever for the success of their children, and governments are using standardized testing to measure the effectiveness of teachers. Good educational leaders are not those who simply hand out directions and expect that they will be followed; rather, they are those who pave the way for success through knowing the current lay of the land and leading by example. Building these critical leadership skills necessary for the modern school administrator begins with a solid educational foundation.
Many Areas of Specialization
There are a variety of degrees in Educational Leadership available, both available online, in a traditional setting and in a setting that combines both. The choice is really up to the person pursuing the degree. Educational leadership degrees can range from master’s-level degrees up to the doctoral level. These degrees help interested professionals pursue positions such as assistant principal, principal, or superintendant; and help administrators enter leadership positions at the local, state and national level. The requirements for these specific positions vary from state to state, and acceptance into these programs usually requires a bachelor’s degree.
Many states require teachers to receive a master’s degree within a few years of starting their teaching career. Even teachers who have no designs to become administrators or policymakers can benefit from continuing their education by staying on top of the most current trends.
Leadership Skills
In educational leadership programs, participants learn a variety of skills including historical applications, qualitative applications, theories about leadership, skills in analysis of a variety of situations, communication skills both as a skilled writer and an orator, skills in problem-solving and critical analysis of situations that appear instantly, how to develop team-building qualities in a staff and, in the age in which we live, technology skills that will be critical to both job performance and curriculum development. Courses will be specific to the state in which the degree is being sought but these skills will enhance the knowledge base of each participant and help them develop the critical thinking skills needed for the administrative roles they seek.
The current state of our educational system is in flux. Now, more than ever, school districts and states are seeking qualified leaders to help their schools and their students succeed.
The Educational Leadership program DOES NOT lead to teacher or administrator certification, licensure, or endorsement in any state in the United States. These programs are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of students who are already certified, licensed or endorsed and for students who are interested in pursuing these degrees for reasons other than obtaining teacher or administrator certification, licensure, or endorsement. Additionally, the credits earned through participating in these programs offered by Argosy University are unlikely to be transferable to any other similar program that is approved for teacher or administrator certification, licensure or endorsement in any State.
