K-12 Educational Administration

Michigan State University’s programs in K-12 Administration and Leadership prepare educators for prominent leadership and policy roles in schools and educational organizations locally, nationally and internationally.

Preparing the Next Generation of School Leaders

Throughout all our programs—including master’s, Ed.D. and Ph.D. options—students are encouraged to study and build their careers to make a difference throughout classrooms, policy and beyond.

• Interested in school-level leadership? 
  • The M.A. in K-12 Educational Administration program is designed to build knowledge and skills for effective administrator and teacher school leadership, and to link students to cutting-edge developments. It is approved by the Michigan Department of Education and qualifies graduates for school administrator certification and endorsements. Applicants who hold a master’s degree might qualify for the Certification Pathway Program.
• Interested in system- or district-level leadership? 
  • The Doctor of Educational Leadership is a program designed for working educational professionals. It highlights the practical application of knowledge and skills in effective systems, puts student in touch with policymakers and thought leaders and supports the creation of knowledge and educational solutions through group capstone projects.
• Interested in becoming a researcher or faculty member as your next career move? 
  • The Doctorate for K-12 Educational Administration emphasizes inquiry and scholarship in preparation for academic or research careers at highly regarded universities or research and policy centers. Most students attend full-time, and are supported through doctoral assistantships.

Led by Renowned Faculty

Students will collaborate with nationally recognized faculty working on critical issues in school leadership and improvement, educational policy, international education and related areas.

National Partners

Since 2020, Michigan State University has served as host of the University Council for Educational Administration. MSU faculty, including Professors Terah Venzant Chambers and Gerardo López, served as past-presidents of the national organization.