MSU launches virtual option for P-12 Educational Leadership degree

In Fall 2025, the MSU College of Education launched a fully online version of one of its longstanding master’s degrees. The P-12 Educational Leadership master’s degree is open and accepting applications for either its hybrid program, mixing campus based and online learning, or its new, 100% virtual program. 

If the name sounds changed, it is. The Department of Educational Administration rebranded the former K-12 Educational Administration master’s program as the P-12 Educational Leadership program to align with core purposes of developing powerful leaders for all levels of our education systems. 

“The new online program connects us to educators across Michigan and beyond and blends live, collaborative learning with self-paced study,” shared Julie Helber and BetsAnn Smith. “The curriculum of both master’s programs align with the National Educational Leadership Preparation Standards (NELPS) to reflect current professional practice demands on school leaders.” 

Helber, a clinical assistant professor, and Smith, an associate professor, are two of the faculty leaders for College of Education programs related to K-12 educational leadership and education. The MSU programs include a Ph.D. in K-12 Educational Administration, an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and the master’s programs, expanded to foster professional growth and accessibility for P-12 educators. 

Graduates of either the online or hybrid master’s program become eligible for Michigan School Administrator Certification.

“We see our students progress into important leadership roles following their studies with us,” noted Smith. “That’s important given the high need for strong school leadership across Michigan.“ 

Helber added that "both programs equip graduates with the skills needed to address the evolving and complex demands of today’s and tomorrow’s schools. 

She continued: “[Our programs cover] the demands of state learning standards and assessments, the implementation of multi-tiered systems of support and inclusive education systems, and the emerging challenges posed by social media. Students receive thoughtful, comprehensive preparation for all Michigan Department of Education requirements for school leader certification, including the new administrator certification exam.” 

Exploring the programs 

The hybrid program remains rooted in active, hands-on professional learning in small cohorts of peers, meeting on campus for 30-40 percent of classes, while others occur online. 

The new, all-online version serves the same key leadership competencies — but in new program modalities: synchronous and self-paced learning that incorporates leadership simulations, case studies and personalized, problem-based learning. 

Regardless of the program, students can continue working full-time while pursuing their degree. 

Hands-on learning 

Participants also participate in the nine-month School Leadership Internship that centers the program in professional practice. Students are matched with a local leadership mentor and receive ongoing support and feedback from faculty with effective school leadership experience. 

“In our programs, students broaden their perspectives by learning with peers from diverse communities and with nationally recognized faculty connected to leaders across research, policy and practice,” Helber added. “Strong preparation — combined with MSU’s reputation and extensive networks — helps our graduates achieve high rates of promotion and long-term career success.” 

The P-12 Educational Leadership programs accept applications at three points throughout the calendar year. Explore our website to learn more about how and when to apply.