Overview

Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Administration and Policy

The Mary Frances Early College of Education recognizes the need for more courageous and transformative leadership. To meet this need, we have extended our outreach and launched an online Master’s in Educational Administration and Policy and Tier I Certification-Only programs. The curricula for these programs match the innovative, relevant, and rigorous curriculum of the face-to-face (hybrid) cohort model. Students admitted into these programs will enjoy both asynchronous and synchronous assignments and online class sessions. Faculty employs the latest technologies and instructional practices to ensure students have an engaging, innovative, and in-depth learning experience.

Master’s in Educational Administration and Policy Leading to Tier I Certification

This program is designed for working education professionals who bring at least three years of relevant or transferrable work experience. Online learning is combined with clinical experiences conducted under the guidance of a mentor, who must possess Tier I certification, in school districts. Tier I leadership certification courses in Educational Administration and Policy at the University of Georgia prepare students for initial leadership certification and place a strong emphasis on knowledge of effective instructional leadership practices that directly impact teaching and learning. The knowledge, skills, and dispositions that serve as the framework for the Tier I Program are based on the Georgia Educational Leadership Standards. These standards are closely aligned with both the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL) and the Georgia Leader Keys Effectiveness System (LKES) Standards. This is a two-year program.

Tier I Certification-Only

Similarly, to the M.Ed., this program is designed for working education professionals with at least three years of experience and who possess a master’s degree but seek Tier I certification only. While there is an established set of courses students are expected to complete, an individualized program of studies can be offered based on students’ prior academic work. Again, this program leads to the initial leadership certification. This program can be completed in 3 semesters or less.

Accreditations

The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Georgia may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Technology Requirements

  • Computer with current operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux). Additional peripherals such as webcam, headphones, and printer may be required.
  • High-speed internet access.

Admissions

Credit and Transfer

Total hours required to earn degree: 36 credit hours

Total hours required to earn certificate: 9-18 credit hours (customized program of studies)

Maximum hours transferable into program: 6

Only transfer credits from an accredited institution will be considered. If transfer credit is awarded, it will still be necessary to complete the required number of hours to graduate, which will more than likely necessitate additional coursework above and beyond the degree program requirements. In sum, it depends and it is important to consult the program adviser.

M.Ed. in Education in Educational Administration and Policy Admission Requirements

Prospective candidates must, at a minimum:

· Hold Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university,

· Hold a clear renewable Georgia Professional Standards Commission Certification at Level 4,

· Have a preferred cumulative grade point average for all previous undergraduate and graduate courses as being 3.25 or above on a 4-point scale,

· Provide two letters of recommendation from individuals (one from a current school administrator) who know you professionally or as a scholar,

· Have a preferred minimum of 3 years experience in an educational setting,

· Provide a brief statement of purpose consistent with the intended focus of the program. This statement must include the following: (1) academic and/or career goals, and (2) why you want a Tier I leadership certificate? This statement should not exceed one page.,

· If admitted, participate in the required On-Campus Institute (The UGA Experience), and

· Have access to a computer with high-speed internet access, and an email account

Tier I Certification-Only Admission Requirements

Prospective candidates must, at a minimum:

· Hold a Master’s degree or higher (Ed.S., Ed.D., or Ph.D.) in an education-related field from an accredited college or university,

· Hold at least a clear renewable Georgia Professional Standards Commission Certification at Level 4,

· Have a preferred cumulative grade point average for all previous undergraduate and graduate courses as being 3.25 or above on a 4-point scale,

· Provide two letters of recommendation from individuals (one from a current school administrator) who know you professionally or as a scholar,

· Have a preferred minimum of 3 years experience in an educational setting,

· Provide a brief statement of purpose consistent with the intended focus of the program. This statement must include the following: (1) academic and/or career goals, and (2) why you want a Tier I leadership certificate. This statement should not exceed one page.,

· If admitted, participate in the required On-Campus Institute (The UGA Experience), and

· Have access to a computer with high-speed internet access, and an email account

Although minimum and preferred requirements are outlined, applications are reviewed holistically. No standardized test scores (GRE or MAT) are required.

Master of Education in Educational Administration and Policy Application Deadlines

Domestic Applicants

· Fall: July 1

· Spring: November 15

· Summer: April 1

International Applicants

· Fall: April 15

· Spring: October 15

· Summer: February 15 Registration deadlines vary per semester. The UGA Office of the Registrar website provides up-to-date information on registration dates.

 

Curriculum

Our prescribed curricula are intentionally designed to meet students’ professional needs. Anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in educational administration, leadership, and policy, students will explore, examine, and analyze the intricacies of the U.S. education system. A minimum of 36 credit hours are required to graduate with an M.Ed. The Certification-Only program credit hours requirement varies. Each course is 3 credit hours.

M.Ed. in Educational Administration and Policy

Fall

EDAP 7020E: Instructional Leadership for School Improvement

EDAP 7801E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership I

EDAP 8115E: Educational Leadership for Student Success

Spring

EDAP 7040E: Education Law and Ethical Leadership

EDAP 7050E: Talent Management for Continuous Improvement

EDAP 7802E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership II

Summer

EDAP 7060E: Policies, Systems, and Resources for Educational Enterprises

EDAP 7803E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership III

EDAP 8390E: School, Family, and Community Connections

Tier I Certification-Only

EDAP 8115E: Instructional Leadership for School Improvement

EDAP 7040E: Education Law and Ethical Leadership

EDAP 8405E: Leadership in a Diverse Society

EDAP 7801E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership I

EDAP 7802E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership II

EDAP 7803E: Clinical Practices in Educational Leadership III

 

Contact Information

Email us using the request for information form or call 706-452-7935