Principal Preparation
There are three Illinois endorsement programs offered in Educational Administration: Teacher Leader, Principal Preparation, and Superintendent. Each of these programs is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. The Superintendent endorsement is offered through an Educational Specialist, and Post Master's Certificate. The Principal Preparation endorsement is offered through a Master's, Educational Specialist, and Post Master's Certificate. The Teacher Leader endorsement is offered through a Master's, Educational Specialist, and Post Master's Certificate. Information about the degree requirements for each endorsement option is provided below.
Online Master of Science in Education
Designed for teachers or school support personnel wishing to earn a master's in educational administration and an Illinois Principal Preparation endorsement.
- Ideal for those pursuing both a graduate degree and endorsement simultaneously
Online Education Specialist
For professionals who already have a master's degree in education and want to earn an Illinois Principal Preparation endorsement.
- Includes two fewer core courses than the master’s and a field-based capstone project.
Online Post-Master's Certificate
For those with a completed master's degree seeking an Illinois Principal Preparation endorsement.
- Same courses as the Educational Specialist, without the capstone project
- This option is not eligible for financial aid.
Learn more about the curriculum, admission requirements, and graduation requirements.
Superintendent
Online Education Specialist
Designed for candidates who already have a master's degree and are pursuing an Illinois Superintendent endorsement.
- Includes a field-based capstone project as an exit requirement
Online Post-Master’s Certificate
For candidates who already hold a specialist degree and want to earn an Illinois Superintendent endorsement.
- Same courses as the Educational Specialist, without the capstone project
- This program is not eligible for financial aid.
Learn more about the curriculum, admission requirements, and graduation requirements.
Teacher Leader
Online Master of Science in Education
Designed for educators seeking a master's in educational administration and an Illinois Teacher Leader endorsement.
- Does not lead to an initial Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois
Online Education Specialist
For candidates who already have a master's degree in education and want to earn an Illinois Teacher Leader endorsement.
- Includes two fewer core courses than the master’s and a field-based capstone project
- Does not lead to an initial PEL in Illinois
Online Post-Master’s Certificate
For candidates with a master's degree in education seeking an Illinois Teacher Leader endorsement.
- Same courses as the Educational Specialist, without the capstone project
- Does not lead to an initial PEL in Illinois and is not eligible for financial aid
Learn more about the curriculum, admission requirements, and graduation requirements.
