Master of Education At the master’s degree level, students may choose programs leading to Virginia endorsement in school administration and supervision or programs of study focusing on research in educational leadership and policy studies.
Those seeking full administrative endorsement are required to complete an internship, the School Leadership Licensure Assessment examination, and course work in general leadership studies, communication skills, teaching and learning, and school management, and an area of specialization. The minimum number of credits for a master’s degree leading to full administrative endorsement is 36 and 30 hours must be taken after admission to the program. In addition to courses in administration and supervision, students are encouraged to select one elective from social foundations of education, psychological foundations of education, curriculum and instruction, and research.
Applicants for advanced graduate study (post-master’s) in administration and supervision programs should complete two years of administrative and/or supervisory experience before the degree is awarded. Because many states require teaching professional experience as part of the endorsement requirement (3 years in Virginia), the student is urged to check state requirements before seeking certification. Students with at least two years of teaching experience will be given strong preference over those without teaching experience for admission to the principal preparation and supervision programs.
Education Specialist The Education Specialist (Ed.S) program emphasizes the development of specialized skills and in-depth familiarity with a particular professional role in educational leadership. Generally, the pattern of course work for each student is planned to complement work already completed at the master’s degree level. Internships and practica, depending upon the need of the individual student, may be included in the program. The Ed.S. is a planned 30-credit (minimum) post-master’s program, 24 credits of which must be taken on Grounds or in one approved UVa off-grounds program; 24 credits must be taken after admission to the program. Virginia endorsement, either full or partial, in school administration and/or supervision may be earned as part of an education specialist program.
Doctor of Education and Doctor of Philosophy Programs leading to the degrees of Doctor of Education and Doctor of Philosophy are designed to provide the highest level of preparation for professional and scholarly leadership. See the program area website for additional information.
Professional Development Certificate Program This is a state-approved program for individuals seeking endorsement in preK-12 school administration and supervision. Applicants must have already earned a M.Ed. and be seeking state endorsement and a position as principal, assistant principal, or central office supervisor. Students must complete the core program of 30 credits and oass the state proficiency examination. In addition, students are required to complete an internship. See the Administration and Supervision handbook on the Curry website for additional requirements.
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