Administrative Preparation Programs

McKendree School of Education offers multiple pathways to Administrative Licensure in both Principalship and Superintendency Licensure in the state of Illinois. Each program is designed to provide rigorous preparation, including intensive coursework and internship experiences, to ensure all candidates are prepared for the rigors of providing leadership in the school setting.

Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)

Our Administrative MAEd Programs are designed for current teachers seeking to advance their careers and leadership opportunities in both , as well as seek licensure renewal and salary advancement. There are multiple pathways for individuals to choose from to design a program suited to their unique school, classroom, and students' needs. All coursework is completed online (predominantly asynchronous) over a 1-3 year period depending on transfer credits and the selected pathway.

• MAEd in Curriculum, Design, and Instruction
  • Educational Administration & Leadership- Principal (Principal as Instructional Leader)
  • Teacher Leader

Additional Program Highlights:

• Transfer Friendly
• Fall, spring, summer start dates
• No student activity or online fees
• Personalized advising & support
• High-quality faculty & staff
• Additional endorsement opportunities

Specialist in Education (EdS) and Doctoral Programs (EdD)

The Specialist and Doctorate Programs work in tandem to progress candidates toward a terminal degree in Curriculum, Design, and Instruction with a focus on Administration. They are designed for administrators who already hold a master's degree and principal licensure seeking to advance their careers and administrative opportunities, as well as seek licensure renewal and salary advancement. Each program takes about two years to complete. The EdS Program can result in a Superintendent License, and the EdD Program culminates in a dissertation in an administrative or teaching-research field of their choice. These advanced programs are designed to expand administrators' practice, knowledge, opportunities, and careers through design and research meant to positively contribute to the education profession. Students must complete the EdS to move on toward the EdD, but do not need to continue on beyond the EdS if they choose.

Additional Program Highlights:

• Transfer Friendly
• Fall, spring, summer start dates
• Cohort opportunities
• Personalized advising & support
• Courses taught by former educators and administrators
• No student activity or online fees
• Additional endorsement opportunities

*Additional Subsequent Teaching Licensure Programs for non-degree seeking students.