The Department of Educational Psychology, Foundations and Leadership Studies, in conjunction with Continuing and Distance Education, presents the principalship program leading to a Master of Arts in Education (MAE) degree or an Advanced Studies Certificate (ASC).* This two-year program is designed for persons seeking endorsement in the state of Iowa as a PK-12 Principal/PK-12 Supervisor of Special Education (Iowa Endorsement #189 and #190).
This performance-based program is unique in that it minimizes student class time and maximizes on-site skill development while working with a mentor. Students entering this program are required to devote a considerable amount of time in an internship experience where work products and skills are developed.
Applications are currently being accepted for the Fall 2021 cohort.
Apply by April 15, 2021 for full consideration.
View/download a flyer with additional information
Program highlights
- Program requirements and outcomes based on Iowa leadership standards.
- Program completion in 2 years — 35 units of graduate credit via 13 courses and extensive internship experiences
- Program delivered one night per week during the fall and spring semesters via interactive video conferencing. The first summer session includes a 6-day on-campus experience. Coursework and some courses are offered entirely online using Blackboard, a learning management system.
- Cohort delivery model — build a network and study with the same group of adult learners for the duration of the program
- Students are provided a mentor, field supervisor, and an advisor to assist in successful and timely completion of the program.
Read detailed program information on the UNI College of Education EPFLS department to learn more.
* Students who have already earned an MAE often choose to pursue the Advanced Studies Certificate (ASC) for the principalship program. The ASC also leads to certification as a PreK-12 principal in Iowa and includes the same coursework and internship experiences as the MAE, with minor exceptions. Generally, students who have completed an MAE have already taken a graduate-level course in Educational Research, which may satisfy the UNI requirement (if a grade of B or higher is earned). The UNI Principalship program coordinator will evaluate the previous coursework following admission to the program and inform students if their course qualifies for transfer.
Convenient course delivery
Courses are offered in asynchronous and synchronous formats. Some courses are synchronous and take place on Mondays or Wednesdays evenings (depending on the cohort), via interactive video conferencing. The first summer session includes a 6-day on-campus experience. A few courses are offered entirely online using Blackboard, a learning management system that will enhance your experience and sense of community with fellow classmates.
While most students encounter very few technical difficulties, our team of support specialists is available to assist you as needed. For your convenience, you will have access to the UNI Rod Library.
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