Principalship (MAE/ASC)

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Overview

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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Program Schedule

Principalship (MAE/ASC) - Purple - Fall 2021 Cohort

Tentative course schedule
Click on a course title to view the course description (if available).

Fall 2021

EDLEAD

6206

Orientation to Educational Leadership Standards

Orientation to the study and practice of school leadership, the Iowa Standards for School Leaders (ISSL), current and historical trends impacting school and the principalship and philosophical perspectives impacting school leadership. Corequisite(s): EDLEAD 6247

2 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6247

School Management for Student Learning

Examination of key administrative management concepts and techniques employed by effective school principals to support student learning and achievement. Corequisite(s): EDLEAD 6206.

3 unit(s)

Spring 2022

EDLEAD

6282

Leading School Growth and Improvement

Study of the teacher leader's role in leading school growth and improvement and the change process.

2 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6291

Internship

Advanced supervised experience to further develop skills in Teacher Leader Model Standards. Offered on credit/no credit basis only. May be repeated for maximum of 2 hours.

1 unit(s)

MEASRES

6205

Educational Research

An introduction to research methods relevant to educational research with an emphasis on how these methods address the challenges of conducting research in applied settings such as schools. Course content includes a survey of major types of research designs (both quantitative and qualitative) and their associated approaches for minimizing bias, establishing validity, collecting data and drawing conclusions. A primary goal of this course is to equip students with an understanding of basic concepts and tools so they can systematically locate, efficiently read and critically evaluate empirical research studies.

3 unit(s)

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.

Summer 2022

EDLEAD

6245

Leadership for Effective Schools

Study of contemporary leadership, change, and staff development in school organizations.

3 unit(s)

May term

EDLEAD

6289

Seminar: School Leadership

2 unit(s)

SPED

6260

Special Education Law and Policy

Provides information and conceptual understanding of legislative, executive, and judicial action affecting special education programs for children and youth with disabilities. Prerequisite(s): graduate standing.

3 unit(s)

Fall 2022

EDLEAD

6249

Leading Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum

(Tailored for teacher leaders in American international schools) Extensive study in the knowledge and skills needed by teacher leaders to help lead the development and delivery of curriculum, assessment and instruction focused on student achievement.

3 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6284

Evaluator Approval for Improved Student Learning

Development of knowledge of various problems and procedures in the organization of elementary and secondary school professional growth. Special emphasis on supervision processes and identifying and analyzing effective teaching and performance behaviors.

3 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6291

Internship

Advanced supervised experience to further develop skills in Teacher Leader Model Standards. Offered on credit/no credit basis only. May be repeated for maximum of 2 hours.

1 unit(s)

Spring 2023

EDLEAD

6225

Activities Administration

The study and in-school application of current research and promising practices related to the administration of PK-12 school activities programs, including athletics, fine arts, clubs, etc. and their role in school's overall programming and mission. Prerequisite(s): EDLEAD 6206 (270:206); EDLEAD 6247 (270:247); or consent of instructor.

2 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6235

Community Connections

Exploration and in-school/community application of current research on promising practices and strategies that support parental and community engagement in the school's mission and the principal's role in facilitating stakeholder engagement. Prerequisite(s): EDLEAD 6206 (270:206); EDLEAD 6247 (270:247); or consent of instructor.

2 unit(s)

EDLEAD

6232

School Governance, Law and Intersystems Relations

Development of knowledge of the many aspects of local, regional, state, and federal governance of public schools, legal issues, school funding, respect for people's rights, and competence in managing school risk to avoid legal liability. Prerequisite(s): EDLEAD 6206; EDLEAD 6245.

3 unit(s)

Summer 2023

EDLEAD

6292

Capstone in Educational Leadership

Final work project that demonstrates application and synthesizes Iowa standards. Prerequisite(s): EDLEAD 6206; EDLEAD 6247; or consent of instructor.

1 unit(s)

May term

EDLEAD

6248

Leading Instruction in Schools

Intensive study of the knowledge and skills needed by teacher leaders to support Professional Learning Communities, effectively use technology, develop teacher leadership, and embrace the role of the instructional leader.

3 unit(s)

FAQs

General information

What are the costs?

All students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of location, making it an affordable option for all students.

Tuition for the 2020-21 academic year is $509 per unit of graduate credit or $320 per unit of undergraduate credit. An additional technology fee per course may apply. Tuition and fees are expected to rise each May, typically announced by the Iowa Board of Regents in March.

Do I qualify for financial aid?

Distance education students may qualify for financial aid with the following eligibility requirements:

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Be admitted to UNI and enrolled in a degree-seeking or Advanced Studies Certificate program
Be enrolled for a minimum number of credits per semester or summer session
Be in compliance with satisfactory academic progress standards

Specific questions about financial aid should be directed to the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at 319-273-2700 or fin-aid@uni.edu

Why choose the University of Northern Iowa?

Since its establishment in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School, the University of Northern Iowa has maintained its affirmed commitment to the support of excellence in teacher education. That commitment remains strong as the university continues to prepare students to become teachers, as well as provide opportunities for career advancement in the field of education. In addition to a commitment to teaching, our faculty members are engaged in research, writing and professional development. View UNI's national rankings and honors.

I'm not sure about distance learning. How can I make sure it’s right for me?

Research findings demonstrate that students of all types of learning styles can succeed in a distance environment. View our tips for being a successful distance learner.

What kind of support services can I expect to receive?

The University of Northern Iowa is committed to providing comprehensive support services for distance education students. The Office of Continuing and Distance Education serves as your primary point of contact in accessing distance education support services, including enrollment services, technical support for online course tools and more. You are also given access to the UNI Rod Library’s print and electronic collections for your convenience. View a complete list of services and support resources.

Please contact the Office of Continuing and Distance Education at 319-273-7206, 800-648-3864 or distance@uni.edu with any questions. If we don’t have the answer, we will do our best to find it.

Will academic advising assistance be provided?

You will work with the program coordinator when communicating about the program of study. Once participating in the program, you will be assigned a faculty advisor who will work with you one-on-one regarding your progress in the program.

Program specific information

How do I get started?

See the "Next Steps" tab above for information. If you have any questions, please contact the program coordinator(s) and/or enrollment contact below or contact the Office of Continuing and Distance Education at ContinuingEd@uni.edu.

What happens if I miss a course in the sequence?

While it is often possible to make up courses that are missed, our commitment is to deliver the courses as outlined in the cohort schedule. This is not designed as a program in which students come and go. Rather, the cohort model requires that students take the prescribed sequence in unison. Should you need to miss a course, you should consult with your program advisor for options.

Is the GRE or any other examination required?

There are no entrance exam requirements for this program.

How will I enroll in the courses?

When you have completed the steps to admission and have been accepted into the program, we will send you details and information about how to enroll in the first course. After you participate in the first term of courses in the cohort sequence, the Office of Continuing and Distance Education will notify you with enrollment details for the next term of courses as they become available. You are required to enroll in your courses each semester.

Can I take the courses out of sequence or start at a later date?

The program is planned so that students move through the sequence of courses as a cohort group. The first course forms a foundation for the program and includes an introduction unit describing the program goals, sequence of courses, standards, rubrics and academic expectations. For that reason, it is important that you enroll and complete the courses in the same sequence. Program faculty expect that students have a growing knowledge of concepts built upon a prescribed sequence of courses. In addition, program faculty work to build an online community as students move through the course sequence together.

How are the courses delivered?

For information about course delivery, please see the "Overview" tab above.

Additional FAQs

What are the GPA guidelines?

Undergraduate GPA	Admission consideration
3.0 and above	May be considered for full admission
2.75-2.99	May be considered for provisional admission
Less than 2.75	May be denied admission

Can transfer credits from another college/university apply toward program requirements?

In general, students complete the full set of courses outlined in the program. It is possible to transfer a limited number of graduate credits. However, this credit must meet the following criteria:

Course must be a regular graduate course with a graduate course number (not professional development or college credit through an Educational Agency or conference).
Course must be taken by the student in graduate status, and the official transcript must show a grade of B or better earned.
Course must be applicable as a graduate requirement at the institution where it is taken.
Course must be taught by regular graduate faculty.
Course must meet the UNI seven-year recency requirement.
Academic departments will determine whether or not they wish to accept transfer credit even if it meets the above requirements. These criteria were established to prevent credits not intended for use toward graduate degrees (i.e., Area Education Agency/professional development credits) from being used to meet UNI degree program requirements.

Please check with the program coordinator about specific situations.

What are the benefits of pursuing the Principalship MAE degree?

Although the program is especially aimed at developing the skills, knowledge and dispositions needed for effective school leadership, our graduates routinely and consistently say their experiences in the program have made them better teachers. Students completing the program enter the principalship, as well as assuming roles as lead teachers, School Administration Managers (SAM's), and other opportunities. In addition to professional advancement, benefits include developing a balcony view of schools and leadership, sharpening one's philosophy around what schools are and should become, and developing an engaging, widespread professional network of mentors, colleagues, and resources.

What is the Advanced Studies Certificate (ASC) option?

Students who have previously earned a master's degree in education often choose the ASC over a second master's degree if they are considering applying to the UNI Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) program upon completion of the ASC. Doing so allows the credit hours (units) earned for the ASC to be counted toward the Principalship Intensive Study Area in the doctoral program.

Is teacher licensure required for admission?

Yes, a standard teaching licensure' is required for admission. If you do not have a standard license, you must successfully complete a teacher education coursework and 2 years of teaching before beginning this graduate program.

If you are a post-BA student and have been in the workforce for several years, you may wish to explore an alternative licensure program - the Iowa Intern License Pathway.

Next Steps

Step one: Express your interest

Complete the online interest form to the right in order to proceed with your application for admission to the Principalship (MAE/ASC) cohort.

Step two: Apply for admission

We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2021 cohort. Full consideration will be given to applications received by April 15, 2021.

Application guidelines can be found on the UNI Educational Psychology, Foundations and Leadership webpage

Delivery of the program is contingent on a sufficient number of students being accepted into the program.

Program Coordinator(s):

Kenneth Hayes

Educational Psychology, Foundations, and Leadership Studies

(319) 273-6264

Kenneth.Hayes@uni.edu

Enrollment Contact:

Janelle Finke

Continuing and Distance Education

(319) 273-7740

Janelle.Finke@uni.edu

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Continuing Education and Special Programs

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Program highlights

Convenient course delivery

Connect with the UNI Educational Leadership

Principalship (MAE/ASC) - Purple - Fall 2021 Cohort

General information

Program specific information

Additional FAQs

Step one: Express your interest

Step two: Apply for admission

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