CATALOG

34 credits (Note: Certification Only = 22 credits)

The Heritage University graduate program in Educational Administration provides a rigorous program of study designed to prepare instructional leaders to become outstanding principals and program administrators.  Our goal is to develop successful 21st century leaders through a progressive program of study.

The Educational Administration program is designed for the educator whose career goals are in the area of school administration, principal and/or school district level program administration (e.g., curriculum, special education, business services, or human resources).  Successful graduates qualify for Washington State Principal Certification or Program Administration Certification.

The Educational Administration program features relevant research-based courses, taught by responsive faculty, during a convenient weekend model.  Courses emphasize the Washington State Pre-Service Benchmark Standards for Principal and Program Administrator Certification.  Rigorous admission standards assure that each candidate selected has the academic, personal qualities and characteristics, and leadership ability for success in a school and administrative team setting. The internship agreement establishes a formal and professional working relationship between and among the intern, school district, and Heritage University.

Program Goals
Our primary mission is to prepare and support effective, intellectual, and ethical school leaders who can have a positive impact on student learning.  A graduate with administrator certification will have the ability to positively impact learning for all students by using his/her leadership knowledge, skills, and dispositions to do the following:

1.   Develop, articulate, implement, administer, and share with the school community a vision focused on learning.
2.   Develop and sustain a school instruction program that promotes student learning and staff professional growth at the building level.
3.   Manage a school’s organization, operation, and resources to produce a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment. 
4.   Work positively with families and community members by identifying and responding to diverse community interests and needs by mobilizing community resources.
5.   Promote the success of all students in their building/district by acting with integrity and fairness in an ethical manner.
6.   Understand and respond to the political, social, economic, legal, and cultural context of the school and larger community.

Additional Admission Requirements for Certification

• Admission to Heritage University (graduate application, transcripts, and fee)
• A minimum of 3 years successful teaching experience for Principal Certification (does not include substitute teaching).
• Submit the Administrative Preparation Program Admission Packet.
• Three (3) Administrators’ recommendations (using the University forms). Required recommendations from current principal and the superintendent or designee.  The third recommendation can be from other principals and/or other district office administrators knowledgeable of your character and leadership skills.
• Official transcripts indicating a 3.0 GPA for the last 2 years of undergraduate or graduate work.
• Copy of a valid Washington State teaching and/or E.S.A. certificate showing expiration date (for Principal Certification).
• Résumé showing evidence of leadership and involvement in school district improvement efforts.
• Written statement addressing educational and professional goals.
• ESA candidates must show evidence of three (3) years of “successful school-based instructional experience” (does not include substitute teaching).

5.   Based on submitted materials and qualifications, an interview with the Department Chair and/or Professional Education Advisory Board (PEAB) members and/or committee of University representatives may be required.

Note:  Master's and/or certification candidates are required to maintain a B grade (3.0 or better) in all graduate course work. The candidate has two years upon completion of the internship to complete the certification process.

Program admission decisions are based on an analysis of applicant profiles made by the Heritage University PEAB, comprised of faculty and school practitioners.  The PEAB meets a minimum of four times during the academic year and provides recommendations related to applicant's admission, program policy, and content of coursework.

Intern candidates are submitted to the PEAB for recommendation to the Program Chair.  Candidates are informed in writing regarding the status of their internship application.

Principal Credits