Educators Inspired to Lead
Cleveland State University’s Master of Education in Educational Leadership (MEd) Cohort Track program is one of the top principal-licensing programs in Ohio. Designed for busy working professionals, this nationally accredited program is 100% online and provides relevant curriculum from scholar practitioners so you are ready to take on building and district-level leadership positions. Graduate with a master's degree in educational leadership and an Ohio principal’s license.
Time to Complete
Begin in the Fall and complete in 5 semesters
Credits
10 courses totaling 30 credit hours
Get prepared to lead with confidence
When you enroll to earn your online Master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Cleveland State University, you’re joining a program that prioritizes your success and education. Learn in collaboration with your peers and graduate in just five semesters with a cohort track model that prepares you for success in an administrative role and earns you a nationally accredited principal’s license. Our programs offer several benefits, including:
- Nationally accredited program
- Ohio license is widely accepted in many other states
- 100% online format with synchronous online meetings on select Saturdays
- Study with a consistent group of peers with the same guaranteed schedule
- More than 70% of program graduates are hired into new administrative and leadership jobs
- Cohort model taught by scholar–practitioners who are experts in their fields
Learning Methodology
Earn an Educational Leadership Master’s degree online at Cleveland State University. Learn in collaboration with your peers and graduate in just five semesters with a cohort track model that prepares you for success in an administrative role and earns you a nationally accredited principal’s license.
- 10 courses; 30 credits
- Study with a consistent group of peers with the same guaranteed schedule
- Begin in the Fall and complete the program in 5 semesters
- 100% online format with synchronous online meetings on select Saturdays
Admissions Requirements
If you meet the following requirements, we invite you to apply to our Educational Leadership Master’s program. The Educational Leadership program begins each Fall semester.
- Fulfill the College of Graduate Studies requirements for admission, as described in this Catalog.
- Have taken one course in each of the following three areas at either the undergraduate or graduate level:
- Curriculum theory and instruction
- Social foundations
- Human development
- Individuals seeking admission to Educational Leadership and Principal Licensure programs must have a teaching license or a pupil services license which would include individuals working as School Counselors, Psychologists, Nurses, Audiologists, Social Workers, Speech-language Pathologists, and Orientation and Mobility Specialists. To be endorsed for the Principal license, the candidate must have at least two years of successful experience teaching or working under a Pupil Services license at the grade levels for which Principal licensure is sought.
- Satisfy any other requirements the State of Ohio may establish to be eligible for a professional principal license.
Courses
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ADM 614 | Administration Principles and Practices | 3 Credits |
| EDB 601 | Educational Research | 3 Credits |
| ADM 613 | School Law | 3 Credits |
| ADM 615 | Instructional Leadership & Pupil Personnel Administration | 3 Credits |
| ADM 642 | Human Resources & Community Engagement | 3 Credits |
| ADM 643 | School Finance & Facilities Management | 3 Credits |
| ADM 681 | Administration Practicum I School Principal | 3 Credits |
| ADM 674 | Special Education Law | 3 Credits |
| ADM 682 | Administration Practicum II School Principal | 3 Credits |
| ADM 676 | Clinical Supervision & Professional Development | 3 Credits |
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition and financial aid for CSU programs are kept competitive so you can receive the education you deserve. Tuition for online programs and courses follows the same fee structure as traditional, on-campus programs and courses. Current CSU Graduate tuition costs can be found on the Bursar’s website.
Approximately 70% of CSU’s students receive some form of financial assistance. The University participates in or administers all the major federal and state grant and loan programs. In addition, CSU provides University grants and scholarships.
To begin the financial aid process, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You must file a FAFSA every year after January 1st to receive your financial aid. Cleveland State University’s financial aid school code is 003032.
If you have any questions, visit the Financial Aid section of CSU’s website, or contact the Financial Aid office.
Faculty
For our professors, teaching isn’t a profession — it’s a passion. More than 90% of our full-time professors hold the highest degree in their fields. The faculty members who teach online are the same faculty members who teach our traditional, on-campus courses. All faculty members schedule time to meet or talk with students, and they are eager to provide students with personal attention and feedback.
Our faculty’s outstanding achievements in research and scholarship are reflected in an overall increase in research funding. In addition, faculty present their work in nationally and internationally renowned journals, and as speakers at seminal conferences in their fields. For more information on individual CSU faculty, see Cleveland State University Faculty Profile index.
Student Success Coaching
At CSU, you will be paired with a Student Success Coach to support you on your journey from acceptance into a program to graduation. Coaches help with:
- Time management
- Study strategies
- Focus techniques
- Work-life balance
- Academic support resources
- Navigating University policies and procedures
- Resolving issues and locating the right resources
Student Success Coaches will reach out to you for a welcome call early in your program. Coaches can help you create an academic success plan with strategies and goals that will help you be successful. Student Success Coaches are available to you throughout your program. Student Success Coaches do not replace academic advisors or other counselors, but rather work as a team with them to provide you with all the right resources.
Career Outcomes
Forge your path in a variety of careers with a master’s degree in educational leadership.
- Principal
- Academic director or supervisor
- College provost
- Curriculum developer
- Educational consultant
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a Master's of Educational Leadership?
When you graduate with your Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, you’ll also get your Ohio principal’s license. You can become a principal in Ohio or transfer to another state (some restrictions apply; students should verify all requirements in the state they are considering). You are also prepared for other leadership roles in education administration.
What is the average salary for a Master's in Education Leadership graduate?
The average salary for someone with an MEd in Educational Leadership according to the Bureau of Labor statistics is $98,420. Depending on your experience and where you live, your salary could be more or less.
Is a Master's in Educational Leadership worth it?
Yes! Whether or not you go on to become a principal, you’ll have the training you need to make a significant contribution in the field of education.