Certificate Programs

The mission of the programs for an Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership and an Advanced Certificate in School District Leadership is to prepare candidates in accordance with the highest professional standards to lead schools and school districts. Candidates acquire advanced leadership skills, which are needed to create learning environments that address inequities, optimize teacher performance, and maximize student learning.

The Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership – This five-semester, 30-credit program is designed for candidates who are preparing for leadership positions in public and private schools; the program qualifies candidates for both the New York State School Building Leader Certification (SBL) and the School District Leader Certification (SDL).

The Advanced Certificate in School District Business Leader program is 38 credits (15 credits for candidates with SDL certificates) and qualifies candidates for the New York State School District Business Leader (SDBL) certification.

More info about the M.S.Ed. in Educatiional Leadership and Policy Studies SBL/SDL Sample Plans of Study (Accelerated and Traditional)

Educational Leadership, Advanced Certificate

• School Building Leader Certification
• School District Leader Certification

More information

School District Business Leader, Advanced Certificate

• School District Business Leader Certification

More information

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years of teaching experience are required?

Applicants for the Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership must have at least two years of PreK-12 certified classroom teaching or pupil personnel experience and possess a master’s degree. SDBL Applicants must have completed a master’s degree and a minimum of five years of full-time experience in a professional position in educational or non-educational organizations. A master’s degree in business administration or accounting is preferred.

Are scholarships available?

There are limited scholarships available for those who apply. All candidates’ application materials are reviewed to evaluate scholarly potential. While the deadline for admission is rolling, those interested in scholarship opportunities are encouraged to apply early for their semester of interest.

Are the GREs required for these programs?

The GREs are not required. For more information about admission requirements, please visit the admission.

Are any of the courses offered online?

Currently all courses are face to face, however some courses are designed in hybrid formats, where online instruction is blended with in-person components.

Will the courses interfere with my teaching job?

The program is designed for working professionals.  The one course per semester meets one day per week at 4:30 p.m.

Please visit the Office of Graduate Admissions to view additional FAQs and learn more about the online application process. 

Admission Requirements

Applications to the certificate programs are submitted through the Office of Graduate Admissions online system Apply Yourself. They are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year for enrollment during the Fall or Spring semesters.  Courses are offered during three summer sessions and during January intersession, so applicants may contact the program director for details about beginning the program during these alternate sessions.