Lead schools and shape futures with KU

Earn an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in Educational Administration or a PK–12 Certificate in Educational Administration from the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences. Designed for working educators, these programs combine applied leadership training, supervised internship experiences, and licensure-focused preparation.* 

M.S.E. in Education Administration

PK-12 Certificate in Educational Administration

*The online academic programs fulfill Kansas state standards for the Building Leadership and Administration licensure endorsement and help prepare students for building-level certification examinations required by other states. Students must confirm licensure requirements in their state of residence.

Programs are structured to allow educators to continue working while preparing for leadership roles.

• 100% online coursework
• Eight-week mini-terms
• Three starts per year (M.S.E.)
• Two starts per year (Certificate)
• No GRE required

• Educational policy and governance
• School finance and resource allocation
• Human resources and staff evaluation
• Instructional leadership
• School improvement planning
• Ethical and equitable decision-making

Explore how to support autistic learners through evidence-based practices, collaborative strategies, and individualized approaches that recognize each student’s strengths. You’ll build practical skills to design meaningful interventions across school, home, and community settings.

24 credits | Complete in 12–16 months | No GRE required

36 credits | Complete in as few as 2 years | No GRE required

Designed for licensed educators who already hold a master’s degree and want to pursue principal certification.

• Focused pathway to building leadership endorsement
• Applied leadership coursework
• Supervised internship experience
• Licensure preparation aligned to Kansas standards

Designed for educators seeking a master’s degree and building leadership licensure preparation.

• Practice real-world leadership decision-making
• Complete a supervised internship
• Prepare for Kansas building leadership licensure
• Develop skills in school improvement, HR management, policy, and staff evaluation
• Non-Licensure Track available for professionals developing leadership skills but don’t need credentials

Note: In order to enroll in this program, a bachelor's degree, a master's degree in an education-related field, current teaching license, and PK-12 teaching experience under that license are required.

*The online master’s in educational administration Building Leadership track meets the educational requirements for the added building leadership endorsement in the state of Kansas if the candidate already holds a professional teaching license. A bachelor’s degree, current teaching license, and PK-12 teaching experience under that license are required.

Ranked among the best by U.S. News and World Report

Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration Programs¹

Best Online Master’s in Education Programs for Veterans¹

Best Education School²

Through KU’s interactive virtual school district, Jayhawkville, students:

• Practice building leadership strategies
• Navigate realistic school-based scenarios
• Analyze district-level data
• Make policy and personnel decisions
• Receive structured feedback

Built on real Kansas district data, Jayhawkville provides a practice environment designed to strengthen readiness for school leadership.

These programs may be a strong fit if you:

• Want to become a principal or assistant principal
• Are preparing for building leadership licensure
• Seek greater responsibility and influence in your school
• Want to lead school improvement initiatives

Are ready to transition from classroom teaching into administration?

MAY

JUNE

Application Deadline

Next Start

14

1

Spring 2026 Term

Spring 2026 Term

Start making a difference today. Whether you’re ready to earn your master’s or begin with a graduate certificate, KU is here to support your journey toward empowering students with autism.

Source

1. Retrieved on February 20, 2026, from usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-kansas-155317 
2. Retrieved on August 13, 2025, from usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/edu-rankings

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