Master's of Education in Education Leadership

A group of students looking over a canyon

Developing Strong Leaders in Education

Program Information

At Western Washington University we pride ourselves in welcoming participants who come to us as students, are treated as colleagues, and graduate as life-long friends. Since 1944 WWU has developed strong leaders in education in a program taught by practicing experts in education who provide:

  • Curriculum aligned to the Professional Educational Leaders Standards
  • Practical, relevant, research-based coursework
  • School-based assignments
  • Strong student support

All classes are taught by current, or recently retired, Washington Administrators in conjunction with WWU Faculty. 

 

*Note: WA state students may apply any quarter, but the BC program only admits in fall quarter.

Goals

The Education Leadership program is designed to prepare elementary and secondary school teachers and ESAs to assume leadership roles as principals, vice principals, program and department leaders, or instructional technology specialists. Candidates receive a master’s degree and/or are recommended for principal certification after completion of a year-long internship.

Application Requirements

  • All applicants must complete the Graduate School's ApplyWeb application and pay the $100 application fee.
  • Within the application you will be prompted to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
  • Additional application materials are specified below. Applications will not be forwarded to the department for review until all required materials have been received by the Graduate School.
  • International Applicants: Please review the requirements for information regarding Degree Equivalency, English Language Proficiency and student VISA requirements.

Additional Application Requirements

 

  • Statement of Purpose: a letter of intent stating the following:
    1. Why you want to become a school administrator;
    2. How your understanding of diversity relates to improving learning for all students. Include your understanding of diversity and your leadership experiences related to student diversity in your response, recognizing that your school/district has students with diverse backgrounds. For the purpose of this letter of intent, diversity may include but not be limited to: highly capable, special needs, 504 plans, ELL/ESL, ethnicity and culture, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio‐economic status, or other;
    3. Your goals and objectives as an education leader.
  • Resume outlining your education and professional history
  • Three (3) References: One each from two building-level administrators, and one from a district-level administrator.
  • One copy of valid Washington State certificate (teacher or educational staff associate)
    • If submitting an ESA certificate, include a letter from your supervisor describing your assignment and service that supports three years of documented successful school-based experience in an instructional role with students.