The Fairmont State University School of Education, Health & Human Performance has expanded its Educational Leadership program to offer students four pathways including a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, Educational Leadership Certificate, Principal Certificate and Superintendent Certificate.
“Our Educational Leadership degree programs and certificates allow us to assist counties in developing high quality administrators who are well prepared and ready to meet the challenges of an ever-changing educational landscape,” said Dr. Amanda Metcalf, Fairmont State University School of Education, Health & Human Performance Dean. “Taking the next step to becoming an administrator is an important career decision, and we are proud to be working with counties throughout the state in developing tomorrow’s educational leaders.”
Educational Leadership program candidates will develop real-world skills through hands on experiences with education leaders while learning to implement best practices based on current research. The Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Educational Leadership Certificate provide candidates the opportunity to engage in all functions of effective school leadership, while the Principal and Superintendent Certificates will focus on specialized content specific to the pathway chosen by the candidate.
“When we began the conversation about putting these programs together, it was essential to have the right parties at the table,” said Barbara Owens, Fairmont State University Educational Leadership Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor. “We looked primarily to exceptional administrators within our local counties, many of whom are involved in our Professional Development School Partnership. These practitioners, who are now our instructors, ensure that our curriculum is relevant and always the most current. They have integrated coursework with field experiences, thus tying theory to practice.”
Eight week courses for all four pathways will be offered during the traditional school year and during the summer to accommodate program candidates. Students will be admitted year round, with each of the four pathways having a unique set of entrance requirements.
“We are deeply committed to increasing the quality of education at every level,” said Mirta M. Martin, Fairmont State University President. “That includes helping education professionals develop into caring, skilled leaders who are equipped with the knowledge to guide schools to success. Designed by expert, education professionals, these new Educational Leadership programs will do just that, offering paths to suit different goals.”
Interested candidates may submit an application at www.fairmontstate.edu/apply. Applicants will be required to submit an official college transcript with a minimum of a 2.75 undergraduate GPA. For more information visit, www.fairmontstate.edu/educationalleadership.
