M.A. Leadership in Education Administration
Prepare to lead as a principal, instructional supervisor, or district administrator through West Liberty’s Leadership in Education Administration concentration.
Step into leadership and
shape the future of education
The Leadership in Education Administration concentration is designed for educators ready to move beyond the classroom and into impactful leadership roles. Through a blend of practical application, research, and leadership development, this program prepares you to guide teams, improve school performance, and lead meaningful change in today’s educational environments.
Leadership in Education
Administration Overview
The Leadership in Education Administration concentration within the M.A. in Education program focuses on developing effective, forward-thinking educational leaders. Students gain the knowledge and practical skills necessary to manage schools, support teachers, and drive student success through strategic planning, policy implementation, and instructional leadership.
This concentration emphasizes real-world leadership challenges, preparing graduates to take on roles that influence school culture, curriculum development, and organizational effectiveness. Graduates are equipped to lead with confidence in diverse educational settings and respond to the evolving demands of today’s schools.
Who is
This For
Aspiring School Leaders
Educators preparing for roles such as principal or assistant principal
Instructional Leaders
Teachers seeking to guide curriculum, instruction, and professional development
Education Administrators
Professionals aiming to move into supervisory or district-level leadership roles
Career Advancers in Education
Licensed educators looking to expand their impact and earning potential
Change Agents in Schools
Individuals passionate about improving school systems, culture, and outcomes
What
You’ll Learn
Educational Leadership & Administration
- Develop leadership strategies for schools and educational organizations
- Understand administrative responsibilities and school operations
- Lead teams and manage personnel effectively
Policy, Law & Ethics
- Navigate educational policy and governance structures
- Apply legal and ethical principles in school leadership
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
Instructional Leadership
- Support teacher effectiveness and instructional improvement
- Lead curriculum development and implementation
- Use data to inform instructional decisions
Organizational & Strategic Management
- Implement school improvement plans
- Manage budgets, resources, and organizational systems
- Drive change through strategic planning and leadership
Skills You’ll
Develop
Strategic Leadership
- Align school goals with district and community priorities
- Lead initiatives that improve student outcomes
Instructional Coaching
- Support teacher growth and instructional excellence
- Guide curriculum and assessment practices
Organizational Management
- Oversee school operations, budgets, and resources
- Foster effective, high-performing teams
Critical Thinking
- Analyze complex educational challenges
- Make data-informed leadership decisions
Communication & Collaboration
- Build strong relationships with staff, families, and communities
- Lead with clarity, transparency, and purpose
Curriculum
The Leadership in Education Administration concentration combines foundational MAEd coursework with specialized leadership training designed to prepare graduates for administrative roles in education.
Program Structure / Key Curriculum Features
Core MAEd courses include:
- Professional writing
- Research methods
- Assessment and data literacy
- Capstone experience
Leadership concentration courses focus on:
- Educational leadership and administration
- School law and policy
- Instructional supervision and evaluation
- Organizational leadership and management
Program highlights:
- 30 total credit hours (12 core + 18 concentration)
- Flexible delivery options (online, hybrid, or in-person)
- Accelerated course structure with 8-week and 6-week terms
- Capstone project aligned with leadership practice
Careers
& Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across K–12 and educational organizations, including:
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
Median Wage
Job Growth
Openings Per Year
Instructional Coordinators
Median Wage
Job Growth
Openings Per Year
Education Administrators (K–12)
Median Wage
Job Growth
Assistant Principals / School Leaders
Median Wage
Job Growth
District-Level Administrators
Median Wage
Job Growth
Admissions
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum 2.5 GPA (some leadership pathways may require higher)
Completed graduate application
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
GRE/MAT may be required for some applicants
The Hilltop
Advantage
West Liberty University’s M.A. in Education – Leadership in Education Administration concentration combines:
- Flexible learning formats designed for working educators
- Personalized support with small class sizes and expert faculty
- Practical, research-based curriculum aligned with real-world leadership
- Affordable tuition with strong return on investment
- Opportunities to build leadership skills that impact schools and communities
Ready to Advance
Your Career?
Your next step in educational leadership starts here. The Leadership in Education Administration concentration at West Liberty University prepares you to lead with purpose, confidence, and vision—empowering you to shape the future of education.