Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Lead with Purpose. Shape the Future of Education.
The UNT Dallas Master of Education in Educational Leadership with Principal Certification is designed for educators ready to step into impactful leadership roles at the campus or district level.
Whether you aspire to become a principal, assistant principal, or central office administrator, this program builds the skills, vision, and confidence you need to lead schools toward excellence. The curriculum emphasizes effective instruction, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and the creation of a positive school culture—preparing educational leaders to guide with confidence and integrity. Proven theory and current research are applied to real-world scenarios, ensuring leadership decisions strengthen both teacher success and student achievement. Advanced topics in instructional leadership, school culture, curriculum design, and educational policy are explored, with research-based strategies applied to challenges faced by Texas public schools. Expert faculty, a supportive cohort model, and practical field experiences provide the foundation to lead schools toward student achievement and community success.
Leadership Unlocked through Flexible Learning
The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership at UNT Dallas is a 30-credit-hour graduate program designed for current educators and future leaders. While many classes can be completed remotely, some face-to-face sessions and field-based experiences are required to ensure real-world classroom application.
Program Options
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with Principal Certification – A 30-credit-hour program for those seeking both a master’s degree and principal certification.
- On-campus attendance required for select courses and practicum experiences
- Designed to blend theory with hands-on classroom practice
- Total Credit Hours: 30
- 24 hours of core courses
- 3-hour practicum
- 3-hour research in education
- Fall and Spring intakes
- Flexible Course Lengths:
- 16-week sessions (Fall/Spring)
- 8-week sessions (Summer)
- Graduate in 18–24 months, depending on your pace
- Flexible Delivery Options:
- Hybrid (mix of online + in-person)
- In person at the UNT Dallas campus
- Cohort-based learning
An 18-credit-hour program for school leaders who already hold a master’s degree and want to earn principal certification. By completing this program, candidates will be prepared to take the required principal exams and complete the expected practicum hours.
- Total Credit Hours: 18
- 18 hours of focused study which includes a 3-hour practicum
- Fall and Spring intakes
- Flexible Course Lengths:
- 16-week sessions (Fall/Spring)
- 8-week sessions (Summer)
- Graduate in 12–18 months, depending on your pace
- Flexible Delivery Options:
- Hybrid (mix of online + in-person)
- In person at the UNT Dallas campus
Careers with Impact
In less than two years, you’ll build a strong network of fellow education leaders, benefit from small class sizes and personalized support from dedicated faculty, and engage in meaningful conversations about the real challenges facing 21st-century urban schools. Along the way, you’ll earn the TEA-required certification in Advancing Educational Leadership (AEL), gain the skills needed to pass the TExES principal certification exam, and graduate fully prepared and excited to step into leadership roles at the campus or district level in public or private education.
Program Coordinator: Dr. Sheila BrownProgram Fact Sheet
Career Options Include:
- Principal
- Assistant/Associate Principal
- Dean of Instruction
- Supervisor
- Department Chair
- Central Office Administrator (Director)
- Athletic Director
- Education Service Center Coordinators
- Directors