The Educational Leadership M.Ed. program is designed for aspiring educational leaders who are seeking administrative certification. This cohort-based, 36-unit program leads to principal certification in the state of Arizona and can be completed within two years. The cohort concept has been used successfully by the University of Arizona Educational Leadership Program for several years. In this model, students develop formal and informal relationships with other students that support their journey to successful completion of an advanced degree. It also provides a solid foundation for leaders considering doctoral work at the elementary and secondary levels. In fact, some of the core courses may be applied toward the doctoral program in educational leadership.
The traditional M.Ed. course sequence consists of two courses each fall semester and two courses each spring semester. There are also four courses offered in the summer of the first year of participation in the program. Courses are held in the evenings once per week and are generally offered on the university campus. Off-campus locations may also be utilized at times.