Appalachian State University’s School Administration program prepares education professionals to become effective, ethical, and equity-driven leaders in K–12 schools and districts. Through graduate degree and certificate options, students gain the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions to lead with purpose, implement data-informed decisions, and foster inclusive learning environments that support all students.
Mission
The mission of the School Administration program is to create significant learning experiences for our program candidates to apply theory and practice that reflect North Carolina school leadership standards. We are dedicated to educational excellence, grounded in ethical and moral principles, equity, and social justice, in ever-changing educational environments.
Program and Licensure Pathways
Course descriptions and programs of study for all programs can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.
Master of School Administration (MSA–Principal Licensure)
The MSA degree program prepares graduates for North Carolina principal licensure (012) and roles such as principal, assistant principal, or director. Candidates must hold North Carolina “A” license or equivalent from another state.
View admission information and deadlines for the Master of School Administration
Graduate Certificate in School Leadership
Designed for candidates who already hold a graduate degree in education (or related field), hold North Carolina “A” license or equivalent from another state, and have at least three years of classroom teaching or related K-12 experience, this certificate program prepares students for North Carolina principal licensure (012) and other education leadership roles.
View admission information and deadlines for the School Leadership Graduate Certificate
Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership (EdD) Educational Administration Concentration
The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership (EdD) concentration in Educational Administration prepares leaders holding a Master of School Administration or related graduate degree and licensure to assume advanced organizational leadership roles. This dual degree program provides coursework for the Education Specialist (EdS) degree in School Administration, with eligibility for the Superintendent Licensure (Specialist Level), followed by coursework and dissertation research leading to the doctoral degree (EdD), with eligibility for licensure upgrade to Doctoral level. NC principal licensure is required at the time of application.
Graduates emerge as visionary leaders ready to influence policy, guide institutional transformation, and champion equity-driven excellence in education.
Learn more about the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership (EdD)
Contact
Dr. Jason LaFrance, Program Director
Educational Administration Program
lafranceja@appstate.edu
828-262-7619
Dr. Kimberly Money, Program Director
School Administration & Graduate Certificate Programs
moneykd@appstate.edu
828-262-8380
Dr. Betsy Rosenbalm, Director of Public School Partnerships
Co-Director of North Carolina Principal Fellows
rosenbalmem@appstate.edu
828-262-6108