The North Carolina Principal Fellows Program (NCPFP) is a competitive, merit-based scholarship loan to persons of exceptional academic ability who have teaching or relevant experience and desire to enter school administration in a North Carolina public school.
Program Options
There are two paths to the Master of School Administration (MSA) - see which one is right for you.
Traditional MSA
A flexible, part‑time graduate program designed for working educators who want to advance into school leadership while maintaining their current professional responsibilities.
- Coursework Commitment — Part‑time (6 hrs.) online for 6 consecutive semesters
- Financial Commitment — Standard tuition rates and fees
- Program Benefits — Flexible part‑time schedule for working educators
- Start Dates — Fall, Spring, and Summer entry
- Teaching Experience Required — Minimum of 3 years
- How to Apply — Apply directly through the App State Graduate School
Contact: Dr. Kimberly Money, moneykd@appstate.edu
Principal Fellows MSA
A full‑time, cohort‑based leadership preparation program offering intensive coursework, coaching, and funded support for aspiring school administrators.
- Coursework Commitment — Full‑time (9 hrs.) for 2 academic years + summer Professional Development
- Financial Commitment — Grant‑funded in‑state tuition and books*
- Program Benefits — Executive Coach during internship and first AP year
- Start Dates — Cohorts begin Fall 2022, 2024, 2026
- Teaching Experience Required — Minimum of 4 years
- How to Apply — Two‑step process: District application → App State Graduate School
Contact: Dr. Betsy Rosenbalm, rosenbalmem@appstate.edu
*Subject to repayment if not employed in an administrative role after graduation in a NC public school