Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Programs

The Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies prepares educational leaders to transform school and university/college settings as they lead to social justice. We offer transformational leadership programs with our traditional, on-campus cohorts, and we also offer off-campus cohorts with San Antonio ISD, Northside ISD, North East ISD, Edgewood ISD, the Wintergarden Region, and the Alamo Colleges.

Degree Programs

This degree is for students aspiring to be school leaders and/or educational policy professionals. Students have the choice of three emphasis options to prepare them for educational leadership careers in educational systems or organizations.

  • Emphasis in educational leadership for K-12 school administrators (meets principal certification requirements)
  • Emphasis in educational policy and advocacy
  • Emphasis in teacher leadership

Each emphasis explores the unique problems, processes, and expertise associated with effective and equitable educational leadership. The program highlights the role of cultural, legal, community, and organizational practices in the development of equal educational opportunities for all students.

 

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This degree focuses on comprehensive and social justice-oriented preparation of leaders for entry into and professional advancement in higher education, student affairs, and school-to-university transition. The program integrates classroom-based and field-based learning.

 

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This degree provides advanced academic training in educational leadership, particularly in the area of administrative leadership. Graduates should gain an advanced understanding of theories of education and learning; extensive theoretical background and experiences in emerging paradigms of organizational leadership; high-level research skills for developing, analyzing, and evaluating educational programs; and the knowledge, skills, and understanding to work effectively with English language learners in linguistically diverse educational settings. Participants can work toward their Superintendency Certification through this degree. There are two emphases:

  • K-12 Leadership Emphasis
  • Higher Education Administration Emphasis 

 

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Certificate Programs

The Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration will provide an opportunity for higher education professionals working or seeking to work in the myriad of higher education institutions in the region to develop their knowledge and skills in higher education administration.

Admission Requirements

 

The 15-semester-credit-hour program is designed to prepare campus administrators for a position at the central office level with potential for a position as the superintendent. Program emphasis is on the function, relationships, and changing dynamics of the central office leadership position and superintendent, paying special attention to the application of theory and practice. 

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This social justice and equity-oriented program focuses on developing personal, professional, and community leadership skills and prepares students to lead P-12 educational institutions. We prepare student-centered leaders to understand and address complex and systemic issues that continue to impact educational effectiveness, equity, and achievement.


Designed to meet Texas’ Principal Certification requirements, many faculty members are former teachers and administrators who bring real-world experience and practical knowledge into the classroom. Students benefit from our faculty’s close connections with local school districts, superintendents, and principals, while expanding their professional networks as they work alongside other dedicated educators. 

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College of Education and Human Development
Main Building | One UTSA Circle | San Antonio, TX 78249
Phone: 210-458-4370 | education@utsa.edu