K-12 Leadership

The NDSU Educational Leadership Program transforms a passion for education into the practical, professional, and organizational skills needed to lead and enhance student success in K-12 settings. Students work collaboratively with professors and peers, building lasting networks with educational leaders.

Teacher talking with a student teacher in a classroom setting with students sitting at individual desks

  1. Provide an approved leadership and credential program.
  2. Enhance the effectiveness of K-12 leadership, driving higher student achievement.
  3. Offer professional support to area schools, school districts, administrators, and state and national associations.
  4. Advance research in education, leadership, and the administration of educational programs.

The K-12 Leadership Program offers flexible options to earn your degree:

On-Campus Program: The M.Ed. on-campus option combines face-to-face (synchronous) and online (asynchronous) courses. Candidates join sessions on campus in Fargo or via teleconference, fostering connections with NDSU faculty and peers in real time.

Leadership Academy Program: Designed for teachers in North Dakota school districts, Leadership Academies allow cohorts to earn their degrees together. A District Liaison tailors each academy to integrate district initiatives and promote collaboration, with courses led face-to-face by NDSU faculty within the district.

The K-12 Leadership Program prepares students for various PK-12 and school district leadership roles:

  • Teacher Leadership
  • Elementary or Secondary Principal
  • Superintendent

  • Application Deadline: April 1
  • Program Start: Fall semester
  • Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Credits Required: 32
  • Course Topics: Leadership, organizational behavior, educational law, curriculum and instruction, staff development
  • Additional Requirements: Portfolio completion

For curriculum details, view the M.Ed. Curriculum Sheets: Elementary PDF | Secondary PDF

NDSU’s advanced licensure programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

The program aligns with North Dakota credential requirements, though final endorsement is granted by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction. Prospective credential seekers must verify their teaching experience meets state standards and consult with advisors for specific requirements.

State Authorizations

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Amanda Cordova, K-12 Ed Lead Coordinator

School of Education

Email: marie.champagne@ndsu.edu Phone: (701) 231-7101 Page Manager Facebook