Student Learning Outcomes - The graduate with the Master of Science in Education degree in Educational Leadership will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to promote the success of all students by:
- Developing and implementing a vision for the school to guide the learning of all students and promote continuous school improvement.
- Providing instructional leadership that ensures a viable curriculum, effective instruction, professional learning, a positive school culture, and an equitable learning environment.
- Providing managerial leadership that ensures a safe, functional school environment, effective supervision of personnel, and the equitable and strategic use of school resources.
- Developing positive, supportive relationships with students, staff, parents/guardians, and the community.
- Continuing professional growth, reflective practice, and the ability to apply new knowledge and understanding to drive change and innovations.
The M.S.E. in Educational Leadership program prepares school leaders who are reflective practitioners by requiring candidates to think analytically, practically and creatively about the teaching, learning, and the decision making processes associated with educational leadership.
A student who holds or is eligible for a valid Missouri teaching certificate and has teaching experience may pursue the Master of Science in Education Degree in Educational Leadership.
To be accepted, a student must have a minimum overall undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 or a 3.00 grade point average during the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate study. Applicants who do not meet any of the above GPA criteria must 1) submit a summative teacher evaluation or a letter of recommendation from a current school administrator, and 2) achieve a minimum of a 3.50 graduate grade point average during their first 12 hours of graduate study, which must include required degree courses.
The M.S.E. in Educational Leadership requires a minimum of 34 semester hours. Two semesters of internship are required and represents a significant practicum component within the program. Students who currently hold a UCM masters degree in education or in an education-related field are eligible for the 24 hour 2nd masters degree option available to UCM graduates, however this program of study may not meet DESE certification requirements.
Upon acceptance, the student will be assigned an adviser to assist in reviewing program requirements, including required and elective courses, enrollment procedures, internship requirements, timeframe, graduation requirements, and state testing requirements. Working with their adviser, students should become familiar with MyCentral, student email, and the degree audit.
The M.S.E. in Educational Leadership includes the course requirements for initial certification by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for the School Leader: Grades K-12 administrator certificate. Initial certification requirements include the completion of a masters degree in educational leadership; completion of a course in Education of the Exceptional Child; a valid Missouri teaching certificate; a minimum of three years of teaching experience; and the satisfactory completion of all requirements established by DESE, including passing scores on required assessments.
An applicant for an initial School Leader: Grades K-12 certificate must receive a recommendation for DESE certification from the UCM Director of Clinical Services and Certification. Recommendation will be based upon the completion of all requirements established by DESE. Inquiries regarding DESE certification in school administration can be directed to the UCM Director of Clinical Services and Certification at 660-543-8441. For information concerning degree contact the Educational Leadership program coordinator in the Department of Counseling and Educational Leadership.
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