Introduction

Northeastern Illinois University's Master of Arts in Educational Leadership is named the best program in the state and 20th overall in the nation on GradReports list of 2020 Best Colleges.  

Students may select one of two concentrations:

  • Higher Education Leadership
  • School Leadership (PreK-12)

Program objectives for the concentrations have been designed to develop exemplary administrative leaders and to foster their continuing growth and effectiveness. Specifically, students in the School Leadership (PreK-12) concentration develop competencies related to effective leadership, educational management practices, and staff development at the school level. This concentration leads to The State of Illinois Principal Endorsement.

The Higher Education Leadership (ENLACE) concentration provides knowledge and skills related to the history and development of colleges, universities, and community colleges, and to effective administrative practices at that level. It stresses an understanding of administrative and supervisory skills for the development and support of instructional systems at the collegiate level.

Credit hours required: 36

Admission Information

The program's School Leadership (PreK-12) concentration admits students for the the fall, spring and summer semesters.

The program's Higher Education Leadership (ENLACE) concentration admits students for the fall semester only. Find out more information about ENLACE's admission procedures.

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Program Benefits

The Goodwin College of Education offers flexible day, evening and weekend classes.

Students get personalized attention from skilled professors in small class sizes, and gain connections to internships, career fairs and educational conferences.

Northeastern offers an affordable tuition and convenient urban locations accessible by car or public transportation.

Completion of the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (School Leadership PreK-12 concentration) will satisfy all standards for teacher licensure as required by the Illinois State Board of Education. Northeastern Illinois University has not made a determination as to whether this education degree program meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in any of the other 54 U.S. states and jurisdictions. Specific requirements for licensure or certification in states other than Illinois vary from state-to-state. In some cases, you may need to take additional coursework or exams to meet individual state requirements and/or you may need to complete background checks.

Career Options

The Higher Education Leadership (ENLACE) concentration prepares students for future Ph.D. programs and careers in higher education areas such as:

  • College Admissions and Recruitment 
  • College Multicultural Centers
  • College Residential Life
  • Student Affairs

The School Leadership (PreK-12) concentration prepares students for careers in:

  • educational leadership
  • educational management
  • staff development

The School Leadership (PreK-12) concentration leads to the new State of Illinois Principal Endorsement. 

For more detailed career information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and the courses offered toward the degree.

Educational Leadership, M.A.

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions, please contact Literacy, Leadership and Development.

Literacy, Leadership and Development

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

We offer an education with value.

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