Program Overview
The Educational Leadership Program is offered by Lipscomb’s College of Education which is consistently ranked as one of the most effective educator preparation programs in the state of Tennessee and the nation. The program is offered online, asynchronously and can be completed in four semesters. We also offer an in-person cohort on our main campus through the Ayers Leadership Fellowship.
Gain the knowledge of a real-world, applicable approach to leadership development in the Educational Leadership Program through immersive authentic learning experiences and learn from practitioners in the field. The Educational Leadership Program is aligned to the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL) and Tennessee Instructional Leadership Standards (TILS). The program includes an explicit focus on relevant and applicable leadership skills and character development for school leaders to lead flourishing communities. Our rigorous program challenges and equips you to lead with character and virtue ethics as you make decisions through practical wisdom and implement effective strategies to manage change that results in the highest educational achievements.
Candidates in the Educational Leadership Program will take courses taught by current practitioners at the school, district, or state level with a first-hand perspective on school leadership. Each candidate participates in authentic learning experiences and engages in formative leadership conversations in three mentorship courses in the program. The program includes a research requirement that prepares candidates for leadership roles in which they will develop and monitor approaches for change at the school or district level.
Candidates will graduate with a degree in Educational Leadership and earn the Tennessee Instructional Leader License (ILL) upon satisfactory completion of all program requirements and passing the School Leader Licensure Assessment (SLLA).
Educators in the state of Kentucky are eligible to earn their principal certification and rank promotion through our online program.
Admissions Requirements
This program requires three completed years of educational experience prior to acceptance. Certificate applicants must have an advanced degree to apply.
- Completed Online Application
- $50 application fee
- Official transcripts for all degrees conferred and any other coursework post bachelors.
- Personal statement:
Explain your goals and your purpose for pursuing a graduate education degree at Lipscomb University and elaborate on how this degree would help you to make an impact on teaching and learning in your classroom or school in a concise, clear essay. (500 words) - Application Essays (2)
- Three Recommendations
- Recommender #1 – Current Administrator/Supervisor (non-family member)
If no direct supervisor, provide another academic reference (see Rec. #2) - Recommender #2 – Academic or Professional Colleague (non-family member)
- Recommender #3 – Personal reference of integrity and/or faith (non-family member)
- Recommender #1 – Current Administrator/Supervisor (non-family member)
- Resume
- Verification of Educational Experience (3 years, minimum)
- Summative Observation Report
The GRE or MAT is not required for application to the program.
View the College of Education's graduate programs application timeline.
Courses
Educators who hold a master's, educational specialist, or doctoral degree in a field of education, and have three years of successful educational experience may enter the Certificate Program for Administration to earn credits toward the Instructional Leader License. The 20-23-credit-hour program provides course work and field experiences to prepare candidates for the SLLA exam required for earning the administrative license.
The program adheres to similar admission standards and procedures and academic policies of the graduate students in education department and the requirements of the Tennessee State Board of Education's learning-centered leadership policy.
Tuition & Aid
The Educational Leadership degree and licensure program is $2,500 per semester.
The Certificate of Administration to earn licensure program is $2,000 per semester.
*Note: The graduate tuition rates may increase annually, effective each summer semester.
Scholarship Information
As you give back to the community, Lipscomb University wants to give back to you. The College of Education offers significant scholarships to current educators and administrators. If you're pursuing career as a teacher, you have scholarship opportunities as well! Check out the following information to see if you qualify for scholarships.
All completed applications should be mailed to:
Lipscomb University
College of Education
One University Park Drive
Nashville, TN 37204
Types of Aid
Field experience hours
Our Faculty
Career Paths
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage all school operations, including daily school activities. They coordinate curriculums, oversee teachers and other school staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students.
Postsecondary Education Administrators
Postsecondary education administrators oversee student services, academics, and faculty research at colleges and universities. Their job duties vary depending on the area of the college they manage, such as admissions, student life, or the registrar’s office.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instructional material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness.