University of Southern Maine

The USM Educational Leadership program recognizes the career paths of education professionals, from classroom teachers who aspire to school leadership to experienced administrators who are pursuing advanced positions at the district level. Three types of programs-the Certificate, the Master's degree, and the Certificate of Advanced Study-provide learning opportunities and credentials for those at different points in their career development paths. Because those who are pursuing advanced study have often identified their own learning goals and needs, programs are designed to draw on the professional experiences of students and to use the real problems they face in their classrooms, schools, and districts as part of the educational program.

The Educational Leadership Program offers several program options:

Certificate Programs: The 12-18 credit certificate programs are designed for education professionals who are ready to begin advancing their career through additional studies. Credits earned in each of our programs are transferable to the Master's or Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership; thus, the earning of a certificate is an excellent way for students to explore their interest in advanced study. We offer the following certificate programs:

Middle Level Education
Assistant Principalship
Athletic Administration

Master's Degree: The Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership allows education professionals to expand their knowledge and understanding, to secure additional employment benefits, and to attain leadership positions. These programs are designed for those who are committed to pursuing an advanced program of study and are prepared to assume greater levels of responsibility within their schools or districts. The Educational Leadership program offers three areas of Master's degree study:

Teacher Leadership (Please note we are no longer accepting applications to this program.)
Administration
Special Education Administration

Certificate of Advanced Study
The Certificate of Advanced Study (C.A.S.) in Educational Leadership is designed for practicing educators including teachers, principals, curriculum directors, and superintendents who are interested in pursuing advanced academic work in educational reform and leadership. The C.A.S. is a post-master's program that requires 30 credit hours of graduate coursework including a joint seminar and capstone experience. Students engage in careful reading of research and scholarship, oral and written presentations, and action research.

Program Coordinator:
Thomas Edwards
Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership
(207) 780-5400