Masters Degrees (Educational Leadership)

The MSc in Educational Leadership (with Specialist Qualification for Headship) is a work-based Master’s course designed to enable aspiring school leaders and managers to gain a Master’s degree which contributes to the development of the knowledge, understanding and skills required to allow them to articulate and enact informed strategic vision, values and aims in relation to professional practice.

The MSc in Educational Leadership course has at its heart the Specialist Qualification for Headship (SQH) which is embedded in the Into Headship modules. This element of the programme will be accredited by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS) and so this work-based Master’s course incorporates both a professional and academic award.

The development of the Into Headship modules is the result of an ongoing formal collaboration with the Scottish College for Educational Leadership (SCEL), Local Authorities, the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS), Education Scotland, four other Universities and the highly successful SQH Western Consortium (Universities of Glasgow, Stirling and Strathclyde). Building on the success and impact of previous programmes, including the MSc in Educational Leadership (with Scottish Qualification for Headship), this new programme is designed to take account of current policy and the professional standards framework (GTCS, 2012) to offer participants an opportunity to develop strategic leadership and management competencies.

The programme, which is introduced for the first time in 2015, offers an opportunity for participants to further develop their professional learning and strategic leadership and management practices in a supportive, flexible, creative and challenging learning environment.

Accreditation

The Into Headship modules EDUP021 (Into Headship 1) and EDUP022 (Into Headship 2) will be accredited by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS).

Structure and content

The MSc in Educational Leadership (with Specialist Qualification for Headship) programme will comprise three stages:

Middle Leadership

Into Headship

Extended Induction

Prior to 2018, candidates may undertake EDUP021 Into Headship 1 and EEDUP022 Into Headship 2 as a Postgraduate Certificate. After 2018 these modules will form the Diploma stage of this qualification.

Stage one: Middle Leadership

The aim of this stage is to develop an understanding of the principles underpinning middle leadership for those aspiring to lead and manage the improvement of educational practices which impact on outcomes for children and young people in their setting and/or wider educational community. During stage one students will undertake one of the core modules, either EDUP001 Engaging critically with professional practices (20 credits at SCQF level 11) or EDUP007 Examining Professional Practices: Work-Based Learning (20 credits at SCQF level 11), then complete the Postgraduate Certificate with EDUP003 Middle Leadership: principles and practices (40 credits at SCQF level 11).

Stage Two: Into Headship

The aim of this stage is to foster a future orientated strategic stance to initiate and lead change for improvement through engagement with the school community. This will be achieved through building and applying sound knowledge and understanding of strategic leadership and management theories and practices in the context of the role of the headteacher. The modules will enable participants to develop an understanding of the place of values in leading a school community and explore ways of addressing some of the challenges this poses as well as enhancing the interpersonal and personal skills, confidence and resilience for those preparing to move into headship. This stage will provide an opportunity to develop practice in the use of critical enquiry and reflection to enhance participants’ strategic leadership practices and to evaluate and strengthen the impact of these practices on the school community. This stage is designed to enable participants to develop the strategic leadership and management competences as specified by the by the appropriate professional standards provided by the GTCS in Scotland to facilitate their transition into headship.

Stage Three: Extended Induction

During stage three participants will complete the MSc in Educational Leadership (with Specialist Qualification for Headship) through undertaking the final two modules in the programme EDUP023 Extended Induction 1 (20 credits SCQF level 11) and EDUP024 Extended Induction 2 (40 credits SCQF level 11)

Delivery and assessment

This course is offered on a part-time basis only. The period of study is normally three years for the MSc, although this programme is unlikely to be taken over three consecutive years. Candidates must complete six modules for the MSc degree. The modules will be delivered through a blended learning format designed to facilitate both individual and collaborative work. The format is a mix of face-to-face seminar days, guided self-study, online and work-based learning.

Employability

The MSc in Educational Leadership (with SQH) develops knowledge, understanding and skills to enhance leadership and management practices and support career-long professional development.

http://www.stir.ac.uk/postgraduate/programme-information/prospectus/education/educationalleadershipwithsqh/#apply-proc

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This route focuses on leadership and learning in the context of school improvement and with reference to practice, policy and theory. The concept of leadership is treated as problematic and examined as it applies to pupils, teachers and support staff as well as those with formal leadership responsibilities. The route is underpinned by the values and principles of "Leadership for Learning: the Cambridge Network" these beliefs include a democratic concept of leadership rather than a hierarchical one, and a view of learning as a shared enterprise crossing the traditional divisions between 'teachers' and 'learners'.

The route is aimed at a wide audience including practitioners studying part-time as well as full time students. It is of relevance and interest to teachers, middle leaders, headteachers/principals, advisers and others as well as to graduate students interested in the area of leadership and school improvement. We draw on participants' experiences, and students pursue their particular interest by undertaking an individual empirical research project.

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/ededmpels

Course detail

The overall aims of this specialist route are to enable participants to develop:

- An advanced knowledge and understanding of educational leadership and school improvement
- A set of skills for analysing educational leadership and school improvement issues and practices
- The ability to bring together theoretical perspectives on educational leadership and school improvement and apply an informed critique of their inter-relationship
- The ability to contribute to informed development of policy and practice in educational contexts
- Familiarity with a range of frameworks for understanding pupil, professional and organisational learning

The route content is covered through eight interrelated themes:

1. Leadership for Learning
2. Policy, Structures and Change
3. School Effectiveness and School Improvement
4. Issues and Dilemmas
5. Perspectives on Leadership
6. Perspectives on Learning
7. Schools, Cultures and Communities
8. Education Evaluation

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Educational Leadership and School Improvment route, students are expected to be able to:

- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of literature and concepts relating to educational leadership, school improvement, and learning; 
- show abilities in the critical analysis of educational leadership and school improvement issues and practices; 
- apply knowledge and understanding of educational research to plan and implement enquiry into an issue related to the route; 
- communicate the outcomes of their study and research through extended writing conforming to stipulated academic expectations and conventions.

Format

The course is composed of two key elements: (i) the research methods training course and (ii) the 'Educational Leadership and School Improvement' thematic route. Teaching time is split between both elements, with 32 hours of teaching being provided in research methods and 64 hours in the thematic route. The elements are taught through a mixture of lectures, smaller group seminars and individual supervisions.

Each term, written work is submitted and formative feedback is provided. Informally, feedback will also be provided through regular supervisions (three times a term). At the end of each term, supervisors are required to provide a report on student progress which can be viewed by the student through CGSRS.

Assessment

- Thesis: Up to 20,000 words.
- Essay 1: 6,000-6,500 words.
- Essay 2: 6,000-6,500 words.

Continuing

Students wishing to continue from the MPhil in Education to PhD are required to achieve:

1) an average of 70 across both sections with the thesis counting as double-weighted (eg: (Essay 1 + Essay 2 + thesis + thesis) divided by 4 = 70 or above.

Or
2) a straight mark of 70 or higher for the thesis.

How to apply: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying

Funding Opportunities

The Faculty is pleased to say that, in general, education students are successful in most of the funding competitions, and, in a typical year, will host students who have been awarded funding from all of the major funding bodies.

In addition, a number of Colleges have their own scholarships/bursaries, but these will be restricted to College members. Finally, it is important to note that deadlines for scholarships and bursaries are early, so applicants are strongly encouraged to explore funding opportunities as soon as possible - at least a year in advance of the start of the course.

General Funding Opportunities http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

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This route focuses on leadership and learning in the context of school improvement and with reference to practice, policy and theory. The concept of leadership is treated as problematic and examined as it applies to pupils, teachers and support staff as well as those with formal leadership responsibilities. The route is underpinned by the values and principles of "Leadership for Learning: the Cambridge Network" these beliefs include a democratic concept of leadership rather than a hierarchical one, and a view of learning as a shared enterprise crossing the traditional divisions between 'teachers' and 'learners'.

The route is aimed at a wide audience including practitioners studying part-time as well as full time students. It is of relevance and interest to teachers, middle leaders, headteachers/principals, advisers and others as well as to graduate students interested in the area of leadership and school improvement. We draw on participants' experiences, and students pursue their particular interest by undertaking an individual empirical research project.

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/ededmeels

Course detail

The overall aims of this specialist route are to enable participants to develop:

- An advanced knowledge and understanding of educational leadership and school improvement
- A set of skills for analysing educational leadership and school improvement issues and practices
- The ability to bring together theoretical perspectives on educational leadership and school improvement and apply an informed critique of their inter-relationship
- The ability to contribute to informed development of policy and practice in educational contexts
- Familiarity with a range of frameworks for understanding pupil, professional and organisational learning

The route content is covered through eight interrelated themes:

1. Leadership for Learning
2. Policy, Structures and Change
3. School Effectiveness and School Improvement
4. Issues and Dilemmas
5. Perspectives on Leadership
6. Perspectives on Learning
7. Schools, Cultures and Communities
8. Education Evaluation.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Educational Leadership and School Improvment route, students are expected to be able to:

- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of literature and concepts relating to educational leadership, school improvement, and learning; 
- show abilities in the critical analysis of educational leadership and school improvement issues and practices; 
- apply knowledge and understanding of educational research to plan and implement enquiry into an issue related to the route; 
- communicate the outcomes of their study and research through extended writing conforming to stipulated academic expectations and conventions.

Format

The course is composed of two key elements: (i) the research methods training course and (ii) the 'Educational Leadership and School Improvement' thematic route. Teaching time is split between the two elements, with 32 hours of teaching being given to research methods and 64 hours being given to the subject specific content. The course is taught through a mixture of lectures, smaller group seminars and individual supervisions.

Written feedback is provided on the thesis by two independent assessors. Informally, feedback will also be provided through regular supervisions. Supervisors are required to provide a report on student progress which can be viewed by the student through CGSRS.

Assessment

- Thesis: Up to 20,000 words.
- Essay 1: 6,000-6,500 words.
- Essay 2: 6,000-6,500 words.

Continuing

Students wishing to continue from the MEd in Education to PhD or Ed D are required to achieve:

1) an average of 70 across both sections with the thesis counting as double-weighted (eg: (Essay 1 + Essay 2 + thesis + thesis) divided by 4 = 70 or above.
Or
2) a straight mark of 70 or higher for the thesis.

How to apply: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying

Funding Opportunities

The Faculty is pleased to say that, in general, education students are successful in most of the funding competitions, and, in a typical year, will host students who have been awarded funding from all of the major funding bodies.

In addition, a number of Colleges have their own scholarships/bursaries, but these will be restricted to College members. Finally, it is important to note that deadlines for scholarships and bursaries are early, so applicants are strongly encouraged to explore funding opportunities as soon as possible - at least a year in advance of the start of the course.

General Funding Opportunities http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

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This award is gained through taking an educational leadership focus for 50% of the study, including the Dissertation.

The programme is flexible to enable students to demonstrate an educational leadership focus in any of the 30 credit modules of interest which are studied, although study might include the Leadership and Management module. Students must have an educational leadership focus for the final dissertation. In order to gain this award students need to submit the Educational Leadership evidence log to demonstrate the 50% focus.

This award enables experienced professionals to build upon their interests and experience of educational leadership. Less experienced professionals are supported in developing their knowledge of issues relating to educational leadership.

Why choose this course?

The programme supports you in developing your knowledge and understanding of issues and practice through enquiry and research. The programme provides a range of module choices, but you are encouraged to bring your own ideas and focus on your own particular professional interests.

Through this programme you will:

• Develop and deepen your knowledge and understanding of issues relating to education practice through critical reflection, analysis and enquiry
• Develop your ability to critically analyse educational theory and how it links to practice
• Become a member of a supportive learning community and learn from professionals from a range of educational settings
• Become a successful practitioner researcher

Structure

Year 1

Core Modules:

Educational Leadership Dissertation
Exploring Approaches to Research

Optional:

Creativity: You and Your Practice
Developing Subject and Professional Knowledge
Early Childhood: Foundations for Life
Education, Social Justice and Social Change
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Inclusive Perspectives on Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities
Leadership and Management

Teaching methods

Taught sessions are built around discussion, discovery, shared learning and peer review with tutor support and expertise immediately at hand. All modules are constructed so that the focus of the work should be upon your individual interests and professional requirements.

• For each 30 credit module, attendance at between 7/8 twilight sessions per module
• A significant amount of private study and reading
• Independent research
• An assignment of 4,500 words or equivalent for 30 credit modules
• A final 60 credit module over a year with a 12,000 word assignment
• Full access to the University’s Learning Resource Centre (LRC) and virtual learning environment

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Admission to this program is a competitive process, with candidates (students) admitted in cohorts.

Visit the website http://education.ua.edu/academics/elpts/edle/ma/

Application Process

Visit the UA Graduate School website where you will:

- Complete the online application http://graduate.ua.edu/application.

- Submit official GRE or MAT scores.

- Submit official transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions attended.

- Submit a statement of purpose.

- Submit 3 letters of recommendation (one from your principal or supervisor).

Due Date for Applications

Applications for admission will be due in the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy & Technology Studies by April 1 for entry into a cohort that will begin the program in the subsequent summer. All applications for entry into a cohort that will begin in the spring are due November 1, and all applications for entry into a cohort that will begin the subsequent fall will be due in the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy & Technology Studies by July 1. All applicants for this program must provide a Supplemental EXP completed by their current and/or previous school system(s) verifying at least three full years of full-time, acceptable professional educational experience including at least one full year of full–time P-12 teaching experience. The original notarized form(s) should be sent to:

Dawn Bryant
Student Services & Certification
College of Education
The University of Alabama
Box 870321
Tuscaloosa, Al, 35487-0231

Portfolio

In addition to the general application materials required by the University of Alabama Graduate School and the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy & Technology Studies, applicants must construct an application portfolio, as required by Ala. Admin. Code §290-3-3-.48(1)(b). For entry into a cohort beginning in the Summer Term, the application portfolio is due in the Department by April 1. For entry into a cohort beginning in the Spring Term, the application portfolio is due in the Department by November 1. For entry into a cohort beginning in the Fall Term, the application portfolio is due in the Department by July 1.

The application portfolio must contain the following items:

- Three letters of recommendation, including one from the applicant’s principal or supervisor;

- Completed copy (all forms) of most recent performance appraisal to include the professional development component if available;

- Evidence of ability to improve student achievement;

- Evidence of leadership and management potential including evidence of most recent accomplishments in the area of educational leadership;

- Summary statement of applicant’s reasons for pursuing instructional leadership certification;

- Summary statement of what the applicant expects from the program; and,

- The applicant’s vitae.

Items should be placed in a large envelope in the order of the above list, have divider pages between items, and mailed to Vanessa Williams, The University of Alabama, Box 870302, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487-0302 or hand-delivered to 301 Graves Hall (main campus) or to the UA Gadsden Center.

Assessment Center

The purpose of the Assessment Center is to first fulfill the regulatory requirement of a face-to-face interview with each applicant. The Assessment Center will also include other activities designed to provide additional information, particularly with respect to candidate dispositions and candidate writing skills, to adequately assess candidate aptitude for instructional leadership.

Scheduled Assessment Centers appear below. Candidates electing to participate in an Assessment Center at the Gadsden Center should contact Dr. Brenda Mendiola ([email protected]).

Cohort Numbers

Cohorts will be limited to twenty-five participants at two locations: Tuscaloosa (main campus) and at the UA Gadsden Center. Additional cohorts will be admitted at either location, if there are sufficient eligible candidates and available faculty members.

Program of Study

The program of study for the Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership, leading to initial certification in Alabama for Instructional Leadership, will be composed of thirty (30) semester hours of coursework, including the following courses:

AEL 520: Leadership for Communities and Stakeholders (3 semester hours)
AEL 521: Leadership for Continuous Improvement (3 semester hours)
AEL 522: Leadership for Teaching and Learning (3 semester hours)
AEL 523: Human Resource Development (3 semester hours)
AEL 524: Ethics and Law (3 semester hours)
AEL 525: Management of Learning Organizations (3 semester hours)
AEL 526: Data-Informed Decision-Making (3 semester hours)
AEL 527: Internship in Instructional Leadership (3 semester hours)
BER 540: Quantitative Research; Statistics (3 semester hours)
BEF graduate-level Foundations Course from approved list (3 semester hours)
Total: 30 semester hours for Masters Degree in Educational Leadership

*Note: To receive certification at the “A” level, students are also required to have taken a special education survey course (SPE 300 or SPE 500 or the equivalent). If students have taken a special education survey course as part of the requirements for an earlier certificate, it will not have to be taken again. If students have not taken a special education survey course for an earlier certificate, SPE 500 must be taken in addition to the 30 semester hours detailed above.

Field experience objectives, including progression from observation through participation to leading behaviors, will be embedded in each course and assessed by the faculty member of record for each course. Throughout this program, instructional activities are aligned with instructional objectives. The faculty member of record has the responsibility of assigning the LiveText assessment (1, 2, 3, 4) for each objective, and instructional activities will also generate documentation for the electronic portfolio aspect of LiveText, which will append to the assessment ratings.

Find out how to apply here - http://graduate.ua.edu/prospects/application/

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The Educational Leadership PGCert is for practising educators in any educational sector, particularly those in leadership roles or aspiring leaders. You will develop both 'know how' and 'know why' in relation to educational leadership.

On completing the course you will have a good, critical understanding of:
-Current thinking and key issues of leadership and strategic management of educational institutions
-Relevant leadership theories and their significance for educational leadership

The course will help you to use approaches of practitioner enquiry as a means for professional practice, educational effectiveness and improvement of educational organisations.

At the beginning of the course, you will be asked to complete a formatively assessed written task to tailor the teaching and reading list to your development needs. This personalised approach has been identified by previous students as a particular strength of the course.

Through the educational leadership enquiry task you will acquire a critical understanding of research methodologies, methods and theory of research, and practical experience in approaches to encourage educational effectiveness and improvement.

Course tutors are active scholars, have had or hold leadership roles within the education sector and all teach and supervise across a range of courses. This provides them with a wide knowledge base and a genuine concern for the challenges of educational contexts. The PGCert in Educational Leadership is led by the director of the North Leadership Centre, René Koglbauer.

The course draws on the expertise developed in the North Leadership Centre and the Research Centre for Learning and Teaching which are based in the School of Education, Communication and Language Sciences.

The North Leadership Centre is one of the seven founding partners of NETSP (North East Teaching Schools Partnership), which holds the license for the National Leadership Curriculum by the National College for Teaching and Leadership:
-National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership (NPQML)
-National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL)
-National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH)

Delivery

The course is made up of two modules. The first module is taught in evening sessions (from 4.30pm to 7pm) during the autumn term. The second module is taught in two full days and an evening session during the spring term. In addition, you will have the opportunity to attend tutorials with the module leaders.

Sessions are taught interactively. Weekly tasks are built into the course so that you actively contribute to each session. The learning from the modules extends into practical and reflective engagement with the workplace.

Modules can be combined with other Master's level credits (including the PGCE), to complete a full Master's with a dissertation.

Placements

You are expected to work or volunteer in a professional educational setting. This provides the context for much of your practitioner enquiry.

Facilities

You will be taught in the King George VI Building. You have access to the Education Resource Centre and associated borrowing rights.

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Taught at our Riverside Campus in Chester, our MA in Educational Leadership is designed for leaders or aspiring leaders in all areas of education.

The course develops an individual’s professional knowledge in relation to their current context by building on the significant experience and expertise which students will bring with them to the course.

Why Study Educational Leadership with us?

Our philosophy of learning links to professional practice, theories of leadership and work-based enquiry for improvement. Most importantly, it acknowledges work undertaken in the workplace.

If you engage in the course you will:
- develop your critical thinking skills and become a reflective practitioner
- be able to articulate informed opinions with confidence
- become a confident researcher who will be aware of theoretical frameworks and current political agendas
- become a confident and effective leader.

You can enter the course by making a claim for previous learning through the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) process, for example holders of National College of Teaching and Leadership awards - and then undertake modules for the remainder of your course taking into account your setting and individual needs.

On successful completion of your MA in Educational Leadership you will also gain a Chartered Management Institute (CMI) award in Strategic Leadership.

What will I learn?

You will complete a series of modules which you will be able to select in order to meet your needs and interests. The modules will develop your understanding of leadership and your ability to respond to the variety of leadership situations that you will find yourself in.

Teachers working in a faith-based context may take Leading in Faith Schools and gain a named award: Educational Leadership (Faith Schools).

How will I be taught?

Our course is taught twice termly on Saturdays from 9am until 4pm at Riverside Campus. Each module equates to approximately 200 hours of study. You will study one module per term, and you should factor these hours into your existing work.

You will benefit from experienced tutors with recent relevant experience in a range of education settings.

How will I be assessed?

Assessments include; essays, portfolios of your own learning, academic posters, research-based projects. This course is assessed by 100% coursework only and the structure of the course means that you are only working on one assignment at any one time.

Postgraduate Visit Opportunities

If you are interested in this courses we have a number of opportunities to visit us and our campuses. To find out more about these options and to book a visit, please go to: https://www1.chester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/postgraduate-visit-opportunities

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to know more about the University please request a prospectus at: http://prospectus.chester.ac.uk/form.php

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The MA Educational Leadership and Management is designed for those who are interested in or presently working as middle and senior managers and leaders in schools and other educational organisations in the UK and internationally. It will:

- improve understanding of leadership practices in national and international social, cultural, political and policy contexts
strengthen knowledge of leadership and change management
- utilise existing and emerging international research-informed knowledge of educational leadership
- engage in critical discussion of a range of practices in the leadership and management of other adults in organisations
- enable a deeper critical understanding of the organisation, and the environment in which course members operate
- promote the development of yourself, your colleagues and your organisation

A unique focus is the emphasis upon supporting practice based inquiry through which theories may be applied to practice in the workplace.

The programme is taught by experienced specialist staff with outstanding national and international reputations and teaching is informed by current research.

Course Content

The programme comprises four 30-credit modules, plus a dissertation.

• Leading Practice Based Inquiry
• Understanding Individual and Organisational Development
• Effective Leadership and Change in Education
• Issues in Educational leadership

Please note that all module details are subject to change

Part-time study - the programme can be taken through Summer School only, with additional virtual learning support. Normally two modules will be studied each year.

Full-time study - the programme can be taken full-time over one academic year, with additional seminar support.

Cohort applications
We welcome approaches from educational organisations who may wish to develop a bespoke cohort programme.

Schools/groups of schools may negotiate sequence, timings and locations for two of the modules, which may be provided off site.

Assessment

Unless otherwise stated, each 30-credit module is assessed by a written assignment of 5,000-6,000 words.

The dissertation is an original piece of work and should be of 12,000-15,000 words (or their equivalent) related to one of the selected modules on an approved topic.

Course Structure

The programme is normally a minimum of one year full-time study or two years’ part-time study, during which the participants attend sessions which may be in a range of patterns such as block weeks, weekdays, evenings, weekends or Summer School.

We also offer a Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management.

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The Educational Leadership (International) MBA will meet the needs of senior educational leaders, developing the scholarship and academic skills to support their reflective practice. It will enable them to reflect on the key areas of theory, empirical research and values that underpin educational leadership, and allow them to analyse how policy can impact on educational leadership.

Degree information

This programme provides students the opportunity to develop as a strategic thinker, leader of learning and educational improvement, and manager of resources, exploring important national and international debates in and around educational reform, leadership, and teaching and learning.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of four core modules (120 credits), and a dissertation/report (60 credits). There are no optional modules for this programme.

Core modules
-Financial Management
-Leading People For Effective Learning
-Marketing and Strategy
-System Leadership

Dissertation/report
Students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 20,000 words.

Teaching and learning
This programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, online materials and tutorial support involving module leaders and guest speakers. Assessment is through assignment submission and final dissertation. The programme is delivered through intensive two-day contact periods and tutorial support can be offered in person, via Skype or online.

Careers

Graduates of this Master's degree are currently working as:
-Headteachers.
-Senior education consultants working within national and international contexts.
-Local authority leaders.
-Senior leaders in state and independent sector schools.

Employability
This Master's degree provides the opportunity to:
-Develop as a strategic thinker, leader of learning and educational improvement, and manager of resources.
-Explore important national and international debates in and around educational reform, leadership, and teaching and learning.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The quality, depth and breadth of research and development work carried out by the Department of Learning and Leadership at the UCL Institute of Education (IOE) has an outstanding reputation. The department is at the forefront of promoting new knowledge for and about leadership in London, nationally, and internationally.

The department supports educational and public sector leadership to improve the life chances of individuals and communities, working in partnership with practitioners and policymakers at the critical edge of research and practice.

The Educational Leadership (International) MBA provides a full overview of contemporary education leadership issues. This includes focusing on the role of schools within the wider community and how governmental policy makes its mark.

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In the current climate of structural and political pressure on improving educational performance and opportunities, there is an increased focus upon the quality of leadership within educational institutions.

The MSc Educational Leadership recognises that a high quality educational system depends on leaders from all walks of life and all types of positions, regardless of title. It is intended, therefore, to provide leadership development for people who work in all manner of roles in the educational system: schools at all levels, local authorities, policymakers, and any other organisations invested in providing educational opportunities.

The programme aspires to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and creative capacity to respond to a variety of leadership challenges faced in contemporary educational institutions. It challenges traditional notions of ‘leaders’ and ‘leadership’ pointing to new, more collaborative and more organic, models of leading. It is expected that graduates will be able to inform their professional practice with the latest research evidence in the field to nurture meaningful relationships in educational communities, address issues of equity and diversity, support teaching and learning, and ultimately, ensure quality outcomes which are tailored to contextual needs.

Why Educational Leadership at Queen's?

◦As a prestigious Russell Group University, Queen’s is ranked 8th within the UK in relation to research intensity;
◦Education at Queen’s has been ranked 4th within the UK in relation to research intensity with 87% of the research undertaken within the School assessed as ‘internationally excellent or world leading’ (REF, 2014);
◦We provide a CPD opportunity for teachers and other educational professionals who work, or aspire to work, in a leadership capacity at different levels within their organisations;
◦We seek to develop in students the ability to critique current leadership practices and to enact changes that will improve education for all;
◦The content is delivered in a mixture of face-to-face and online formats (blended learning) creating flexibility for part-time working students, while providing for a range of learning styles.
◦Belfast is a growing cosmopolitan city, offering a good quality of life and one of the lowest costs of living in the UK; this makes it an attractive destination for EU/international applicants who want to undertake full-time study.
◦If you don’t want, or need, to study for the research dissertation, flexible exit awards are available (PG Diploma/ PG Certificate);
◦You may also undertake individual course modules without completing a full degree.


“Rather than offering ‘how-to-do’ type of knowledge or quick-fix solutions to common leadership problems, the course promotes critical and creative thinking among students, bringing to light and questioning many long held assumptions. This is achieved through extended periods of academic study and insightful dialogues with professional peers.” Dr Stefania Giannakaki, Programme Co-ordinator

Programme Structure and Modules

The MSc Educational Leadership is awarded to students who have successfully completed 120 CATS points from taught modules and a Master's dissertation (60 CATS points).

Exit qualifications are available. Students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma by successfully completing 120 CATS points from taught modules or an Postgraduate Certificate by successfully completing 60 CATS points from taught modules.

Short Courses

We've made it easy to study for a Master's module as a short course. If you would like to study for one of the modules in the MSc in Educational Leadership as a short course, please contact the Education Secretary (tel: 028 9097 5923/ 5032, [email protected]) for advice.

Modules (all 20 CATS points)

◦Leadership Theory and Practice: an overview (compulsory)
◦Leadership for Change (compulsory)
◦School Effectiveness and School Improvement (compulsory)
◦An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education (compulsory)

Assessment

There are no written examinations. Modules are assessed through written assignments.

Career Opportunities

Graduates have found this degree beneficial for developing leadership practice in their workplace. Others have found it beneficial in gaining employment or promotion. Some progress to Doctoral-level studies and research.

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The Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership and Management is a 12-month, 18-credit, six course program designed to build the knowledge and practical skills of professionals working in the private and public education sectors. It meets the growing demand for professionals who are faced with leadership demands and who wish to expand their skills, strategies and expertise in the area of educational communication, research, administration and management.

This diploma will ladder directly into the MA in Educational Leadership and Management program, providing students with an opportunity to extend their learning or leave the program with a recognized diploma and return at a later date to complete their MA.

Who It’s For

Administrators, principals and teachers within K-12 educational institutions who want to expand their expertise and gain new skills and credentials in the field of educational leadership to advance their current career or launch a new one.

Applicants who do not have the formal academic education to qualify for admission may be assessed on the basis of both their formal education and their informal learning, in accordance with the Flexible Admission Policy. Please visit the program admission page for more information.

Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply practical tools and strategies to address issues, challenges, and opportunities related to supporting student achievement and growth.

Graduates will have the skills to:
-Facilitate the collaborative development and implementation of shared values, vision, mission, and goals to support learning and achievement for all students
-Understand and use change and improvement processes to support student learning and achievement
-Build positive and effective relationships among the school, families and the larger community
-Integrate evidence-based decision making approaches into school leadership practices to support school growth and improvement
-Engage in meaningful self-assessment and self-awareness to enhance leadership skills, positive relationships, and professional goals
-Maximize opportunities for curricular, instructional, and assessment practices to have a positive impact on student learning and achievement
-Apply systems thinking to strategically plan and manage the school environment to support student learning
-Foster and sustain an inclusive culture and climate to support both student learning and professional growth
-Implement authentic and meaningful strategies for supporting and supervising teachers’ instructional capacities to maximize student learning and achievement
-Lead collaborative and systematic inquiry processes that support school improvement

Delivery Model

Pre-Residency
Students begin the Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership and Management program with a very short online pre-residency session that introduces them to the instructor, familiarizes them with the course content and materials, and connects them with other students in the program. This blended learning format allows students to benefit from the synergy of on-campus learning and direct interaction with leading faculty members, while still meeting the demands of career and lifestyle. The result is accessible, high quality learning with minimal professional disruption.

Residency
The 10-day residency is a carefully designed period of intense academic study. The schedule of instruction and studying during the residency is structured to optimize the face-to-face access to instructors, develop networks with fellow students, and access the support services of the university if required. The typical daily schedule is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Team meetings, homework, and readings are done outside of these hours.

Online Learning
Distance courses are delivered entirely online through innovative, easy to use Internet technologies. Participants draw upon web resources as well as more traditional print media, while using online discussion groups and drop boxes to work towards the electronic submission of assignments. Prior to the beginning of each course, students are provided with a list of resources including textbooks and/or online readings, plus a detailed course schedule. Learning activities and assignments are designed to allow participants to identify the practical applications of the course content and to work with others to construct both a personal and shared meaning from their experiences.

Each course requires a level of effort of approximately 10 hours per week. This varies from student to student and becomes easier as students familiarize themselves with Royal Roads University's distance learning technologies, and learn how to work effectively with team members in a virtual setting.

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The MSc in Educational Leadership offers a fascinating insight into an arena that has changed remarkably over recent years. Leading and promoting optimal learning is the key challenge that confronts educational leaders, advisers, policy makers and governments.

Course Outline

Finding the connections between leadership and learning is not easy and involves change and reform in organisations. These three key themes - leadership, learning and change - are the basis of this course.

This postgraduate degree will enable you to reflect upon practice in your organisation, identify areas of professional concern and become equipped to find solutions and lead change. The course is designed to be relevant to a wide range of practitioners in diverse settings internationally who consider themselves involved in education.

We recognise the importance of connecting theory with practice. Throughout the course you will be supported in developing a flexible set of professional inquiry skills to inform practice in your work setting. Your personal development will equip you to lead change in your organisation.

Former students have also found gaining this respected MSc useful in gaining promotions and developing career pathways.

Programme Structure

For the MSc all students are required to complete three 30 credit subject modules, a 30 credit research methods module in two parts over two years, and a 60 credit dissertation. Students must meet assignment deadlines and are expected to complete the course in two years.

Modules

- Educational Leadership and Change
- External Influences on Educational Leadership
- Organisational Effectiveness, Improvement and Transformation
- Research Methods
- Dissertation

Assessment

You will be assessed for each module by written assignments, there are no examinations for this programme. The assignments for 30 credit modules will total between 5,000-6,000 words per module. The dissertation requires one report of between 15,000-20,000 words.

The assignments should take around 225 hours of study and the dissertation should take around 450 hours.

You can expect to work 14 hours per week. There is some scope in the programme to block some of this workload into school holidays, reducing the demands during term time.

(Please note: due to regular enhancement of the University’s courses, please refer to Leicester’s own website (http://www.le.ac.uk) or/and Terms and Conditions (http://www2.le.ac.uk/legal) for the most accurate and up-to-date course information. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with this information prior to submitting an application.)

Start Dates

February, June and October

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Why take this course?

If you want to develop your leadership and management knowledge and skills in educational settings and organisations, you will find that this course provides you with that opportunity. The programme aims to support reflection and empowerment for the professional working in the field of education.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Use your current educational setting and workplace context, to ensure that your learning is meaningful and professionally relevant
Choose your method of study: full time; part-time (one evening a week over two years); or through flexible distance learning methods.
Stay connected to your lecturers through our online virtual learning environment

What opportunities might it lead to?

The course is intended for teachers, educational trainers, lecturers and instructors in a variety of educational settings and organisations (state, private, public, commercial or voluntary sectors of education who aspire to senior leadership and management positions. Many graduates of the course attain senior management positions in educational organisations.

STRUCTURE & TEACHING

All students must successfully complete a total of 7 assignments and submit a 12,000 - 15, 000 word Dissertation in order to attain the necessary 180 credits for the award of a Master of Science Degree. Students who have successfully submitted 4 assignments and attained 60 credits at MSc level may exit with a Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management, or with a Diploma, providing they have successfully submitted a total of 7 assignments and attained 120 credits.

Curriculum

Education Policy, Strategy and Change (Campus-based only)
Leadership, Policy and Strategy (Distance learning only)
Management of People and Marketing in Public Organisations
Management of Resources, Finance and Information Systems
Research Methods in Education
Dissertation

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching methods include seminars, group work, lectures and student presentations. Students are encouraged to produce work related assignments, although this is not prescriptive if a student encounters difficulty in the work place or is a full time student.

All students are allocated a Personal Tutor who will be pleased to discuss particular issues or specific questions, and who will help each student plan an appropriate course of study and research, discuss progress of work and advise how to construct the dissertation in terms of aims, scope and presentation.

The Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and the accompanying course handbook provides a general guide to the most frequent questions relating to the programme and you will be advised about how to study online and the assessment details for each unit, the marking criteria and the academic referencing conventions. At the start of each unit you will be able to access information about the unit including details of the learning outcomes, syllabus, assessment requirements and recommended reading lists.

You will also have the opportunity to meet and interact with your fellow students online through an online discussion forum and other digital media.

How are you assessed?

You will be guided through the assessment process for each unit by your tutors and there will be extensive online supporting materials. Assessments will include online tests and quizzes, reflective commentaries, case study work, article critiques, online discussions, research proposal and a dissertation. Many of the assessments will relate to analyses of your current (and possibly future) workplace contexts.

Exit levels

Students who exit with 60 credits at Msc Level will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management, and those who exit with 120 credits will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership and Management.

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Course overview

The MA Educational Leadership and Management (by distance learning) is designed for those who are interested in or presently working as middle and senior managers and leaders in schools and other educational organisations in the UK and internationally. It will:

- improve understanding of leadership practices in national and international social, cultural, political and policy contexts
strengthen knowledge of leadership and change management
- utilise existing and emerging international research-informed knowledge of educational leadership
- engage in critical discussion of a range of practices in the leadership and management of other adults in organisations
- enable a deeper critical understanding of the organisation, and the environment in which course members operate
- promote the development of yourself, your colleagues and your organisation

A unique focus is the emphasis upon supporting practice based inquiry through which theories may be applied to practice in the workplace.

The programme is informed by current research and taught by experienced specialist staff with outstanding national and international teaching, research and publications reputations.

Course content

The course can be completed over two years part-time. It is taken through online learning via the university virtual learning environment. Normally this would involve studying two modules per year for two years, and will conclude with a dissertation.

You can start this course in January or July each year.

The MA comprises four 30-credit modules and a 60-credit dissertation.

- Understanding Individual and Organisational Development
- Effective Leadership and Change in Education
- Issues in Educational Leadership
- Leading Practice Based Inquiry

Each of the modules has an equivalent of 30 hours contact time. In addition, there will be 270 hours private study, assignment preparation and tutorial support. The module assignments have been designed to increase skills and criticality (incrementally).

Our online materials provide an interactive learning experience, and allow you to make decisions about which aspects of a module to work on when, at what pace (modules must be taken in the order stated above). You will be encouraged to interact with other course participants, and the module units will involve group activities such as using blogs, wikis, and discussion boards.

Unless otherwise stated, each 30-credit module is assessed by a written assignment of 5,000-6,000 words. To complete the Masters programme successfully, a pass of 50 must be achieved on each assignment.

The dissertation is an original piece of work and should be of 12,000-15,000 words (or their equivalent) related to one of the selected modules on an approved topic.

There are also Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma exit points.



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Overview

Macquarie’s educational leadership program is designed to develop those who aspire to lead, or who have leadership roles. You are able to specialise in either primary or secondary schools, or early childhood settings.

We begin by closely examining the nature of educational systems and organisations and the factors which shape the learning and teaching that occurs within them. Upon this foundation you will develop specialist skills and knowledge, based on the most up-to-date international research, theory, principles and practices of educational leadership. A capstone unit gives you the opportunity to integrate the knowledge and skills gained across all your subjects, and a research unit teaches you how apply this in a rigorous and scholarly way to solve a substantive educational issue of your choice.

The knowledge management, critical thinking, and communicative capabilities you acquire through this degree will enhance not only your own learning but also the capacities of the educational institutions in which you work through your focus on developing evidence-based, theoretically-sound insights into professional practice.

Please note that this is not a teaching qualification.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-educational-leadership

Key benefits

- Build your career in school or early childhood education leadership
Specifically targeted to the needs of those who aspire to lead, or who have leadership roles, in primary or secondary schools, or early childhood settings.

- We recognise your knowledge and skills
Under Macquarie’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy you can apply for up to four units of credit based on previous postgraduate studies, professional development and training, and work experience. This could mean a reduction of up to one third in the cost of, and time taken to complete, your degree.

- Our program is flexible and can easily be tailored to meet your needs
You can complete your degree on-line or on-campus, study at your own rate, and structure your program to meet your personal goals. Your decisions are not set in stone, should your needs change there is scope for you to change modes of study, programs, and even degrees.

- Top staff, cutting edge knowledge
Our academic staff are active researchers in their respective fields and they will guide you to the most up-to-date international research, theories, principles, and practices in education.

- Not just an academic exercise
We provide you with opportunities to work collegially with like-minded peers to explore innovative solutions to challenges that impact on learning in your workplace.

- A step up
Students who begin their specialist studies with us in one of the Graduate Certificates can step up to the Master of Education with full credit for the units they’ve completed.

Suitable for

The Master of Educational Leadership caters to those who aspire to lead, or who have leadership roles, in primary or secondary schools, or early childhood settings.

Please note that this is NOT A TEACHING QUALIFICATION.
If you don't have an Australian level 7 bachelor's qualification or recognised equivalent in education you will need to complete a supplemental application form and find two workplace referees willing to comment on your employment history and on the knowledge and skills you have developed there.

English language requirements

IELTS of 7.0 overall (with minimum 6.0 in Reading, 6.5 in Writing, 6.0 in Listening, 6.0 in Speaking) or equivalent

All applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.
For more information see English Language Requirements. http://mq.edu.au/study/international/how_to_apply/english_language_requirements/

You may satisfy the English language requirements if you have completed:
- senior secondary studies equivalent to the NSW HSC
- one year of Australian or comparable tertiary study in a country of qualification

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-educational-leadership

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