University of Denver - Morgridge College of Education Ritchie Educational Leader for Successful Schools: Principal Licensure Certificate Program
Make a Difference as an Educational Leader
Are you ready to make a lasting impact as an educational leader? The Ritchie Executive Leadership for Successful Schools (ELSS) program at the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education offers a pathway to Colorado K-12 principal licensure in just 12 months. This highly ranked graduate program delivers a transformative experience, blending an equity-focused curriculum with project-based learning to prepare you for today’s educational challenges.
A Program Designed for Aspiring K-12 Leaders
Designed for K-12 educators aspiring to leadership roles, this accessible program provides a personalized approach to help you advance your career. The hybrid learning modality is easily accessible by working professionals, with weekend in person workshops, and online tools, students can complete the program while enhancing their current roles in education.
Earn a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership
If you don’t already hold a master’s degree in an educational field, you can extend your studies for three additional quarters to earn a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.
Why Choose the ELPS Ritchie Program for your Principal’s Licensure Certificate?
Accelerated Pathway to Leadership: Achieve Colorado K-12 principal licensure in just 12 months through a program specifically designed for aspiring educational leaders.
Equity-Focused and Hands-On Learning: Gain the skills to address real-world challenges through a transformative curriculum combining equity-driven principles with project-based learning.
Flexible and Personalized for Professionals: Benefit from a hybrid learning model with in-person workshops and online tools, enabling you to advance your career while maintaining your current role in education.
Take the next step in your career and become a leader equipped to create systemic change. Explore how the Ritchie Principal Licensure Certificate in Educational Leadership at Morgridge College of Education can help you achieve your goals.
Start Date: Summer quarter
Curriculum: 30 Credit Hours
Program Length: 12 Months
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80% Percentage of ELPS certificate graduates who attain an educational leadership position upon graduation
100% Percentage of admitted students who receive some form of tuition assistance from the Morgridge College of Education
Certificate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
How our curriculum prepares you for your career in educational leadership
Lead while you learn
The Ritchie ELSS program empowers you to enact immediate change within your current role while also laying the groundwork for your future endeavors. Engage in meaningful coursework and a school-based internship, equipping yourself with the essential skills to create tangible impacts in your field.
Coursework designed around the academic calendar
This personalized, accessible and affordable graduate program is designed for those working in K-12 schools/districts. Engage in project-based learning seamlessly aligned with your school or district calendar, ensuring a practical and relevant educational experience.
Mentorship from faculty
Work with program faculty who serve as leader mentors throughout the program.
Take educational theory into practice
Foster collaboration with your peers and help build a community of lifelong connections.
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Advance your career with a Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
The program consists of four quarters of coursework and requires at least 300 internship hours aligned with coursework.
- ADMN 4840 - Strategic and Transformative School Leadership
- ADMN 4841 - Instructional Leadership for Equitable Schools
- ADMN 4842 - Human Resource Leadership
- ADMN 4843 - Strategic Resource Management for School Leadership
- ADMN 4860 - Principal Internship
- ADMN 4860 - Principal Internship
- ADMN 4860 - Principal Internship
Get Started on Your Graduate Certificate
Build your career and gain principal licensure with a Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education