Are you ready to make a difference as an educational leader? You can qualify for Colorado K-12 principal licensure at the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education in 12 months through the Ritchie Executive Leadership for Successful Schools (ELSS) program, or continue for an additional three quarters to earn a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. This personalized, accessible and affordable graduate program is designed for those working in K-12 schools/districts. 

Elevating Emerging School Leaders  

The ELSS graduate program offers you a top-ranked, transformative educational experience. With an equity-driven curriculum and project-based learning, you'll think differently about the challenges facing education today. You'll learn what it takes to effectively lead in education, from understanding systems and roles to developing solutions. You'll be equipped to make a positive impact on schools, districts and communities. 

Start Dates: Summer 

Curriculum: 45 Credit Hours (Year 1 - 30 credits principal graduate certificate; Year 2 - 15 credits) 

Program Length: 10 Months (After the completion of ELPS Certificate) 

 

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10 Months to complete MA after attaining ELPS Principal License Certificate

100% Percentage of admitted students who receive some form of tuition assistance from the Morgridge College of Education

Masters of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

How our curriculum prepares you for your career in educational leadership

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    Lead while you learn 

    Enact immediate change within your current role while also laying the groundwork for your future endeavors through meaningful coursework and a school-based internship. 

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    Complete in less than a year after attaining your Graduate Certificate 

    With 15 additional credit hours after attaining your ELPS Principal Licensure graduate certificate, you can complete a Master of Arts degree.  

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    Project-based learning aligned with your school calendar 

    This personalized, accessible and affordable graduate program is designed for those working in K-12 schools/districts. 

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    Mentorship from faculty 

    Work with program faculty who serve as leader mentors throughout the program 

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    Think differently about the challenges facing education today 

    Learn what it takes to effectively lead in education, from systems and roles to solutions within schools, districts and communities. 

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Application Information

Scholarships and Financial Aid:  

  • 100% of admitted students receive some form of tuition assistance from the Morgridge College of Education.
  • Morgridge College of Education tuition assistance may be in the form of Dean Scholarship and/or a GRA/GTA/GSA tuition waiver.  
  • Eligible students may also qualify for federal and/or state financial aid through FAFSA.
  • Please contact MCE.finaid@du.edu for more information.  

 

Admission Requirements 

Applicants must have:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution 
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or a graduate GPA of 3.0 
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Advance your career with an MA in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

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Courses for the Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Coursework for the ELPS Principal Licensure Certificate

Required Courses - 30 Credit Hours

  • 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 

Learn more about the Certificate Program

Year 2 Master's Degree Coursework

15 Credit Hours 

Foundation Requirements  

  • RMS 4900 - Education Research and Measurement 
  • ADMN 4834 - Culturally Responsive School Leadership 

Program Requirements 

  • ADMN 4848 - Liberatory Design for School Improvement 
  • ADMN 4849 - Action Research for School Leaders 
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Career Opportunities for MA Graduates in ELPS

  • Principal
  • Assistant Principal
  • District Leaders
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Advance your career with an MA in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Build your career in educational leadership with a Master of Arts from the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education

Apply Now