Educational Leadership & Administration Programs
Educational Leadership & Administration
Educational Leadership & Administration
Lead with Equity, Enhance Learning, Cultivate Excellence, and Inspire Change
Further your leadership abilities in PreK-12 education with the holistic understanding of curriculum design, motivation, support and innovation in instruction gained through our Educational Leadership and Administration (ELA) programs at the George Washington University (GW). Focus on the needs of diverse educational communities and build the practical skills and knowledge necessary to improve student learning on the local, state or national level.
For more than 30 years, GW’s graduate programs in Educational Leadership and Administration have fostered exceptional leadership skills in students. Our programs prepare PreK-12 leaders committed to advocate for and facilitate change in education and transform the multifaceted landscape of learning environments. Hands-on experience and coursework will build capacities of leaders who are dedicated to inclusion and support, data-driven decision making, and the success of every student and their community.
Accessible
Each program is designed for working PreK-12 professionals and can be completed in our off-campus classrooms or online.
Diverse Perspectives
Join and learn from a diverse student body and expert faculty that come together from around the globe, bringing a wide range of professional experience, skills, and enriching knowledge.
Experience + Specialized Skills
Enhance your leadership skills through theory, practice, research, and internship opportunities to help make you more competitive in the job market.
Hear from current students and recent alumni to learn more about GW's
Educational Leadership and Administration programs
Explore and Choose the ELA Program that Matches Your Career Goals
Master's Degree *
This advanced and accelerated 30-credit hour program prepares school faculty and current administrators to become equity-centered leaders within a school or school district, in positions such as assistant principal, curriculum specialist, instructional supervisor, or a variety of other roles with leadership responsibilities. It combines hands-on experience and comprehensive coursework to equip students to address current educational challenges and develop vital skills in management, instruction supervision, and related principles.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least one year of teaching experience.
Post-Master's Certificate *
This advanced and accelerated 18-credit hour program is designed for working professionals and can be completed in just one year. It equips students to become an equity-centered leader in PreK-12 education, in roles such as school/central office administration, supervisory positions, or increased professional responsibilities.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree in education and have at least one year of teaching experience. Upon successful completion, if all requirements are met, you may have the opportunity to transfer the certificate credit hours toward the ELA Education Specialist degree.
Education Specialist *
Designed for working PreK-12 professionals, this advanced and accelerated 30-credit hour terminal degree can be completed part-time in as little as 2 years. Students gain the skills and real-world experience to meet the needs of diverse learning communities as an equity-centered leader. Graduates of this program are positioned to attain a variety of building and district leadership roles.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree and have at least one year of teaching experience.
Doctorate (EdD)
This rigorous 48-credit hour program prepares scholar-leaders to become catalysts for change in diverse educational settings by using evidence-based approaches that bridge research and practice. Course curriculum combines research methods, data analysis, hands-on experience, and critical problem-solving to address current PreK-12 challenges and enhance student learning and achievement. Graduates of this cohort-based program assume leadership roles at local, state, and federal levels, where they advocate for and drive essential educational transformations.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree.
*Our advanced graduate programs are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and recognized by the National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA). The ELA master's, post-master's certificate, and education specialist programs include courses and internship experiences designed to meet the academic requirements and eligibility for administrative certification/licensure in the District of Columbia. Learn more about advanced certification and licensure in DC and other states >
Cohorts Offered for Area Public Schools
Charles County Public Schools Cohort >
Convenient and flexible classes offered in a hybrid model for the master's degree and post-master’s certificate to aspiring and current Charles County administrators. Hybrid classes are a combination of online study and on-site study at a CCPS school.
DC Public Schools Cohort >
Convenient and flexible classes offered in a hybrid model for the master's and education specialist degrees to aspiring and current DCPS administrators.
Loudoun County Public Schools Cohort >
Convenient and flexible classes offered for the post-master’s certificate, master's and education specialist degrees to LCPS aspiring and current administrators. Classes are predominantly held on-site at an LCPS building, but could include online study as LCPS site availability may present.
Connect with Admissions
Unsure which program is best to meet your career aspirations? Interested in learning more about degree requirements, tuition, or the admissions process? Complete the Request Info form below or schedule a meeting to connect with an Admissions Coach.
- Request Info
- Meet with an Admissions Coach
The Admissions Coach can answer program-specific questions, help you decide which program best fits your goals, support you through the admissions process, and guide you in exploring funding opportunities.
Schedule a virtual consultation with an Admissions Coach
Contact teachinfo@gwu.edu for more information.
- Apply to GSEHD
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
Educational Leadership and Administration Faculty
The ELA faculty possess extensive professional and practitioner experience at the local, state, national and international levels, are research productive and are passionate in their preparation of students for leadership roles in PreK-12 education.
