Join a network of over 1,000 district-level leaders who have earned their school district and school building leadership certification online from SUNY Oswego. This network provides strong mentoring and a broad understanding of leadership practices. Our coursework is based on authentic learning experiences in real schools, working with experienced administrators solving real issues.
Quick Facts
Rolling Admission Apply Anytime
You Can Start Fall, Spring or Summer
Delivery Option(s) Online and Regional Sites
In-State Cost $471 Per Credit
Credit Hours 33
Estimated Completion Time 2 Years
Overview
Our nationally accredited educational leadership program offers authentic learning experiences as you collaboratively lead systems for positive change in schools for today and tomorrow. Graduates of this program are eligible for both School Building Leader and School District Leader New York State certifications. Candidates work with 20 to 35 practicing education administrators in their local geographic region.
Curriculum
Certificate of Advanced Study
Depth & Experience
Our candidates are well prepared and consistently score above the state average on the required New York State School Building Leader assessments and School District assessments.
Outcomes
As a graduate of this program, you are eligible for School Building Leader and School District Level New York State certification. Our program graduates commonly find jobs within one year of graduation as a result of our intensive intern process and the hands-on, problem-solving experience in partnering schools.
Career Opportunities
- Assistant Superintendent
- Athletic Director
- Curriculum Director
- School Principal
- School Building Leader
- School District Superintendent
- Special Education Director
- Staff Development Specialist
- Technology Coordinator
Tomorrow's leaders must connect with all stakeholders, who embrace change as opposed to avoiding it, and who do not fear letting others lead with them to transform schools that effectively prepare students for the world ahead of them.
Program Resources
Information Sessions
Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!
RELATED PROGRAM
School District Leadership
The advanced certificate in School District Leadership is a pathway for former teachers and other eligible school personnel to elevate their careers as visionary school leaders.
AAQEP Accredited
This program has earned national accreditation by demonstrating excellence in the areas of content and pedagogy, clinical experiences, selectivity, program impact, and capacity for continuous improvement.
Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program
Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.
More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered
Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.
$500,000
in total awards given every year to our graduate students
The Power of SUNY Tuition
Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.
Application Requirements
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better is required for applicants. (Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 are welcome to apply, but should explain in the purpose statement what skills and experiences you will bring to the program or any special circumstances that affected your GPA.) If you have questions regarding your GPA, please speak to the department advisor for further information.
Your official transcript must indicate that you have earned your master’s degree from an accredited university.
Individuals will satisfy the Professional NYSED Certification requirement after successfully completing a graduate teaching education program from an accredited institution, and obtaining a master’s or higher degree program in their specialization or related field or in any area as long as the individual has completed 12 hours of study in their specialization. New York State requires this entry-level certificate for classroom teachers with specific areas of interest. Submit a copy of your NYS initial teaching certificate in area of interest during the application process.
In 500 words or less, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. This statement will help the review team better understand and evaluate your application.
Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.
Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities. (At least one of these recommendations must be from your school district.)
Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.
Important: All international transcripts must be verified through a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation as part of your application.
English Language Proficiency: Submit official TOEFL (79 overall, MBA 83) or IELTS (6.5) scores, unless exempt.
Visa and I-20 Documentation: After acceptance, upload your financial documents and passport copy to receive your Form I-20 for your visa application.
For more details, please visit Application Requirements for International Graduate Students.