Simmons College of Arts & Sciences Graduate Studies

» Educational Leadership

The Educational Leadership program prepares women and men for the challenging — and very rewarding — vocation of school administrator. Students may pursue a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) or a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (C.A.G.S.), with preparation for Massachusetts state licensure as a supervisor/director, assistant principal, or principal in an elementary, middle, or secondary school. The program attracts an intelligent, enthusiastic group of professionals who represent a broad range of experience — from teachers early in their careers, to experienced educators. All share a powerful commitment to education.

The Educational Leadership program features an integrated, practical curriculum with an emphasis on applied theory. Coursework is designed to develop instructional and administrative leadership skills, with seminars and hands-on projects that address topics such as decision-making and problem solving, community collaboration, conflict management and negotiation, school safety, budget planning, and teacher evaluation and supervision. Through stimulating classes and close work with faculty, students develop skills for effective communication, supervision, and management, and overall educational leadership. In addition, each student participates in a carefully designed, school-based, administrative practicum or internship that addresses her or his professional goals.

A number of factors distinguish the Simmons Educational Leadership program. The program’s vision and goals are based on the recommendations and best practices of some of the state’s most highly accomplished educational leaders, including several principals, superintendents, curriculum leaders and consultants. All of our outstanding faculty members have experience in both classroom teaching and administration.

Our students have backgrounds in elementary, middle, and secondary education, as well as special needs. They represent urban and suburban public, private, charter, and independent schools. Some are new to their teaching careers; others bring more than 20 years of experience. Some have been recruited for leadership positions, while others hope to start their own schools. All possess a vision and goals for becoming inspiring, educational leaders.

The Cohort Model

This program offers students the opportunity to reflect on their classrooms and methodologies within a unique cohort structure. Each cohort includes between 15 and 18 students who work with Simmons faculty to build the kind of fair and effective classroom community at Simmons that they wish to create in their own schools. This model provides a safe environment to discuss challenges, get inspiration and support, and share best practice strategies. It allows students to benefit from the experience and support of a richly diverse community of colleagues. Students say the cohort is one of their most valuable resources — it becomes a strong, collegial network that continues to offer personal and professional support beyond graduation.

Degree Options

Participants in the Educational Leadership program complete a 36-credit course of study as a cohort, leading to an M.S.Ed., with preparation for licensing as a supervisor/director, assistant principal, or principal at the elementary, middle, or secondary school level. Those who already have a master’s degree may receive an additional master’s degree or a C.A.G.S. Most students start the program in July and finish in 21 months. The course schedule accommodates full-time professionals, with classes during the summer, on weekdays in late afternoon/evening during the school year, and on weekends.

M.S.Ed. candidates must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, eligibility for Massachusetts state teacher licensure, and successful teaching experience at a public, independent, charter, or parochial school. C.A.G.S. candidates must have a master's degree in addition to the above requirements.

Curriculum and Courses

Sample Courses

• Leadership Development
• The Law and Education Policy
• Classroom Supervision in Theory and Practice
• Principal as Manager

Download the Program Fact Sheet for more information on the curriculum.

See our "Courses" section to view course descriptions.

Download

• Educational Leadership Fact Sheet

Simmons Success

DaQuall Graham ’00, MAT; ’03, C.A.G.S. Educational Leadership
Graham works as an academy leader at the New Boston Pilot Middle School in Dorchester.
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