M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.S.Ed. in Educational Administration
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S.Ed. in Educational Administration at Missouri State University is typically a 30 to 36-credit-hour program. It is structured to align with the Missouri Model Leader Standards and Indicators, as well as the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL), ensuring graduates meet state certification requirements. The program often follows a cohort structure, which fosters a collaborative learning environment among aspiring administrators. It is commonly offered in a flexible format, including online courses, to accommodate working professionals, with on-ground internship requirements to provide practical experience. An accelerated master's option may also be available for qualified undergraduates.
Curriculum: The curriculum is comprehensive, covering the essential knowledge and skills required for effective school administration. Core courses typically include topics such as Visionary Leadership in K12 School Administration, Instructional Leadership, Managerial Leadership, Relational Leadership, Innovative Practices in K12 School Administration, School Supervision, Assessment of Student Learning, Law, Ethics, and Policy in K12 School Administration, and Curriculum Construction. A significant component of the program involves field experiences, including practicum and internship hours, which provide hands-on application of theoretical knowledge in real school settings. Students also typically complete a capstone experience or a comprehensive examination.
Research Focus: The M.S.Ed. in Educational Administration program at Missouri State University incorporates an applied research focus. While it's a professional degree aimed at practical leadership, the curriculum emphasizes data-driven decision-making and evidence-based practices. Courses often integrate concepts of assessment, program evaluation, and data analysis to inform instructional improvement and strategic planning. The program prepares aspiring administrators to consume and apply educational research, enabling them to evaluate the effectiveness of school programs and implement research-backed strategies to enhance student learning and school operations.
Industry Engagement: The program demonstrates strong industry engagement by directly aligning its curriculum with state certification requirements for educational administrators in Missouri. The inclusion of extensive field experiences, such as required practicum and internship hours, ensures that students gain real-world administrative experience under the guidance of experienced school leaders. This practical exposure is crucial for developing the skills needed to manage staff, budgets, curriculum, and community relations. The faculty often comprises experienced educators and administrators who bring current industry challenges and best practices into the classroom, preparing graduates to step directly into leadership roles within K-12 schools.
Global Perspective: The M.S.Ed. in Educational Administration at Missouri State University integrates a global perspective by emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational leadership. While not focusing on international school systems specifically, the curriculum often includes coursework or discussions on multicultural education, preparing future administrators to lead diverse student populations and create inclusive school environments. The broader mission of the College of Education often includes developing "reflective educators for a global society," which filters down into programs like Educational Administration. This approach ensures that graduates are equipped to lead schools that acknowledge and serve the needs of students from various cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds, fostering a mindset applicable in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
Graduates of Missouri State University's (MSU) Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Educational Administration program are highly prepared to step into leadership roles within the K-12 educational system. The program's strong alignment with Missouri's state certification standards and its emphasis on practical, hands-on experience through required internships ensure that alumni are equipped with the skills necessary to lead effectively.
Elementary School Principal: Oversees all aspects of an elementary school's operation, including curriculum, staff management, student discipline, parent communication, and budget, with a focus on early childhood development and learning.
Middle School Principal: Leads middle school staff and students, navigating the unique academic and social-emotional needs of adolescents, implementing curriculum, and fostering a supportive learning environment during transitional years.
High School Principal: Manages the overall functions of a high school, including academic programs, extracurricular activities, staff supervision, student guidance (especially for college and career readiness), and community relations.
Assistant Principal (Elementary, Middle, or High School): Supports the principal in daily administrative tasks, handles student discipline, oversees specific programs, manages schedules, and provides instructional leadership, often serving as a stepping stone to a principalship.
Curriculum Coordinator/Instructional Coordinator: Works at the school or district level to develop, implement, and evaluate educational curricula. They often train teachers on new methods, analyze student performance data, and ensure alignment with state and national standards.
Athletic Director: Oversees all athletic programs within a school or district, including managing coaches, scheduling games, ensuring compliance with regulations, budgeting for sports, and promoting student-athlete development.
Special Education Administrator: Specializes in leading and managing special education programs within a school or district, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws (e.g., IDEA), overseeing individualized education programs (IEPs), and supporting students with diverse learning needs.
District-Level Administrator (e.g., Director of Assessment, Director of Student Services): Graduates can advance to various administrative roles at the central office level within a school district, focusing on areas like student assessment, professional development for teachers, student support services, or transportation.
Educational Consultant: Experienced administrators can transition into consulting, advising individual schools, districts, or educational organizations on improving leadership, curriculum development, strategic planning, or school improvement initiatives.
Higher Education Administrator (e.g., Director of Admissions, Student Affairs Coordinator): While the program primarily focuses on K-12, the leadership and administrative skills gained can be transferable to roles in higher education, such as managing student admissions, student life programs, or academic support services.
