M.A. in Instructional Leadership

The M.A. in Instructional Leadership is a 30-33 credit hour program that typically spans two years. It utilizes a hybrid model, with in-person summer classes held at the Schaumburg campus and online courses during the fall and spring semesters, offering flexibility for working teachers. Upon completion, candidates are eligible to add either the principal or teacher leader endorsement to their Illinois teaching licenses. The program emphasizes job-embedded coursework taught by practicing school and district leaders, ensuring practical relevance and alignment with state regulations and the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) Standards.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in educational leadership. Core courses (18 credit hours) include "Assessment and Data Analysis," "Leadership for All Students," "Building School Culture and Collaboration with Diverse Stakeholders," "Instructional Supervision and Evaluation in an Age of Accountability," "Mentor Coach & Lead Frameworks," and "Organizing and Developing Innovative Curriculum." After the first year, students select one of two concentrations: Principal Endorsement or Teacher Leader. The Principal Endorsement concentration includes additional courses like "Planning, Delivering, and Assessing School Improvement Programs," "School Management & Budget," and "Legal Issues in Pre-K to 12 Education," culminating in two Principal Internship courses. The Teacher Leader concentration involves additional electives, often in areas like reading, special education, or bilingual education, along with a "Teacher Leader Practicum." All courses require a minimum grade of C, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 is needed for graduation.

Research Focus: The M.A. in Instructional Leadership at Roosevelt University integrates a practical research focus, aimed at developing leaders who can utilize data and evidence to drive school improvement. While not a traditional academic research degree, the program emphasizes skills such as data analysis for identifying achievement gaps, evaluating instructional practices, and assessing professional development programs. Coursework on "Assessment and Data Analysis" and "Instructional Supervision and Evaluation" directly contributes to this applied research approach. Students are encouraged to engage in field experiences and projects that align with individual goals and school improvement plans, allowing them to apply leadership theories and research findings to real-world educational challenges. The program's foundation in social justice education also encourages critical inquiry into equitable practices and outcomes.

Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University demonstrates strong industry engagement within its Instructional Leadership program, primarily by leveraging the expertise of practicing school and district leaders who serve as faculty. This ensures that the curriculum is current, relevant, and directly applicable to the challenges faced by educational leaders in Chicagoland and beyond. The program's design, with job-embedded coursework and opportunities for field experiences and internships (such as the Principal Internship and Teacher Leader Practicum), directly connects academic learning with real-world leadership roles. Furthermore, the explicit aim of preparing licensed teachers for roles as teacher leaders, assistant principals, and principals, and its alignment with Illinois state regulations, underscores its deep connection to the educational sector's needs.

Global Perspective: Roosevelt University fosters a global perspective through its commitment to social justice education and preparing leaders for diverse school environments. While the program directly prepares candidates for Illinois teaching and leadership endorsements, its emphasis on serving "all students," including those with special needs and second language backgrounds, promotes an understanding of the diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes within schools. The overarching mission of Roosevelt University, rooted in social justice, implicitly encourages a broader understanding of educational equity and leadership challenges in various contexts. The diverse student body within the university also contributes to a multicultural learning environment, enriching discussions and broadening perspectives on educational leadership globally.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $42

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 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.

Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.

Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.

International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.

Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.

An M.A. in Instructional Leadership from Roosevelt University is designed to empower licensed teachers to step into influential roles that shape educational environments and drive student success. The program's blend of theoretical knowledge, practical application, and emphasis on social justice prepares graduates for leadership positions within schools and beyond.

School Principal: This is a direct and common career path for graduates, especially those who complete the Principal Endorsement concentration. Principals lead elementary, middle, or high schools, overseeing all aspects of school operations, curriculum, staff, and student welfare.

Assistant Principal: Graduates often begin their administrative careers as assistant principals, supporting the principal in day-to-day management, student discipline, curriculum implementation, and staff supervision.

Teacher Leader/Department Head: For those who prefer to remain primarily in the classroom but take on more leadership responsibilities, a teacher leader role involves mentoring colleagues, leading curriculum development initiatives, facilitating professional development, or heading a specific academic department.

Instructional Coordinator/Curriculum Specialist: These professionals work at the school or district level to design, implement, and evaluate curricula and instructional materials. They often provide guidance and training to teachers on best practices and new teaching methods.

Professional Development Leader/Facilitator: Graduates can design and deliver professional learning opportunities for teachers and school staff, focusing on improving instructional strategies, technology integration, or addressing specific educational challenges.

Director of Special Education/Bilingual Education: With an understanding of diverse learners, graduates can lead specialized programs within a school or district, overseeing services and support for students with special needs or those with diverse language backgrounds.

Educational Consultant: Leveraging their expertise in instructional strategies and leadership, graduates can work as independent consultants or for educational consulting firms, advising schools, districts, or educational organizations on improving teaching, curriculum, or leadership practices.

Program Director (Educational Non-profit/Community Organization): Graduates can lead educational initiatives within non-profit organizations, community centers, or advocacy groups focused on youth development, literacy, or specific educational reform efforts.

Assessment Coordinator: Focused on the "Assessment and Data Analysis" aspect of the program, graduates can manage school or district-wide assessment programs, analyze student performance data, and use these insights to inform instructional decisions and identify areas for improvement.

Higher Education Administrator (e.g., Academic Advisor, Program Coordinator): While more focused on K-12, the leadership, organizational, and pedagogical skills gained can be applied to administrative roles within colleges and universities, supporting academic programs or student services.