

Saint Leo University’s Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership for Catholic School Leaders prepares certified educators to lead a private educational institution, emphasizing the core knowledge and skills they need to fully participate in educational governance at the school, district, and community levels. The MEd degree empowers educators to take on a new leadership role in their school and community, increase their effectiveness in the classroom, and make a greater impact on the lives of young people.
Our students find success as high-level teachers, principals, and administrators in school districts throughout the country.
The state approved Educational Leadership program offers the mastery of core knowledge that will empower the students to graduate to become educational leaders. The addition of the Catholic Leadership courses will blend the wisdom of educational and theology to prepare educational leaders in Catholic Identity, Catholic Intellect, and Catholic Humanism.
Most school administrators must earn a master’s degree and license or certification before they can become a principal or educational leader. Although a handful of states do not yet require licensure or certifications, most follow the national guidelines set by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium to assess beginning school leaders. The MEd – Educational Leadership core curriculum is aligned with the national educational leadership standard areas, covering:
This Catholic School Leaders program includes two classes that explore the theory and practice of religious education and Christian spirituality.
Students who pursue their degrees at Saint Leo’s main campus near sunny Tampa Bay, Florida, join a community of enthusiastic learners just like them.
Saint Leo University’s online learning experience provides a well-rounded education with the flexibility to tailor your course of study to meet your individual needs. We know our students have lives outside school, and we seek to meet them where they are. Online students can count on receiving excellent academics as well as opportunities for hands-on learning.
Taking online classes has afforded me the opportunity to learn while maintaining a job. They give me some flexibility to study at times that work more cohesively with my schedule and allow me to utilize resources such as the library 24 hours a day.
Bentley Streat | Hayes, VA
You may also choose to pursue your degree through one of our education centers, which merge a traditional in-person education with the flexibility to match your lifestyle. Education centers offer eight-week academic terms as well as evening and weekend classes.
No matter which learning experience you choose, you will receive plenty of professional development opportunities, industry knowledge from expert professors, and support from the Saint Leo community. All this together means that you will be ready for a successful career or continued studies upon graduation.
The M.Ed. coursework meets the national standards for educational leadership set forth by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium.
In a supervised practicum, complete school improvement projects that impact curricula, student achievement, and the school’s role within the community. Gain skills in data analysis, school safety, school budgeting, school law, communication, and building community partnerships.
Join Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society for Educators. Further information on Saint Leo clubs and associations can be found here.
Educational leadership degree programs prepare graduates to serve in leadership roles in elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, universities, technical schools, and adult schools. Graduates of the MEd – Educational Leadership concentration can fill any number of highly rewarding positions.
Saint Leo University’s College of Education and Social Services couples a transformative liberal arts tradition with highly specialized training in the education and social services fields. Through close faculty mentorships, practical field internships, and applied learning experiences, we prepare students for careers in education, social work, criminal justice, and human services. Our faculty remain active in their respective fields as researchers and practitioners, giving students close access to a wealth of real-world knowledge and experience.
With the ever-changing needs of today's students, we provide flexible degree programs. These include programs at University Campus and education centers with evening and weekend options, as well as online offerings. These degree programs are grooming the next generation of educators and social service specialists—a new breed of professionals with the talent and resolve to make a difference in the world.