M.Ed. Leadership Studies Concentration

“This program gave me the confidence and tools to be successful as a student affairs professional. I’m so satisfied that I’m pursuing my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership here as well.”

- Ra'meer Roberts, M.Ed. ’20

 
The leadership studies concentration of the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership is a 30-credit-hour program for individuals pursuing educational leadership roles. Through a highly individualized program, students explore essential leadership theory and practice through participation in a rigorous core course of study emphasizing equity and social justice, complemented by individualized course options. The program includes 15 credit hours in required courses and 15 credit hours in a concentrated series of interdisciplinary electives chosen with approval of the student’s adviser.

Designed for working professionals, this program can be completed in as little as 16 months. Applicants are expected to have at least two years of experience in an educational setting.

This program offers:

  • 15 credit hours in required courses that provide core knowledge and skills essential to effective leadership
  • 15 credit hours in a concentrated series of electives tailored to your interests in leadership (chosen with advisor approval)
  • Field-based learning experiences
  • Access to experienced faculty and instructor practitioners

Degree requirements for the leadership studies concentration »

Please keep in mind exact course requirements may vary so consult your adviser or the program coordinator with any questions.

CONCENTRATION/VCU BULLETIN INFO

PROGRAM BASICS

How to apply: Graduate application
Semester of entry: Fall, Spring, Summer
Application deadlines: Fall - April 1; Spring - Nov. 1; Summer - March 1
Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

EXTENDED DEADLINE: May 15

Resources and Checklists

Application Checklist - M.Ed. in Educational Leadership [PDF]

Please note, we suggest you identify the best concentration for your future career and connect with our Enrollment Management team and/or program coordinator if you have questions. Each application requires an individual application fee.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  • VCU Graduate School requirements
  • Statement of intent
    • This is a program focusing on leadership. What are your reasons for applying to this program and what are the goals you will strive to achieve?
    • Describe a situation in your professional practice when you were asked to solve a problem and what you learned.
    • The statement of intent should be no more than two single spaced pages.
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts from previous academic work
  • Resumé or CV

FOR MORE IN-DEPTH INFO

Certificate in Medical Education (TiME) to M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Pathway

For alumni of the Certificate in Medical Education who would like to utilize your program credits toward completing an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, please see this application checklist for your next steps. By utilizing your 12 certificate credits, you can complete the M.Ed. program with 15 core leadership courses and one elective of your choice.

This program will benefit medical and health professions faculty seeking to advance in their academic roles. Building on the foundational courses of the graduate Certificate in Medical Education, the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program will prepare students for entry-level academic leadership roles as they explore contemporary topics in key areas of higher education administration.

Watch our information session recording and review the slides for additional information.

Additional Concentrations

Ready To Get Started?

Brandon Norris, Recruitment And Enrollment Counselor