KSU announces online master's in educational leadership

  MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is launching an online master's degree in educational leadership designed to offer the knowledge and skills needed to assume a significant leadership role in K-12 school settings.

The 36-credit professional degree, which is accepting applications now with classes to begin in summer 2021, also offers a path to Kansas building-level — principal — licensure for teachers looking to enhance their career.

"This program offers students a challenging and rewarding experience as they earn their degree and qualify for Kansas building leadership licensure," said Robert Hachiya, associate professor of educational leadership. "Every aspect of our previous on-campus degree program has been combined with the curriculum used in our nationally recognized partner leadership academies to help prepare tomorrow's leaders for all educational settings — from small rural communities to large urban centers."

Hachiya said the online program was developed for teachers whose personal circumstances make in-person classes difficult.

"We designed this fully online option to respond to the needs of students who are not able to travel and meet in person, while fully maintaining the academic rigor and applied leadership focus that has long distinguished the program," he said.

Courses include both synchronous and asynchronous elements, with the curriculum centered on three main areas: leadership, student learning needs and school operations.

"We are excited to partner with the College of Education to expand the availability of this prestigious program to students who prefer to study online," said Katie Linder, executive director at K-State Online. "Schools are in constant need of good leadership, and we're proud to help prepare the next wave of leaders in the Kansas school system."