Superintendent Preparation Options

Post-Masters Superintendent Licensure

This is a post-master’s program.  Although formal admission into the Educational Leadership program is not required, candidates must hold a master’s degree and principal endorsement as a prerequisite for taking courses within this option. The Post-Masters Superintendent Licensure Option provides the academic requirements needed for a Superintendent endorsement to those currently holding a Class 3 License with any of the three types of Principal endorsement.

Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S)

The Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S.) is a practitioner’s degree.  Many states require this degree for Superintendent licensure, however, Montana does not.  Thus, this degree is particularly valuable for students who see themselves working in other states during their superintendent career.  Admission into the Educational Leadership program is required.

The purpose of the degree is to provide skills and knowledge required for the position of district superintendent. In addition to improving skill and knowledge, it is the goal of the program to create strong networks among students to support effective practices.  To that end, classes are generally offered in a blended format which combines face-to-face delivery and distance delivery.   An appropriate balance of theory and practice is a strong consideration in planning for the content of the classes

Post-Masters Superintendent Licensure

Courses are generally offered in a hybrid format. During the academic year, the courses are mostly delivered using distance delivery technology with limited face-to-face meetings. During the summer, 1/3 of the course is offered using distance delivery and 2/3 is offered face-to-face on campus. The summer courses start with online instruction about mid-June and start face-to-face for three weeks on campus the second week of July.  On campus courses meet Monday through Friday.

Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S)

Overview of Program Delivery

The Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S.) is a practitioner's degree. The purpose of the degree is to provide skills and knowledge required for the position of district superintendent. In addition to improving skill and knowledge, it is the goal of the program to create strong networks among students to support effective practices. To that end, classes are generally offered in a blended format which combines face-to-face delivery and distance delivery. An appropriate balance of theory and practice is a strong consideration in planning for the content of the classes.