Become an educational leader
Mercer University’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership (P-12 Tier I) prepares candidates for entry-level leadership positions up to the assistant principal within school leadership, or a variety of district-level leadership positions that do not supervise principals.
The 30-hour program consists of 250 clock hours of clinical practice that provide significant opportunities for aspiring educational leaders to synthesize and apply theoretical knowledge, and practice and develop the skills identified through meaningful field experiences cooperatively developed by the candidate, mentor, and faculty advisor. Completion of the program and passing scores on the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) Content Assessment in Educational Leadership, and on the Educational Leadership GACE Ethics Assessment, candidates will be eligible to apply for Level 5 certification in Educational Leadership.
Aspiring educational leaders who currently hold a master’s degree or higher, and Level 5 certification in a field other than Educational Leadership, may pursue the Tier I program as a non-degree, certification-only option. The number of courses needed for the certification-only option for Tier I are determined upon transcript review. Learn more
Completing a Tier I program will not ensure employment in a leadership position, nor will it guarantee a pay increase. According to Georgia law, individuals must be employed by a Local Unit of Administration (LUA) in a position that requires leadership certification in order to receive a pay increase based upon earning Tier I certification.
Designed for busy and working adults
Mercer’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership is offered in a blended format. Classes meet during eight-week terms, and each course meets once per week online and once per month on the Atlanta campus on Saturdays. With this model, 50% of the course is conducted through a synchronous, online format, 25% through an in-person format, and 25% through an asynchronous, online format. Candidates will also devote time to clinical practice hours at their own school.
Expand your knowledge
Through program curriculum, students will gain knowledge in:
- Serving as a building- or system-level educational leader in Georgia’s schools
- Developing a great understanding of leadership theory
- Putting knowledge into practice through in-school experience
Learn more about our M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (P-12 Tier I)
- Program Requirements
- Course Descriptions
- Admissions
- Tuition and Aid
- Educational Leadership (P-12 Tier I) Non-Degree Certification
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule your personalized admissions appointment or contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 678.547.6062 or MercerEducation@mercer.edu for more information.
The cohort model truly made my experience what it was. We were able to have deep, meaningful conversations and discussions in class about educational leadership that meant more to me than anything I read in a textbook or covered on a test.
I knew I wanted to earn my Master of Education in Educational Leadership so that I was prepared for a leadership position in my district. I chose Mercer after an information session where faculty explained the support system Mercer offers, the real-world applications of the program, and how accessible professors are to students.
Meet Our Faculty
Mercer’s Tift College of Education is supported by faculty and staff who devote themselves to preparing students to become transforming educators within their communities and throughout the world.
Professional licensure
All of Mercer’s programs that lead to licensure are designed to meet the educational requirements of regulatory authorities in the State of Georgia. If you intend to seek licensure or certification outside of Georgia, please review Mercer’s professional licensure disclosure for more information.