Prepare to Lead in Independent and Charter Schools
Mercer’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Independent and Charter School Leadership is designed for professionals who want to lead in the environments of independent or charter schools. Whether you are currently in a leadership role or are preparing to step into one, this program equips you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact.
Ideal for aspiring or current principals, assistant principals, headmasters, or departmental directors (such as admissions or student services), the program also supports professionals from non-education backgrounds looking to strengthen their understanding of educational leadership.
This program does not lead to educator certification or certification upgrades.
Format: Blended (combination of online and in-person) • Start Terms: January, March, May, August, and October • Application Deadlines: December 1, March 1, May 1, August 1, and October 1 • Course Length: 8 weeks • Completion Time: 12-16 months |
Your Mercer Independent and Charter School Leadership master’s degree experience
Mercer’s M.Ed. in Independent and Charter School Leadership is offered in a blended combination of in-person and online courses. Students meet one Saturday in-person on Mercer’s Atlanta campus each session, with the remaining content delivered online. Courses are scheduled in eight-week terms.
Explore M.Ed. in Independent and Charter School Leadership courses
The M.Ed. in Independent and Charter School Leadership is a 30-credit hour program focused on practical leadership skills for independent school settings.
You will study topics such as:
- Leadership, curriculum, and supervision
- How to manage school resources and programs
- Legal, ethical, and operational aspects of school leadership
- Strategies for building strong internal and external relationships
- Educational research methods and real-world application through an internship
View independent and charter school leadership curriculum course descriptions and program requirements to learn more.
Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Partnership
Mercer partners with the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) to offer the M.Ed. In Independent and Charter School Leadership program, with leaders from GISA and GISA-affiliated schools teaching in the program. Individuals who complete GISA’s Emerging Leaders program are eligible to receive prior learning assessment credit for two courses (EDEL 621 Foundations of Independent Schools and EDEL 645A Internship).
Prepare for Meaningful Roles in Independent and Charter Schools
Mercer’s M.Ed. program is designed to prepare educators and professionals for leadership roles in independent and charter school settings. Graduates are equipped to serve as principals, assistant principals, or directors of departments such as admissions and student services.
The program also supports current independent and charter school leaders—especially those with backgrounds outside of education—who want to deepen their understanding of the unique challenges within these educational environments. It’s an ideal option for professionals looking to grow their impact in schools or expand their leadership in the nonprofit or business sectors.
Learn more about our M.Ed. in Independent and Charter School Leadership
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule your personalized admissions counseling appointment, or contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 678.547.6062 or MercerEducation@mercer.edu for more information.
Learn from experienced faculty
Mercer’s educational leadership program faculty bring experience in education and educational leadership to the classroom.
Ready to take the next step in your journey?
Schedule a personalized admissions counseling appointment to Mercer’s M.Ed. in Independent and Charter School Leadership and prepare to lead with purpose.