Program Overview
At the University of South Dakota, the Division of Educational Leadership prepares innovative scholar-practitioners to lead and transform learning communities. Designed for aspiring and current educational leaders, our programs develop critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making skills to navigate complex challenges in education. We serve pre-K-12 and higher education leaders, including school and district administrators, higher education professionals, and policy influencers. Offering master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees with flexible learning options, our specializations include Pre-K-12 Educational Leadership and Higher Education & Adult Learning. Rooted in inquiry, partnership, and systemic change, we empower graduates to solve real-world problems, lead effective learning environments, and foster strong relationships. The Educational Leadership programs have been accredited by CAEP since 1956. Our programs uphold the highest standards, ensuring graduates are equipped to drive meaningful change.
Learn more at https://www.usd.edu/Academics/Graduate-Programs/Educational-Administration-and-Leadership.
DELIVERY: Online* | Hybrid
* Program requires 4 Saturday sessions on-campus per semester (EDAD 801/805/810/885 and EDER 763 or 860). This program may not satisfy student visa requirements.
General Application Requirements
- Completed application
- $36 application fee
- Official transcripts*
*Requirements for admission vary by program and may require different documentation and have different deadlines. This list is not all-inclusive, to view specific program requirements and submission deadlines, follow the “Admissions Information” hyperlink at the top of this page OR visit the specific program/dept. page found here: link.usd.edu/grad-catalog
Distance Program Leading to Professional Licensure
Location Matters. This program is designed to meet the educational requirements for a professional license or certification and allows students to enroll in at least one course through distance education during the first semester. Pursuant to Federal Regulations, the program may only admit students who are located in states where the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure or who attest in writing that they intend to seek licensure or employment in a state where the program meets those requirements. As part of your application to this program, you will be asked to provide additional information regarding your location to assist the program in determining your eligibility for admission.
If you have questions regarding licensure, we encourage you to contact a program representative prior to submitting your admission application, as the application fee is non-refundable. For more information, visit USD’s Licensure-Track Programs page for links to the USD program websites and state licensure board websites.
Additionally, this program is authorized to offer supervised field study experiences (internship, externship, clinical, rotation, practicum, independent study, study away, etc.) in South Dakota. Please be aware that there may be some restrictions on your ability to engage in supervised field study outside of South Dakota. If you have questions regarding supervised field study, please contact a program representative.
Distance education courses or programs will not be offered outside of the United States without prior written approval from the University, which may be withheld for any reason. If you are taking distance courses while physically located outsides of the United States, it is your responsibility to confirm the following: (a) if the country will recognize an online degree; (b) whether the program meets licensure or certification requirements in the country including the availability of supervised field study opportunities in the country; and (c) if the country charges any additional taxes, withholdings or fees associated with online distance education programs.
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