Fresno Pacific University

What you'll study

The program requires 36 units, combining core leadership courses, applied fieldwork, and a thesis sequence. Required courses listed in the catalog are:

• ADM 740 – Building Shared Vision and Leadership Capacity (2 credits)
• ADM 741 – Developing Student Learning in a Standards-Based System (4)
• ADM 741A – Fieldwork: Developing Student Learning in a Standards-Based System (2)
• ADM 742 – Organizational Management in Support of Student Learning (4)
• ADM 742A – Fieldwork: Organizational Management in Support of Student Learning (2)
• ADM 743 – Meeting Diverse Needs of Family and Community (2)
• ADM 744 – Connecting the Broader Influences on Schools (4)
• ADM 744A – Fieldwork: Connecting the Broader Influences on Schools (2)
• ADM 745 – Digital Leadership in Schools (2)
• ADM 735 – Leadership and Change (3)
• ADM 779 – Building Community in Schools and Society (3)
• ADM 794 – Thesis Introduction and Literature Review (3)
• ADM 795 – Research Methods in Education (3)
• ADM 796 – Thesis Completion (1)

The sequence foregrounds creating shared vision, standards-based student learning, organizational management, community engagement, and digital leadership, with fieldwork courses tied to key modules and a thesis requirement supported by research-methods instruction.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on an admissions committee review of academic record, work experience and a personal statement. Application materials required by the catalog include:

• Completed graduate application
• Official transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (a current transcript may be submitted if degree is in progress; a final transcript is required before enrollment)
• One reference attesting to professional and academic qualifications (form available through FPU)
• Statement of intent describing interest, long-term goals and field experience
• Program interview following submission of materials
• Approved basic credential or certificate of clearance
• Verification of a current negative TB test (within 12 months)

If cumulative undergraduate GPA is below 3.0, the applicant must submit a letter of explanation. Notification of acceptance follows review of all required documents.

Career prospects

The program prepares candidates to serve as administrative leaders in California schools and districts, emphasizing student-centered leadership, ethical practice, organizational management, family and community collaboration, and influence on policy and practice. Course content and fieldwork are oriented toward the practical challenges current administrators face.

Scholarships & funding angle

The catalog page references cost and financial aid links; prospective students should contact FPU’s admissions or financial aid offices and consult the university’s graduate pages for information on tuition, institutional scholarships, loans and other funding options.