Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

This programme combines theory and practicum to prepare candidates for leadership and supervisory roles in schools and district offices. Core areas of study typically include educational leadership and ethics, school law and policy, finance and resource management, curriculum development and assessment, instructional supervision and teacher evaluation, and data-driven decision making.

• Instructional Leadership and Supervision – approaches to improving classroom practice, coaching strategies, teacher evaluation models and professional development design.
• School Law and Policy – legal responsibilities of school leaders, student rights, personnel law and compliance with state and federal regulations.
• School Finance and Resource Management – budgeting, allocation of resources, facilities planning and fiscal accountability in public schools.
• Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment – curriculum alignment, standards-based instruction, formative and summative assessment systems.
• Educational Research and Data Use – using data to guide school improvement, program evaluation and evidence-based decision making.
• Practicum / Internship – supervised field experience in an administrative role within a school or district, providing hands-on leadership practice and mentorship from experienced administrators.

Programme delivery options often include on-campus and blended formats, with emphasis on applied assignments and a culminating field experience or capstone project rather than a traditional research thesis.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualification – a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Licensure – applicants are commonly expected to hold a valid teaching certificate or relevant educational licence where applicable; non-certified educators should check alternative admission pathways.
• Professional experience – classroom teaching or school-based professional experience is typically required or strongly recommended to ensure readiness for administrative practicum.
• Supporting materials – a professional résumé or curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining leadership goals, and references from educational supervisors or colleagues.
• Additional requirements – some candidates may need to satisfy a minimum graduate GPA or provide test scores if requested; applicants should consult the programme admissions office for specific documentation and background checks required for practicum placements.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field move into a variety of leadership roles in K–12 education and related organisations. Typical positions include assistant principal, principal, curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, director of student services, and district-level administrator.

• School building leadership (assistant principal, principal)
• District administration (curriculum director, personnel director, operations)
• Instructional coaching and professional development leadership
• Specialist roles such as curriculum specialist, assessment coordinator or student services director
• Education policy, consulting and non-profit leadership focused on school improvement

The programme also supports those pursuing state licensure for school administration; career outcomes are often enhanced by the supervised practicum experience and local school district partnerships.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU’s College of Education has a long-standing relationship with Tennessee schools and places emphasis on practical, locally relevant leadership preparation. The programme integrates applied field experiences with coursework taught by faculty who have K–12 administrative backgrounds and active ties to regional districts.

• Strong connections with local and regional school systems that support placements and mentoring during practicum experiences.
• Flexible delivery options that accommodate working educators, including evening, hybrid or online courses where available.
• Access to MTSU resources for professional growth, including workshops, continuing education and networks of alumni working in school leadership.
• Preparation aligned with state administrative licensure expectations and a focus on contemporary issues in school leadership such as equity, data-driven improvement and community engagement.

Prospective students should contact the MTSU College of Education for the most current guidance on programme pathways, licensure requirements and admissions advising.