University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The programme combines graduate-level coursework, applied leadership experience and a supervised research component. Core study areas include leadership theory and ethics, school law and governance, financial and human resource management in education, curriculum design and assessment, and data-informed decision making. Students also engage with Indigenous ways of knowing, equity and inclusion in schools, and change management for improving teaching and learning.

Typical modules and subjects you can expect:

• Foundations of Educational Leadership: theories, models and ethical practice
• Policy, Law and Governance in Education
• School Finance, Resource Management and Human Relations
• Instructional Leadership, Teacher Supervision and Professional Learning
• Curriculum Development, Assessment and Data Use
• Research Methods and Applied Inquiry in Education
• Leadership Practicum or Internship: supervised placement in a school or district setting
• Indigenous Education and Community Engagement
• Electives in areas such as special education leadership, mental health and wellbeing, or system-level leadership

Students may complete the degree through a combination of coursework and either a major research project or a thesis, depending on their career and scholarly aims. The College of Education offers flexible delivery with options for full‑time or part‑time study and a mix of in‑person and distance learning to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree from a recognised university with competitive academic standing, typically demonstrated by a grade‑point average at the upper undergraduate level. Preference is given to candidates with professional experience in education or a related field (for example, certified teachers, school administrators or educational coordinators).

Required supporting documents commonly include:

• A current curriculum vitae or resume
• A statement of intent outlining leadership goals and reasons for graduate study
• Academic transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions
• Professional references (usually two) attesting to academic and/or leadership potential
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a writing sample. Specific admission thresholds and additional requirements (such as certification or minimum experience for certain pathways) are detailed by the College of Education admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Educational Leadership pursue leadership roles across the education sector. Common career paths include:

• School principal or vice‑principal
• District or regional coordinator for curriculum, assessment or special programmes
• Educational policy advisor or analyst in government or non‑profit organisations
• Consultant in school improvement, instructional leadership or professional development
• Roles in post‑secondary administration, continuing education and adult learning
• Research or doctoral study in educational leadership and policy

The programme’s practicum and applied research focus equip graduates to lead school improvement initiatives, manage resources, support teacher development and engage communities in advancing student outcomes.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan’s College of Education is a regional centre for teacher education and educational research with a strong emphasis on Indigenous education, rural and northern contexts, and community‑engaged practice. Students benefit from faculty who are experienced scholars and practitioners in school leadership, policy and curriculum, and from established partnerships with school divisions across the province.

The College offers mentorship and practicum placements that connect theory to day‑to‑day school leadership, and research supervision that supports applied projects addressing real challenges in schools. Flexible delivery options make the programme accessible to practising educators, while the university’s research environment and interdisciplinary centres provide opportunities to develop leadership-informed research and policy work.