Harding University

What you'll study

The program of study totals 30 credit hours and incorporates coursework with two semesters of internship experience. Students compile and present a professional portfolio mapped to Arkansas and national standards and complete a portfolio defense followed by an exit survey. Current course schedules are published on the Graduate Studies in Education home page.

Entry requirements

• Complete the online application.
• Request official transcripts to admissions@harding.edu.
• Two professional or academic recommendations addressing potential for success and professional/academic background.
• A principal’s recommendation addressing: support for participation, evidence the applicant performs at the level of an effective educator, and examples of leadership abilities.
• Upload current educator license, MMR immunization record, resume, and documentation of at least one year of licensed teaching experience (e.g., signed contract or letter on official letterhead).
• Provisional admittance considered for undergraduate cumulative GPAs between 2.5 and 2.99; GRE may be requested if prior degree GPA is below 3.0.
• An admission/advising interview with the program director (phone, virtual, or face-to-face) is required.
• Documentation of Science of Reading Awareness (Phase I) as described by the Prescribed Pathway Credentials is required; if not complete at admission, it must be finished before program completion.
• Note: To be eligible for licensure upon program completion, applicants must have three years of licensed teaching experience.

Career prospects

The curriculum targets experienced teachers preparing for leadership roles in K–12 settings, curriculum coordination, instructional leadership, and pathways toward school administration licensure where experience requirements are satisfied. Internships and the standards-aligned portfolio are designed to demonstrate readiness for administrative responsibilities at the school or district level.

Scholarships & funding angle

Harding’s graduate admissions pages reference scholarships and financial aid; prospective students should consult the university’s Scholarships and Financial Aid office, review cost-of-attendance details, and explore federal aid (FAFSA) and institution-specific awards to determine available funding options.