Online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Courses

The rigorous curriculum in the online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership at Winthrop University is recognized for meeting all topics in the eight categories outlined in the National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) and the standards of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).The degree program consists of 36 credits over 9 courses and 3 internships that build your knowledge and experience to become an educational leader dedicated to excellence.

You'll graduate prepared to sit for the Praxis Educational Leadership exam, required in South Carolina, passed by 98% of graduates who take it. 

Core Courses (36 Credits)

EDLD 601 Introduction to Educational Leadership (3 credits)

This course focuses on the theories of leadership and motivation, effective communication for school administrators, issues and trends in school leadership, and the development of skills to develop, articulate and implement a school vision and mission. Students will gain an understanding of the principal’s role in establishing a school culture with productive relationships between all stakeholders. Creating and establishing and leading a professional learning community will also be addressed.

EDLD 640 Educational Research, Design, and Analysis (3 credits)

A core course for graduate educators in the principles, methods, and procedures of educational research, design, and analysis. The development of a proposal outlining a study, project, or practicum is required.
Course Goals:
1. Use research terminology accurately.
2. Describe quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to research.
3. Critically analyze published research.
4. Identify and assess ethical issues related to research on human behavior.
5. Design appropriate research to answer research questions related to the discipline.
6. Use research to inform evidence-based practices

EDLD 602 Techniques of Supervision (3 credits)

This course is designed for the preparation of general instructional supervisors who will work with elementary and secondary teachers and for the preparation of subject area supervisors.

EDLD 603 Curriculum Leadership in Schools (3 credits)

Designed for the preparation of administrators for leadership of curriculum and instruction programs in elementary and secondary schools. Initiative must rely on current research and be aligned with the objectives of the school district. This course is interactive. It includes a major project related to the improvement of teaching and learning. Use of test data to drive instruction will be examined. Students will be involved in sharing observations and interviews, addressing current issues, and applying leadership skills to curriculum issues within the school setting.

EDLD 611 School Law (3 credits)

A study of constitutional, statutory and judicial law and current legal issues affecting school administrators and teachers. Notes: Offered in spring and summer.

EDLD 613 Leadership for Students with Disabilities (3 credits)

This course will detail the school administrator’s role in assisting and guiding teachers as they work with children with special and unique needs. The focus is on developing leadership knowledge and skills to serve diverse populations. This course is designed to address issues associated with programs for these groups within the school. Specific categories of students will be examined in the course including students with various disabilities, gifted learners, students from poverty and English Language Learners. Attention will be given to what leaders need to know to successfully design, implement and monitor programs for diverse student populations in an inclusive school environment.

EDLD 610 Fiscal and Business Management in Schools (3 credits)

This course focuses on the financial, operational, and management skills needed by principals to successfully operate a public school.

EDLD 616 School Personnel Development (3 credits)

This course is a study of the major functions of personnel selection and professional development within the school setting. The study includes both certified and classified personnel.

EDLD 604 Principalship for the 21st Century (3 credits)

This course focuses on the roles and responsibilities of the elementary and secondary school principal. Students will examine various aspects of the daily work of principals. Applying the characteristics of effective schools, special attention is given to data-driven decision-making and the school improvement planning process. Also class sessions address conflict, dealing with difficult people, and the change process. Students will extend their understanding of the principal’s role in establishing and leading a professional learning community. Finally, reflective activities will enable principal candidates to see themselves as a leader in order to continuously build on strengths.

EDLD 621 Principal Internship 1 (3 credits)

The internship is designed as the first section of a three-part experience to allow the student to put theory into practice. During this course, the candidates work under the supervision of school administrators and participate in problem-solving seminars. The students will identify areas they wish to strengthen. A plan will be developed to enhance their skills in the identified areas which will be implemented during the second and third parts of the internship experience.

EDLD 622 Principal Internship 2 (3 credits)

The internship is designed as the second section of a three-part experience to allow the student to put theory into practice. During this course, the candidates work under the supervision of school administrators and participate in problem-solving seminars. The students will identify areas they wish to strengthen. A plan will be developed to enhance their skills in the identified areas which will be implemented during the second and third parts of the internship experience.

EDLD 623 Principal Internship 3 (3 credits)

The internship is designed as the third section of a three-part experience to allow the student to put theory into practice. During this course, the candidates work under the supervision of school administrators and participate in problem-solving seminars. The students will identify areas they wish to strengthen. A plan will be developed to enhance their skills in the identified areas which will be implemented during the second and third parts of the internship experience.