Educational Leadership & Administration Programs at GW
EVERY STUDENT
DESERVES
A LEADER LIKE
YOU
Become an
Equity-Centered Leader at GW
Become an
Equity-Centered Leader at GW
Earn an advanced degree in Educational Leadership & Administration
At the George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD), we empower aspiring leaders to turn PreK-12 challenges into opportunities for meaningful change. Whether you aim to lead in a school, district, or educational organization, our graduate programs provide a foundation in data-driven decision making, effective communication, curriculum innovation, and human relations.
Through our holistic approach, you’ll build practical, equity-centered leadership skills in:
Administration
Resource Management
Instructional Supervision
Policy Implementation
- Administration
- Resource Management
- Instructional Supervision
- Policy Implementation
Gain Invaluable Real-World Experience
Engage in practical internships and fieldwork aligned with your career goals. Combined with our research-driven curriculum, you'll be prepared to tackle challenges such as teacher burnout, resource gaps, and social justice inequities while supporting student success at every level. Strengthen your leadership skills through a blend of theory, practice, and research to boost your competitiveness in the job market.
Join A Global Network with Diverse Perspectives
Become part of our dynamic community of students and expert faculty from around the world, each bringing unique insights and professional expertise to the classroom. Engage with a network of passionate leaders dedicated to advancing education, preparing you to navigate complex challenges and develop innovative, real-world solutions.
A Legacy of Excellence
In this high interaction program, you'll have ample opportunities to work alongside expert faculty—active researchers and with extensive experience at the local, state, national, and international levels—and industry leaders. For 30+ years, the ELA program has delivered an unparalleled education, equipping students with valuable resources and personalized mentoring.
New: Save 30% with the Educator Scholarship
Cost should never be a barrier to your leadership potential. That is why GW is investing in you.
If you have at least one year of PreK-12 teaching experience and are accepted into one of GW’s licensure-eligible ELA programs*, you may be eligible for the PreK-12 Educator Scholarship, which saves 30% off your tuition. Plus, there's additional funding opportunities available!
Eligible programs include the Master's, Education Specialist (EdS) and Post-Master's Certificate (PMC) in Educational Leadership & Administration. The Doctorate (EdD) is not included. Limitations may apply. Learn more >
- Master's *
This advanced and accelerated 30-credit hour program prepares school faculty and current administrators to become equity-centered leaders within a school or school district, in positions such as assistant principal, curriculum specialist, instructional supervisor, or a variety of other roles with leadership responsibilities. It combines hands-on experience and comprehensive coursework to equip students to address current educational challenges and develop vital skills in management, instruction supervision, and related principles.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least one year of teaching experience.
- Post-Master's Certificate *
This advanced and accelerated 18-credit certificate program is designed for working professionals and can be completed in just one year. It equips students to become an equity-centered leader in PreK-12 education, in roles such as school/central office administration, supervisory positions, or increased professional responsibilities.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree in education and have at least one year of teaching experience.
Upon successful completion, if all requirements are met, you may have the opportunity to transfer the certificate credit hours toward the ELA Education Specialist degree.
- Doctorate in Education (EdD)
This rigorous 48-credit hour program prepares scholar-leaders to become catalysts for change in diverse educational settings by using evidence-based approaches that bridge research and practice. Course curriculum combines research methods, data analysis, hands-on experience, and critical problem-solving to address current PreK-12 challenges and enhance student learning and achievement. Graduates of this cohort-based program assume leadership roles at local, state, and federal levels, where they advocate for and drive essential educational transformations.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree.
- Education Specialist (EdS) *
Designed for working PreK-12 professionals, this advanced and accelerated 30-credit hour terminal degree can be completed part-time in as little as 2 years. Gain real-world experience and prepare to promote high-quality student achievement at the school or district-wide level, to take on increased teaching or professional responsibilities, and to meet the needs of diverse learning communities as an equity-centered leader.
To qualify for admission, you must hold a master's degree and have at least one year of teaching experience.
- Education Specialist (EdS) in Special Education Leadership *
Designed for experienced and aspiring leaders, this 30-credit program equips special educators pursuing PreK-12 administrative licensure and educational leaders seeking to champion students with disabilities with the advanced skills to drive systemic change, advocate for inclusive education, and make a lasting impact on student success.
The EdS in Special Education Leadership is sequenced in two phases. First, students apply to and complete the Post-Master’s Certificate (PMC) in Educational Leadership & Administration, which fulfills the coursework requirements to apply for administrative licensure.* Upon completion, they may apply to the EdS program, where the 18 credits from the PMC are combined with 12 additional credits in special education to fulfill the EdS degree requirements.
*Returning students who previously completed the PMC in ELA within the last five years should apply directly to the EdS in Special Education Leadership.
Accredited + Licensure Eligible
Our advanced graduate programs (notated with an * above) are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and recognized by the National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA). The ELA master's, post-master's certificate, and education specialist programs include courses and internship experiences designed to meet the academic requirements and eligibility for administrative certification/licensure in the District of Columbia. Learn more about advanced certification and licensure in DC and other states >
The Doctorate in Educational Leadership program at George Washington University empowers leaders to drive transformative change, fostering innovation and equity in education through rigorous scholarship, collaborative practice, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Christopher Jenkins, EdD Program
Flexible Learning Options
Each program is designed for working PreK-12 professionals and can be completed online or in our off-campus classrooms.
GRE is Not Required
The GSEHD Admissions team completes a wholistic review, considering extracurricular activities, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
No Application Fee
There’s no risk to applying to GSEHD, only reward! So what are you waiting for? Apply today!
The Doctorate in Educational Leadership program at George Washington University empowers leaders to drive transformative change, fostering innovation and equity in education through rigorous scholarship, collaborative practice, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Christopher Jenkins, EdD Program
Hear from current students and recent alumni to learn more about GW's Educational Leadership & Administration programs
Your Future in Educational Leadership
With an advanced degree in Educational Leadership and Administration, broaden your opportunities for a leadership position within your school, district, or in higher education.
- Principal / Assistant Principal
- Athletic Director
- Superintendent
- Central Office Administrator
- PK-12 Dean
- Instructional Supervisor
- Education Advisor/Consultant
- Program Director
- Department Chair
- Director of Admissions
- Curriculum Specialist
- Policymaker
>95%
Pass the School Leader Licensure Assessment (SLLA)
This demonstrates the depth of academic rigor and professional preparation students receive at GW
