Graduate Studies

Educational Leadership

“The veteran professors in the program came from the trenches and were knowledgeable, engaging and responsive to student needs. The hot button educational issues we discussed made me even more passionate about servant leadership and making a difference in the lives of my district's stakeholders. Best of all, the educational leaders in our cohort built a strong collegial relationship that will endure in the years to come.” –  John Ulferts, Superintendent-Principal, Shirland School District.

Program Overview

The School of Education offers a comprehensive graduate academic program in educational leadership within which a student may earn a Master of Science in Education (MS Ed.), an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree, and/or an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.). The master's program concentrates on the general background and skills needed for entry into positions of educational leadership. Sequences at the education specialist level expand this base and add elements that contribute to continued professional growth and those required, specifically, to qualify for the position of superintendent of schools. The doctorate program develops instructional leaders. This goal is achieved by means of a collaborative, inquiry-based learning structure that unites a group of practicing professionals to explore how theory, research, and heightened political understanding serve to resolve the issues educational leaders regularly face. Additionally principal licensure and superintendent licensure are offered.

Why Choose Educational Leadership at WIU?

The mission of the Educational Leadership programs are to prepare transformational leaders who cultivate exemplary learning organizations.

Our Faculty

The Educational Leadership faculty hold doctoral degrees from some of the finest universities in the United States. Their professional experience includes service as principals, business managers, curriculum directors, and district superintendents.

Possible Careers

  • School principal
  • School superintendent
  • Curriculum director

Other Information

The educational leadership program at Western Illinois University offers degree and certificate programs through the Weekend Academy format. In this format, classes meet on Saturdays and Sundays with a 3 s.h. class meeting three weekends. Courses are offered at both the Macomb and the Moline campuses.

  • Western Illinois University
    School of Education
    Horrabin Hall 115
    Macomb, IL 61455
    (309)298-1183
  • Western Illinois University - Quad Cities
    3300 River Drive
    Moline, IL 61265
    (309)762-9481

Quick View

Degrees Available:

  • Education Specialist (Ed.S.)
  • Master's of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)
  • Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.)

Locations:

  • Quad Cities
  • Macomb

Required GPA for Ed.D.:

  • Cumulative: 3.0

Required GPA for MS.Ed. and Ed. Specialist:

  • Cumulative: 2.75 or
  • Last 2 years: 3.0

Admission Requirements:

  • Interview
  • Portfolio
  • Transcripts
  • Writing sample

Interesting Facts: Fall 2023

  • Currently enrolled: 148
  • International: 24
  • Minority: 31
  • Students with Assistantships: 6

Department Contact Information:

Horrabin Hall 115
309/298-1183
soedu@wiu.edu