Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree)
Hours: 21 Online
About
The Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) at Fort Hays State University prepares educational professionals for building-level leadership roles, focusing on principal responsibilities and school leadership. By focusing on foundational principles, such as ethical leadership, school law, and community relations, graduates are prepared to lead schools effectively and respond to the needs of diverse educational communities.
FHSU's Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) program requires the completion of 21 credit hours, enabling participants to specialize in essential areas of building administration and supervision. Courses include topics like personnel evaluation, educational research, and building finance.
Why pursue an Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) at Fort Hays State University?
The Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) at FHSU stands out for its fully online structure, offering a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards.
FHSU provides students with unmatched support and resources, from expert faculty guidance to a curriculum addressing educational leadership's critical aspects. Compared to similar programs, FHSU's Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) program is highly customizable, allowing participants to tailor their studies to their career goals.
Who is this program for?
The Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) is ideal for experienced educators who aspire to advance into roles such as building principals, school administrators, or district-level leaders. This endorsement is particularly beneficial for:
- Educators aiming to become principals
- Teachers pursuing career advancement in school leadership
- Current administrators seeking specialized leadership training
- Professionals meeting state licensure requirements for building principals
- Educators interested in managing school operations and community relations
Learning Outcomes
The Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) program at FHSU commits to developing capable, well-rounded school leaders. Graduates will gain the expertise to lead effectively, promoting a culture of collaboration, ethical practice, and inclusivity within their schools. These outcomes are based on FHSU's dedication to high-quality, practical education that aligns with the latest standards in educational leadership.
School Mission and Vision Development
Graduates will understand how to establish and communicate a school mission and vision that reflects core educational values, such as equity, digital citizenship, and community engagement. It includes data analysis and strategic planning skills to create an environment where students and staff feel valued and motivated to succeed.
Professional Norms and Ethical Leadership
Students can model and uphold professional dispositions, including fairness, integrity, and trust. That outcome prepares graduates to foster a positive school climate that supports educational success and well-being for all school community members.
Data-Driven School Culture Assessment
This endorsement trains graduates to utilize data in assessing and improving school culture, emphasizing inclusivity and support for all students. That skill set enables future principals to make informed decisions that enhance student engagement, foster diversity, and create a safe learning environment.
Family and Community Engagement
Graduates will be adept at building solid relationships with families and community members, essential for supporting student learning inside and outside school. That capacity for engagement includes strategies to involve diverse families and strengthen school-community ties.
Real-World Applications
Our Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) program prepares students for practical, real-world applications by focusing on scenario-based learning and field-specific coursework. Participants gain experience tackling common challenges principals encounter, from fostering community relationships to managing school finances.
In addition, the endorsement's practicum component, AEP 879 Practicum, provides students with practical exposure to the daily responsibilities of school administration. Students work closely with experienced administrators, gaining insight into problem-solving, decision-making, and community-building within school environments.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
FHSU’s Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) integrates the latest trends and advancements in educational leadership to ensure graduates prepare for the evolving demands of school administration. The endorsement curriculum is structured around contemporary educational challenges, from integrating technology to promoting diversity and inclusivity in school environments.
Students stay at the forefront of educational advancements through coursework that includes Educational Research, Ethics and Professional Norms, and other cutting-edge topics. Participants learn to implement effective strategies for data-driven decision-making, digital citizenship, and culturally responsive leadership, preparing them to lead schools that meet today's high standards.
Practical Activities
Our Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree) offers valuable interactive experiences to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. Central to this is the AEP 879 Practicum, where students gain real-world exposure to school administration tasks, such as personnel evaluation, budgeting, and conflict resolution.
These immersive experiences are vital for participants who wish to build confidence and competency in managing day-to-day operations within a school. Additional practical activities, including collaborative projects and scenario-based exercises, enrich the program further, helping students to refine their leadership style and approach.
What You’ll Learn:
- School mission and vision development
- Professional norms in school settings
- Data-driven school culture assessment
- Technological integration in curricula
- Family engagement for student success
How You’ll Learn:
- Online coursework
- Practical exercises and fieldwork
- Collaborative projects with peers
- Engagement with real-world scenarios
- Expert faculty guidance
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Related programs provide additional pathways for professional growth and specialization in educational leadership. Whether you want to pursue a degree in education administration or obtain further endorsements, our related programs offer diverse opportunities to enhance your expertise and career prospects. Fort Hays State University provides several associated programs that may interest prospective students:
- M.S. in Education Administration
- M.S. in Special Education (Gifted)
- M.S. in Special Education (High Incidence)
- M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence)
- M.S. in Instructional Technology
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership)
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.