District Administrator License

Becoming a school superintendent is not just a career choice; it's a pivotal role that shapes the future of education and communities. As the visionary leader of a school district, the superintendent bears the responsibility of ensuring academic excellence, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and empowering educators to inspire and uplift every student.

About the Program

Kathy Kramer - Ed Leadership - District Administrator
Ed Leadership - District Admistrator License - Center for Graduate Studies

This 16-month program begins each fall for aspiring superintendents. Courses are taught in a hybrid format with asynchronous onlne requirments and once per month in-person meetings on weekends, to accommodate working professionals. Candidates are eligible to apply for the District Administrator license upon completion of the program.

Curriculum (21 Credits)

Year 1 | Fall
LEA 8303: Leading from Within: A Journey of Self Discovery and Leadership Potential (3 credits)
LEA 8701: Advanced Leadership - The Superintendency I (3 credits)*
 
Year 1 | Spring
LEA 8304: Ethical Leadership (3 credits)
LEA 8702: Educational Law (2 credits)*
 
Year 1 | Summer
LEA 8401: Organizational Development and Learning (3 credits)
LEA 8502: Budget Development and Finance (3 credits)
LEA 8703: Advanced Leadership - The Superintendency II (2 credits)*
 
Year 2 | Fall
LEA 8402: Leading a Learning Organization (3 credits)
** PhD candidates pursuing the District Administrator license will take these courses in addition to their PhD sequence.

Visit our catalog to learn more about each course.


Cost

  • $905 per credit
  • No additional program fees.


Cohort Meeting Dates for 2026-27

Cohort Meeting Dates

Application Process

STEP 1: Submit the Graduate Studies Application

STEP 2: Complete and submit the following within the application status portal after submission of your application:

  1. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  2. Two Professional References
  3. Official Post-Secondary Transcripts - From all institutions attended

                               Carroll University
                               Office of Admission
                               100 N. East Avenue
                               Waukesha, WI 53186

Academic Requirements

  • Qualified candidates must hold a valid Wisconsin #5051 Principal License to be admitted.
  • Masters Degree

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Practicum Experiences  

The District Administrator program requires that candidates successfully complete an 80 hour practicum in two 40 hour segments. Practicums are designed to guide candidates as they apply course concepts in the field. The practicums allow candidates to be apprenticed into the field as they work alongside a mentor administrator. Candidates focus on issues related to leadership and develop a realistic perspective of the demands, needs, and challenges that face administrators in the educational environment.

Faculty

Master's of Educational Leadership

If you aspire to be a District Administrator, and don't currently hold a Principal license, the MS in Educational Leadership is your first step. Carroll’s Educational Leadership Programs provide opportunities for future PK-12 educators to become transformative leaders.

Learn More

Do you have questions aboutGraduate Programs in Education?

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