Educational Leadership degrees in California are becoming increasingly more important as the importance of education in the state, as well as throughout the country, gains more focus. California is the most populous state in the country, which means it also has the most school children of any other state as well. Education in California has historically lagged behind other states, despite the progressive nature of its citizens. In teaching staff expenditure per student, California ranked 49th according to a 2006 study.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University began in 1899, becoming the first Christian College on the West Coast. The Training School for Christian Workers prepared men and women for ministry and service. The school opened in a home in Whittier, California, growing to an enrollment of 12 by the first term. The school relocated and changed leadership several times before merging with three Southern California colleges and relocating to Azusa in 1946, where it exists today. The school offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, but are still committed to the original vision of God First. The school has been ranked as one of America’s Best Colleges by the U.S. News and World Report and as one of the best Western colleges by the Princeton Review.
Featured Programs
School of Education
The School of Education at Azusa equips teachers and administrators for leadership roles in the education community. The school offers 26 education degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. There are also specialty degrees in Special Education, School Psychology, Physical Education and Educational Technology. The college consists of three departments and prepares students to meet the educational needs of students at a variety of levels.
Educational Leadership, M.A.
Aszusa Pacific offers a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership that prepares students to serve as administrators in an educational setting. Graduates gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work as principals, teacher leaders, curriculum developers and department chairs in the Pre-K through 12 setting. The program is aligned with California Professional Standards for Educational Leaders, and many of the faculty are working professionals in the education setting. In addition to the education curriculum, students are taught with the tenets of Christian faith. Students must provide official transcripts from each college or university they attended and provide documentation that they hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Students must have a 3.0 GPA in baccalaureate studies, and provide three recommendation letters. Students must also write a letter to the dean of the college describing their educational goals, both long-term and short-term. A resume showing at least three years of full-time service in the education field is also required.
Accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Commission on Teacher Credentialing
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Contact
Asuza Pacific University
901 East Alosta Avenue
PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000
Telephone: 626-969-3434
Email: gpc@apu.edu
Website
Cal Poly
In 1901, local journalist, Myron Angel, lobbied the California legislature to approve a school in San Luis Obispo. Legislation was signed in March of that year, and the first classes began in 1903. The school began as a co-educational vocational high school. In 1915-16, compulsory military training was instituted and enrollment dropped during the 1916-17 school year as students enlisted to fight during World War I. In 1930, women were excluded from attendance, and the institution struggled to remain open due to lack of enrollment and funding. In 1938, Charles and Jerry Voorhis donated their Southern California ranch, valued at a million dollars, for use as a horticulture training center. Cal Poly developed the “Rosie the Riveter” training program in preparation for World War II, and established Navy pre-flight training in 1942. Enrollment grew rapidly after World War II as veterans took advantage of the G.I. Bill, which included funding for on-campus housing. Married veterans were able to live on campus in what became known as Vetville, the married student village.
In 1949, cereal tycoon W.K. Kellogg donated his Arabian horse ranch to the college, creating two campuses for the university. The Tournament of Roses parade was introduced by the university, and women were admitted in 1956. In 1960, a plane carrying the Cal Poly football team crashed. Sixteen players, a student manager, a member of the Booster Club and four others were killed in the crash with another 22 people injured. Cal Poly has been ranked as one of the best colleges in the West by U.S. News and World Report for 21 consecutive years.
School of Education
The School of Education at Cal Poly offers credential programs in elementary and secondary teach as well as educational administration. Students may choose from Multiple Subject Credential Programs, Single Subject Credential Programs, Education Specialist Program and Administrative Services Programs. Both the Educational Specialist and Administrative Services Program can be completed as an integrated masters and credential program.
Educational Leadership and Administration
Cal Poly’s School of Education offers a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership in Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership and Administration. The program is designed primarily for leaders in K-12 education, the program is beneficial for leaders in other fields, including sports administration, teacher leadership higher education and nonprofit leadership. Curriculum focuses on theories of educational leadership and mastery of practical skills that are necessary for school leadership and administration. Candidates who meet the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing Standards can earn the California Preliminary Administrative Services Credential upon completion of the program. To qualify for the credentialing program, students must hold a valid California teaching/service ecredential with five years of full-time teaching experience. Three of the quarters of the program include fieldwork.
Students must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and a 3.0 GPA in at least 90 quarter units of university studies. Three letters of recommendation and a current resume are also required. Prospective candidates must also complete questionnaires provided by Cal Poly. Those who are seeking credentialing must provide a valid teaching/service credential, proof of five-years of teaching experience, evidence that they have passed the Basic Skills Requirement and a letter of support from an employing district if seeking the Administrative Services Internship Program.
Accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Academic Programs Office
Cal Poly
Administration Building, Room 315
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
Telephone: 805-756-2246
Email: acadprog@calpoly.edu
Website
California Coast University
California Coast University was founded I 1973 in order to meet the needs of professionals with geographic, personal or professional limitations to furthering their education. Originally, the school planned to offer distance learning for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and that goal continues today as the university supports new generations of students with barriers to continuing education. The university has been named as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media. In addition, the school offers a ten percent discount to Active Duty Military, Reservists and Veterans to further encourage their continuing education efforts.
School of Education
The School of Education at California Coast University understands that today’s educator faces multi-faceted issues and that administrating education today requires an ability to not only understand those issues, but apply problem solving methods to resolve them in the educational setting. The college offers distance learning programs with a demonstrated record of success in helping students achieve their educational goals.
Ed.D. – Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
California Coast University offer a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership that provides the knowledge and skills necessary to address the multi-faceted nature of educational institutions. It is a self-paced learning program that is completed off-campus. The program is not structured into semesters, quarters or terms and it is designed so students can begin at any time of the year. Students must have earned a Master’s Degree in Education or in another field as long as it is approved by the Admissions Committee. Completion of five prerequisite courses, including:
- Models of Teaching
- School and Community Relations
- Leadership and Technology
- Public Policy
- Legal Aspects of Education
Accreditation
Accrediting Commission of the Distance Learning and Training Council
Contact
California Coast University
925 North Spurgeon Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Telephone: 888-228-8648
Email: info@calcoast.edu
Website
California State University
California State University began as Minns Evening Normal School, which was dedicated to educating teachers for professions at the high school level. In 1862, the school was taken over by the state and moved from San Francisco to San Jose, becoming the California State Normal School. Eventually, the school became San Jose State University. In 1919, the majority of California’s normal schools were renamed State Teachers Colleges until 1935, when they were upgraded to State Colleges with a four-year curriculum. In 1972, the schools became the California State University, which today exists on 23 campuses, serving 447,000 students.
Masters in Educational Administration and/or Preliminary Administrative Credential (Tier I)
Students who apply for the Masters in Educational Administration at California State University are already employed in the Pre-K to 12 educational setting or hold a California Teaching Credential. Students from outside the United States who want to develop their skills as leaders may also apply for the program. Students may choose the Online/Hybrid Program, which includes three Saturday classes per semester and all other classes conducted online. They may also choose the traditional face-to-face classroom method, which meets weekly. Students must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and a GPA of 3.0. Students must provide official transcripts from any college or university attended and verification they have taken the CBEST. Candidates must have five years of teaching experience and must submit a Candidate Portfolio that must include an application, resume, three recommendations, Notice to District Superintendent form and an essay.
Accreditation
Senior College Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Educational Leadership Department
California State University
2600 Nutwood Avenue, Suite 520
Fullerton, CA 92831
Telephone: 657-278-4023
Website
Fielding Graduate University
In 1974, three distinguished administrators and educators in higher education founded Fielding Graduate university to provide a nationally recognized graduate school that served mid-level professionals who could not get their continuing education needs met through traditional methods. The founders realized that changing demographics were altering higher education and that adults learn in different ways than young adults and teens. Frederic Hudson, Hallock Hoffman and Renata Tesch worked together to develop a university that would meet the needs of a changing demographic. The campus opened at La Casa de Maria with retreats, meetings and graduations held in a quiet setting beginning in 1977.
In 1982, the university acquired the Hodges Mansion, which is a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival mansion. The college renovated the building based on the designs of architect, Deming Isaacson and the interior was designed by John Houchen. In 2001, the college changed its name to Fielding Graduate Institute to demonstrate their focus, and became Fielding Graduate University in 2005.
School of Educational Leadership for Change
The School of Educational Leadership for Change creates leaders in education who are agents of change in their own communities. Students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to understand, evaluate and change conditions related to social and ecological injustice. Programs focus on diverse life experiences, learning styles and address the complex scheduling problems that face adult professionals.
Master of Arts in Collaborative Educational Leadership
The Master’s Degree in Collaborative Educational Leadership helps students develop leadership techniques that create effective change in the classroom. Students gain expertise in addressing the needs of under-served populations to help close the achievement gap. The curriculum focuses on leadership theory, research and best practices through online and face-to-face coursework. Students must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited college or university and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5. Students must provide a resume, official transcripts and a statement of purpose in order to be considered for the program.
Accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Fielding Graduate University
2020 De la Vina Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93105-3814
Telephone: 800-340-1099
Email: MACELadmission@fielding.edu
Website
Saint Mary’s College of California
Saint Mary’s College of California is one of the oldest colleges in the West, founded in 1863 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese as a college for boys. It was originally located in San Francisco. Day students paid $60 per year for tuition, while boarders paid $250, which included laundry service. Boarding students rose at 6 AM and lights out was at 8:30 PM with set study, class, prayer, meal and recreation time scheduled throughout the day.
In 1889, the campus moved to the corner of 30th and Broadway in Oakland into what was affectionately called “The Brickpile.” In 1928, the college moved to their current location, and eleven of the original buildings, including the Chapel, Dante Hall and Galileo Hall, are still in use today. A familiar landmark “La Cruz de la Victoria” or the Cross of Victory, came to the college in 1936, and hiking to the cross has become a common activity. Today, there are more than 3,000 students attending Saint Mary’s in undergraduate and graduate programs.
Kalmanovitz School of Education
The Kalmanovitz School of Education at Saint Mary’s has been offering educational training to students for more than 40 years. The school offers an intimate, collaborative educational experience with a dedicated faculty. The school is named for Paul Kalmanovitz, owner of the Falstaff and Pabst Brewing Companies. Mr. Kalmanovitz left a sizable portion of this $250 million estate to fund hospital and education projects.
Educational Leadership
The Educational Leadership program at the Kalmanovitz School of Education prepares professionals to meet educational challenges in a changing society. Students develop leadership skills through collaboration with staff and members of the community, learning to confront ethical decisions. Students engage in critical discussion and study in education, learning about the relationship of education to a thriving society. The program offers flexible class schedules that include weekend and online courses, providing a sensitivity to adult learning styles.
Accreditation
Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Saint Mary’s College of California
Office of Admissions
PO Box 4800
Moraga, CA 94575
Telephone: 800-800-4SMC (4762)
Email: smcadmit@stmarys-ca.edu
Website
San Diego State University
San Diego State University, like many universities in the United States, began as the San Diego Normal School, dedicated to training elementary school teachers. The school began holding classes over a downtown drugstore until a new campus could be constructed on Park Boulevard. Initially, the curriculum included only English, history and mathematics, but, between 1910 and 1935, major changes came to the college as new subjects were added. The college name changed to San Diego State Teachers College in 1921. The changes to the curriculum caused enrollment to increase, and, in 1931, the college moved into seven Mission-style buildings surrounding a common area that is still known as The Quad. In 1970, the college became San Diego State University, and today has more than 80,000 students enrolled.
College of Education
The College of Education at San Diego State offers a wide variety of programs designed to train students who are seeking a career in education. The school has a commitment to prepare teachers, school administrators and other professionals for careers in the education community. Curriculum focuses on closing the achievement gap, development of a culture of inquiry and to create students who are globally aware of the importance of education in today’s society.
Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership
The Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership at San Diego State is intended for students who seek employment at colleges and universities. Graduates develop the skills necessary to deliver and assess programs in a wide range of institutional areas, including:
- Enrollment
- Financial Aid
- Training and Development
Graduates have also found success in governmental and non-profit agencies.
Masters of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership with a Specialization in Student Affairs
The Master of Arts in Postsecondary Educational Leadership specializing in Student Affairs is designed for the student who seeks positions in colleges or universities dealing directly with matters that affect students. Graduates develop the skills and knowledge to assist students in:
- Admissions
- Academic Advising
- Campus Life
- Career Services
- Multicultural Affairs
- New Student Orientation
- Residential Education
- Study Abroad Programs
For both Educational Leadership degree programs, students must submit official transcripts and test scores to the Graduate Admissions Office.
Accreditation
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
ARPE/Interwork Institute
San Diego State University
Campus Location: EBA 246
5500 Camapnile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-1127
Telephone: 619-594-6115
Email: mbrescia@mail.sdsu.edu
Website
University of California
When the state of California ratified their constitution in 1849, it included a stipulation to develop a complete educational system that included a state university. In 1866, using the Morill Land Grant Act, the state established the Agricultural, Mining and Mechanical Arts College. In 1853, Henry Durant, a Congregational minister, had established Contra Costa Academy, a private institution, in Oakland. The private college was granted a charter for the College of California in 1855, and the college purchased 160 acres of land in what is now Berkeley to establish a homestead in 1866. The homestead sales did not succeed in raising the funding necessary for the college, however. In 1867, Governor Frederick Low proposed merging the College of California with the agricultural school. Reluctantly, the College of California agreed, but with the stipulation that the school be a full university, and the University of California was established in 1868.
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of California is designed to enable professionals working in the education field to participate in a research-based program while continuing their employment. The program is designed to educate students on the issues of social justice that exist in education and to use the strengths learned to identify and build on the strengths of others. Students explore cutting-edge research and practices in order to learn processes to design and lead the future of education, rather than focusing on the outdated 19th century model used today. Students must have a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate studies and must provide transcripts from all universities or colleges attended. Students must submit three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose, as well a resume and GRE scores.
Accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
EDS
University of California
9500 Gilman Drive
Mail Code: 0070
La Jolla, CA 92093-00770
Telephone: 858-534-1680
Email: edsinfo@ucsd.edu
Website
University of La Verne
The University of La Verne was founded as Lordsburg College in 1891 by members of the Church of the Brethren who had migrated west. In 1917, the community surrounding the college was renamed La Verne, causing the school to change their name to match that of the community. In the 1920s and 1930s, the school primarily educated teachers. Over the next 30 years, the Board of Trustees separated from the church and the student body became more diverse. In 1977, the college reorganized as the University of La Verne, adding an Orange County campus in 1981 and a San Fernando Valley campus in 1983. Ventura and San Bernadino campuses were added later, as was a College of Law in Ontario. The Central Coast, Kern County and High Desert campuses were the last of La Verne’s to open.
Educational Leadership, M.Ed.
The Educational Leadership Master’s degree at La Verne prepares students for careers in advanced positions in education. Students may qualify for the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential through four options:
- Obtain both the Master’s degree and credential through 33 semester hours of coursework
- Obtain only the credential through 24 semester hours
- Obtain either the degree or the credential through an internship
- Obtain the Master’s degree only through 33 semester hours
Accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
Contacts
University of La Verne
1950 Third Street
La Verne, CA 91750
Telephone: 909-593-3511
Website
As the state of California works toward improving the public education system in the state, particularly the graduation rate, there will be a growing need for educational leadership degree holders. Therefore, obtaining an educational leadership degree in California can open up significant job opportunities and provide an excellent chance for advancement.