Lead with Purpose
At the UNC School of Education, we know strong schools begin with strong leadership. Our Master of School Administration program prepares experienced educators to become the kind of leaders schools need — principals equipped to respond to student and community needs with intention, inspire excellence among students and staff, and foster effective learning communities.
Designed for Working Educators
Our two-year MSA program is designed with working professionals in mind. Through our hybrid, flexible — hyflex — model, which combines online and in-person learning, our students are able to remain in their current roles while gaining the tools to lead schools forward. From the first semester, our students build a foundation in instructional leadership, cultural responsiveness, organizational management, and systems-level change — while also building strong professional connections with their fellow MSA cohort members. Then, they apply those skills directly through a full- or part-time administrative internship, serving as assistant principals alongside highly effective school leaders.
Pathway to Licensure
Upon completion of the program, our graduates are eligible for licensure as a K–12 principal from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and qualified for principal licensure in most states.
A Community of Leaders
Our MSA program is more than a path to a degree — it’s an investment for educators called to lead school communities effectively and with purpose. Our MSA students join an experienced, mission-driven cohort of educators committed to making schools better for students, families, and communities. With the mentorship of award-winning faculty and the support of a collaborative learning environment, our students graduate ready to take their next professional step with clarity, courage, and a vision for what is possible in public education.