The Master of School Administration (MSA) program prepares experienced educators to become licensed K–12 principals through a two‑year, cohort‑based program that combines coursework with real‑world leadership experience.
Students in the MSA program will learn how to lead K–12 schools effectively, including instructional leadership, school operations, and using data to inform decisions. The program also focuses on supporting teachers, engaging families, and responding to the needs of students and communities.
The program is designed for experienced educators — teachers, school counselors, and other licensed school‑based professionals — who are ready to take the next step in their careers by pursuing North Carolina School Administrator Principal License.
The MSA is delivered in a hyflex format that blends online and in‑person learning to support working educators across North Carolina.
Hyflex learning combines online and in‑person instruction, allowing students to balance coursework with their professional responsibilities. Courses are offered in concentrated six‑week blocks on Wednesday evenings (online) and select Saturdays (online and in person).
The MSA is a two‑year program.
Yes. Applicants must have at least four years of experience as a licensed professional educator, such as a teacher, school counselor, or other school‑based role.
Yes. The program includes a full‑time or part‑time administrative internship, where students serve as assistant principals alongside experienced school leaders.
Internships take place in K–12 public schools across North Carolina. Placements are designed to provide meaningful leadership experience and strong mentorship from effective administrators.
Graduates are recommended for the North Carolina School Administrator Principal License, qualifying them to serve as K–12 principals across the state.
Licensure requirements vary by state. While North Carolina licensure is widely recognized, candidates seeking positions elsewhere should review that state’s specific requirements.
Applications are typically due in March for a summer start. The School of Education provides step‑by‑step guidance on the “How to Apply” page.
Applicants submit an online application that includes transcripts, three letters of recommendation (including one from a supervisor), a statement of purpose, a résumé/CV, proof of licensure, and other required materials. Interviews with program faculty after initial application review are required. The School of Education provides step‑by‑step guidance on the “How to Apply” page.
GRE scores are optional for applicants to the MSA program. If submitted, scores must be valid within the last five years.
Yes. The program is intentionally designed for working educators, with hyflex coursework offered on evenings and select weekends. Many students remain in their current roles while completing the program.
Yes. International applicants are welcome. Students should review UNC Graduate School requirements for English proficiency, transcript evaluation, and visa documentation.
Many graduate students receive financial support directly through the School of Education or their academic program. In addition, The Graduate School offers a small number of competitive awards that require nomination by the program. To ensure programs have adequate time to review applicants for these opportunities, all application materials — including required uploads and test scores — must be submitted in full by the deadline.
Additional opportunities such as the North Carolina Principal Fellows Program may provide additional funding for nominated students.
The UNC School of Education is a partner institution in the North Carolina Principal Fellows Program, a statewide initiative that prepares highly effective, equity‑focused school leaders for North Carolina’s public schools. Through rigorous, cohort‑based preparation and strong partnerships with school districts, the program supports aspiring principals as they earn licensure and lead in the communities, they know best — particularly in high‑need schools across the state. Interested in becoming a Principal Fellow? Start locally — talk with your principal or district leaders about nomination through a partner district.
For questions about admissions, program requirements, or advising, contact the Office of Student Affairs at education_studentaffairs@unc.edu or attend an upcoming virtual information session.