K-12 Principal Certification

Become a school leader who makes a positive impact across their entire school community.

Our online graduate certificate offers an accelerated pathway for aspiring principals (e.g. current teachers, school counselors, curriculum directors) and meets all principal certification requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The program develops your principal leadership skills and prepares to be a school leader who strives to improve the lives of children, families, and local communities.

Students completing this program have the option of earning a Master of Education in Education Leadership for an additional 12 credits.

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Program Facts

Degree Type

Graduate Certificate

Enrollment Term

Fall, Spring, or Summer

Format

Online

Credits

Application Deadline

Rolling Admissions

Program Duration

Three terms (Summer, Fall, and Spring)

Program Overview

The K-12 Principal Certificate is an 18-credit graduate certificate that develops educational leaders of character who are inspired by a sense of equity and justice to improve learning experiences for all students.

Online Classes

The certificate is offered 100% online in an asynchronous format. You never have to log on for a live lecture and can complete courses on your own time.

Principal Certification

Our program is fully aligned with the Pennsylvania Department of Education standards for principal certification.

Work-Life Balance

Designed for working educators, the program offers one course at a time in seven-week increments. This ensures students can fit the program into their busy lives.

Acclaimed Faculty

Courses are taught by faculty who have experience in administrative school leadership as principals and superintendents. The program coordinator is Dr. Tom Ralston, former superintendent of Avonworth School District.

Career Advancement

For many students, the K-12 Principal certification results in a higher salary while providing a pathway to someday become a superintendent.

Internship Experience

Based on state certification guidelines, students complete a 360-hour field based experience that includes a 180-hour internship experience and 180 hours of professional development.

Networking Strength

Bolster your education with optional professional development experiences that draw on the strength of Pitt’s global alumni network. Students can complete mock interviews with superintendents and exclusive networking events with the Tri-State Area School Study Council and the Forum for Western Pennsylvania School Superintendents

"This program completely redefined my career. It was the right choice to open different educational advancement endeavors."
Pharlan Ives - Assistant Principal, South Fayette School District

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Prerequisites

Teaching certificate or other qualification from Pennsylvania Department of Education guidelines
Minimum of two years teaching or professional school experience

Curriculum

The K-12 Principal Certificate is an 18-credit, online graduate certificate that can be completed in as a little as one year.

Through courses in instructional and institutional leadership, school law, mental health and safety, and systemwide support systems, you will receive a well-rounded education that prepares you to lead as a principal across all types of school environments.