The next priority application deadline is November 1, 2026.
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K-12 Educational Leadership School Building or District Leader Certification
Generous Scholarships Available
Fully Online Option
Start Any Semester
Now more than ever, schools need capable, visionary administrators to lead increasingly diverse schools in our ever-changing world. As a school or district leader, you’ll not only be able to impact the students you currently serve, but entire schools and districts as well.
Warner will prepare you to become an agent of change and make a lasting impact on future generations. We can offer the shortest path to New York certifications and are the most affordable in the region thanks to our designated leader scholarships.
Key Program Features
- Fast, Affordable Pathway: One of the shortest pathways to New York certification and is among the most affordable options in the region, thanks to the Designated Leader Scholarship, providing up to 65% tuition reduction. No additional mandatory student fees apply, except the health fee for full-time students.
- Timely Completion: Complete the 27-credit advanced certificate (SBL and SDL) in as little as 18–24 months. Rolling admissions allow you to apply at any time and begin the program in any semester.
- Flexible Format and Course Scheduling: Take courses in a flexible sequence and format, with course offerings available in fall, spring, and summer. Choose the schedule and delivery options that best fit your needs.
- Practical Program Value and Connections: Coursework emphasizes real-world applications of leadership skills, supported by faculty with relevant K-12 experience. Connect with an alumni network of more than 300 graduates working throughout the region.
- Minimum Required Coursework: Complete seven leadership courses to meet program requirements (one less if pursuing only school building or school district leader certification).
- Fully Online Option: Complete the program fully online at a distance, or by taking a combination of online and in-person courses that meet visa requirements for international students. View expectations and FAQ for online options.
- Comprehensive Course Selection for School District Leader: If needed, there are many options (including online courses) to help you meet the state requirement of 60 graduate credits to apply.
- Combined Internship: Complete a 600-hour administrative internship with experiences at both the school building and district levels. The internship can be completed within your own district.
Prerequisite (as required by NYS)
- A minimum of three years of teaching or other pupil-services experience in a K-12 school setting.
Scholarships, Tuition & Financial Aid
Designated Leader Scholarships covering up to 65% of tuition costs
Partnerships and Career Pathways
Questions?
Certificate of Advanced Study
Shortest path to certification, requiring as little as 27 credits for both school building and school district leaders.
Get a Certificate with a Master’s
Ideal if you are interested in a master’s credential or eligibility for student loans; requires a minimum of 36 credits (some transferable from previous graduate programs).
Get a jump start
Teachers seeking professional teaching certification can use electives from their certification program to take several of the required leadership courses.
Customize Your Degree
Our degrees are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to add an advanced certificate or specialize in a distinct area of emphasis, we can help craft the best option for you.
Ready to Apply?
The next priority application deadline is November 1, 2026.
Career Opportunities
- Graduates from our K-12 school leadership programs are eligible for most administrative positions in K-12 schools.
- In New York State, School Building Leader certification is required to be appointed to any administrative position at the building level, such as assistant principal, or principal, to name a few.
- School District Leader certification is required for administrative positions at the district level, such as such as coordinator or director in any specific area, assistant superintendent for instruction, or superintendent.
- New York State administrative certifications are recognized in most other states.
Program Director
Patricia Vaughan-Brogan
Associate Professor, Director of the K-12 School Leadership Program
Erin Anderson
K-12 school and district improvement, leadership practices, and educator well-being
Brian Brent
School finance, fiscal policy, and decision-making
Andrea Cutt
Leadership & organizational dynamics and curriculum & instructional leadership
Karen DeAngelis
Decision-making, educational policy, and quantitative research methods
Nahoko Kawakyu O'Connor
Program evaluation
Patrick McCue
Equitable grading and instructional practices
Shaun Nelms
University-district partnerships, school transformation, and urban education
Manuel Rivera
School district leadership, politics of education, and policy
Stephen Uebbing
K-12 leadership and education decision-making
Take a Course Before You Apply
Take a course before you apply to one of our programs for a discounted price. Inquire with admissions to learn about credits that also apply toward degree requirements.
Related Advanced Certificates
Minimum additional credits required.