Point Park University

What you'll study

This programme combines coursework in leadership theory, curriculum and instruction, personnel supervision, school law and finance, and data-driven decision making. Students study topics such as instructional leadership, curriculum development, assessment and evaluation, school improvement planning, organisational behaviour, legal and ethical issues in education, educational finance and budgeting, and supervision of staff. Coursework typically culminates in a practicum or internship in a school leadership setting and a capstone project or applied research thesis that addresses a real-world administrative challenge.

• Core modules — Instructional Leadership; Supervision of Teaching and Learning; Curriculum Design and Assessment; Educational Law and Policy.
• Administration and management — School Finance and Resource Management; Human Resources and Personnel Supervision; Organisational Leadership in Education.
• Data and improvement — Data-Informed Decision Making; School Improvement and Strategic Planning; Equity and Cultural Responsiveness in Leadership.
• Experience-based learning — Administrative practicum/field experience in a school or district setting; capstone or action research project addressing a leadership challenge.

Programme structure

The programme is delivered through a mix of seminars, case studies, structured field experiences and practicum placements. Depending on the student’s background and enrolment pattern, the degree can be completed through full-time or part-time study; some courses may be offered in evening or hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Professional experience in education; many students hold or are pursuing teacher certification or equivalent teaching licensure.
• Competitive cumulative undergraduate GPA (programs commonly expect around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though exceptions may be considered).
• Application materials, typically including a current résumé, a personal statement describing leadership goals, and professional references.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or submit additional writing samples; prior supervisory experience can strengthen an application.
• Applicants seeking administrative certification should confirm state-specific certification requirements with the university, as additional coursework or practicum hours may be required for licensure in particular states.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of leadership roles within K–12 education and related organisations. Typical career paths include assistant principal, principal, curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, director of curriculum and instruction, school improvement specialist, and district-level administrator. Skills gained in the programme are also applicable to roles in educational non-profits, community education agencies, professional development organisations and corporate training departments. The practicum and capstone provide practical experience that enhances employability in leadership positions.

Why study at Point Park University

• Point Park’s location in downtown Pittsburgh offers access to diverse school districts and community partnerships for practicum placements and local networking.
• The programme emphasises applied, practice-based learning led by faculty with experience in school leadership, supervision and curriculum development.
• Small cohort sizes support personalised mentoring, peer collaboration and opportunities for leadership skill development through hands-on field experiences.
• Flexible scheduling, including evening and hybrid course options, is designed to accommodate working educators pursuing advancement while employed.
• Students can leverage the university’s professional networks in the Pittsburgh region for internships, job placement support and continuing professional development.