University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The programme blends core coursework in educational leadership with applied courses and a research component. Typical topics include leadership theory and ethical practice, educational policy and governance, school law and legislation, human resource management for schools, budgeting and finance for education, strategic planning and change management, and issues in equity, diversity and Indigenous education. Students also study research design and methods relevant to educational contexts and complete a capstone requirement, which may be a practicum/administrative internship, a major research project or a thesis depending on the stream chosen.

• Leadership and organisational theory — leadership models, distributed leadership, culture and school improvement.
• Policy, governance and law — provincial education systems, school board roles, legal responsibilities and safe schools.
• Human resources and labour relations — staffing, performance evaluation, collective agreements and conflict resolution.
• Finance and resource management — school budgeting, resource allocation and facilities planning.
• Research methods — qualitative and quantitative methods, program evaluation and data‑informed decision making.
• Contextual studies — rural and northern education, Indigenous ways of knowing, community engagement and reconciliation.
• Practicum or capstone — supervised administrative placement or a substantial research project addressing a practical leadership problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in education or a related discipline and to be certified or licenced teachers where applicable. Relevant professional experience in a classroom or educational setting is typically required, and applicants often need to demonstrate leadership potential through employment history or supervisory experience. Admission materials generally include academic transcripts, a statement of intent describing professional goals and leadership interests, a current curriculum vitae, and letters of reference. Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview. Specific minimum academic thresholds, English language requirements and documentation are published by the university and should be consulted before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a range of leadership positions within school systems and related organisations. Common career outcomes include appointment as vice‑principal or principal, roles in district administration such as curriculum coordinator or superintendent‑level positions, and positions in school improvement or instructional leadership. Graduates also work as policy analysts, educational consultants, leaders in Indigenous education organisations, and directors of professional development. The programme equips candidates with skills to lead school improvement initiatives, manage resources and staff, and contribute to policy and community partnerships.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan’s College of Education is embedded in a province with diverse rural, northern and Indigenous schooling contexts, offering opportunities to study leadership in settings that reflect a broad range of educational realities. The college emphasises research‑informed practice and collaborations with local school divisions, allowing students to access supervised practicum placements and community partnerships. Faculty research strengths include educational leadership, policy, Indigenous education and rural schooling, providing a supportive environment for applied research and leadership development. Students benefit from campus resources, professional networks across Saskatchewan school systems, and opportunities to engage with initiatives focused on equity and reconciliation in education.