THREE MASTER'S DEGREE OPTIONS
Each of the three options for earning a master's degree in school leadership is deliberately designed to prepare educators with classroom experience to be thoughtful and effective schools leaders at independent and international schools. Based on your goals and your circumstances, you can select the program that best fits your needs. Alumni of all programs go on to rewarding careers as heads of schools, senior administrators, deans, division heads, department chairs, and teacher-leaders.
PROGRAM DETAILS
- The Full-Year Master's Degree Program is a full-time program that lasts from September to May during a single academic year - the fastest way to earn your degree. Give yourself the gift of deep immersion in the academic environment of Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City. Take courses that balance theory and practice to build the skills and mindsets for authentic leadership. This program is paused for 2026-2027.
- The Two-Summers Master's Degree Program lasts 6 semesters over two academic years and requires employment in an independent or international school while enrolled. Intensive coursework at Teachers College in each of two summers is paired with research and project-based learning at your school of employment during the academic year after each of the two summers. The next cohort begins in summer of 2026. Applications are open!
- The MA/MBA Dual Degree pairs an MBA from Columbia Business School or INSEAD with one of the two master's programs above. Students at Columbia Business School may complete the MBA portion of the dual-degree in 3 semesters instead of the four semesters required for a standalone MBA. Students at INSEAD complete the program in one year and receive a significant tuition discount.
OVERVIEW COMPARISON
Both the Full-Year and Two-Summers Master's Programs have coursework in curriculum and cognitive development, education leadership, philosophy and ethics, research, law, marketing, and school finance. Each program also includes a practicum and a capstone project. The Full-Year Program allows you to be a full-time student with time to focus on a immersive intellectual experience and to enjoy New York City. The Two-Summers Program allows you to maintain your current employment while pursuing your degree during intensive summer sessions and school-year projects. Each of the two options can be combined with an MBA through our dual-degree program.
