MASTER OF EDUCATION IN INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP
The M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership program develops accomplished teachers who are reflective about their practice and who critically analyze what constitutes effective teaching and valuable learning. Teachers expand their instructional repertoires and master an expanding body of pedagogical knowledge while becoming deeply cognizant of the ethical and societal dimensions of education. Teachers will understand that they are part of a global village which embraces diversity. Teachers will draw on this knowledge to make principled judgments about their students and their instruction. Teachers will use and understand research and the role it plays in academic decisions and pedagogical practices. These teachers will also collaboratively engage students, parents, colleagues, and communities in educative pursuits which foster partnerships and life-long learning.
Student Learning Outcomes - Professional Education Core
- Implement learning-centric instructional strategies based on theoretical foundations.
- Utilize a learning-centric curriculum based on theoretical foundations.
- Use assessment data to monitor learning and inform decision-making.
- Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusivity.
- Serve as a leader informed by current trends and theoretical foundations.
- Conduct research to improve practice, empower communities, and serve others.
- Engage in critical reflection to drive professional growth.
- Integrate technology to facilitate learning through authentic, learner-driven activities.
Student Learning Outcomes - Classroom Teaching and Learning Option
- Apply motivation theories in learning and leadership environments.
- Demonstrate reflective teaching practices.
- Reflect on the impact of educational psychology as a tool for understanding the teaching and learning process
Student Learning Outcomes - National Board Option
- Create evidence for national certification
- Develop a National Board Certification plan
- Engage in research to improve practice
Student Learning Outcomes - Online Teaching and Learning Option
- Apply motivation theories in learning and leadership environments.
- Integrate research-based learning and assessment theory in the development and delivery of online instruction.
- Integrate best practice and standards in online course design and instruction
Student Learning Outcomes - Professional Enhancement Option
- Engage in research to improve practice
Student Learning Outcomes - Classroom Teaching and Learning Option
- Apply motivation theories in learning and leadership environments.
- Demonstrate reflective teaching practices.
- Reflect on the impact of educational psychology as a tool for understanding the teaching and learning process
Student Learning Outcomes - National Board Option
- Create evidence for national certification
- Develop a National Board Certification plan
- Engage in research to improve practice
Student Learning Outcomes - Online Teaching and Learning Option
- Apply motivation theories in learning and leadership environments.
- Integrate research-based learning and assessment theory in the development and delivery of online instruction.
- Integrate best practice and standards in online course design and instruction
Student Learning Outcomes - Professional Enhancement Option
- Engage in research to improve practice
Instructional Leadership, M.Ed. - 36 hours
Students will determine the option area with their graduate advisor’s approval.
Curriculum Specialization - 6 hours
In consultation with your faculty advisor, select 6 hours from the following or coursework as required by the State Department of Education to be eligible for or maintain certification (course selections must be approved by your advisor.)
Classroom Teaching - 9 hours (3816)
This option serves alternatively certified teachers currently teaching in a PK-12 environment.
National Board - 9 hours (3810)
This option serves candidates pursuing National Board Certification and is also available for teachers who hold National Board Certification and can mentor those seeking certification.
- EDUC 5430 - Seminar-Selected Topics
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Topic: National Board 1 (3 hours)
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Topic: National Board 2 (3 hours)
- EDUC 5730 - Directed Research (3 hours)
STEM Education Certificate Information
Students may complete the STEM Education Certificate as a part of the M.Ed. in Science Education, Mathematics Education, or Instructional Leadership: Professional Enhancement programs through guided course selection. Individuals interested in only earning the STEM certificate, but not currently enrolled in a graduate program at NSU, can apply for Graduate College admission for the purpose of pursuing the STEM certificate.
Degree Available At
- Online
Starting Your NSU Journey?
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Visit our Graduate College Checklist for more information.
Career Services
What Can I Do With A Master's Degree in Instructional Leadership?
- K-12 Teacher
- Instructional Coordinator
- Educational Consultant
- Curriculum Developer
- Private Education
- EPIC Schools
Program Chair:

Program Requirements
- Currently have or be eligible for OK Standard Teaching Certificate
- GPA of 3.0 or 3.25 in last 60 hours
Application Deadline
- Open Year Round
*Fees include: facility fee, student activity fee, infrastructure fee, cultural/scholastic lecturer fee, student ID fee, technology services fee and remedial course fee, if applicable. NSU courses taught at off campus locations or online might have additional fees assessed. These totals are tuition and fee estimations per program based on the current catalog year. Books, supplies and some fees may not be included.


