This is an archived copy of the 2016-2017 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.valdosta.edu.

The performance-based certification non-degree program offers candidates the opportunity to become certified in performance-based leadership (PL 6 or 7) at the building level or system level.

Admission Deadlines

  • Fall Deadline: July 15
  • Spring Deadline: November 15
  • Summer Deadline: April 15

To pursue the Certificate in Educational Leadership, applicants must hold a specialist’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited or GaPSC approved institution and currently serve in a leadership role as defined by their school system.

Go to the Graduate School website  and click on Our Programs, then click on Certification in Educational Leadership Program for information on:

  • Specific Certification in Ed Leadership Admission Requirements
  • Certification in Ed. Leadership Program Graduation Requirements

To Apply Online, click here .

Requirements for Certification in Educational Leadership

Leadership Courses6
Select two of the following:6
Leadership for Creating an Effective Learning Environment
School Culture, Change and Organizational Dynamics
Building Leadership for the 21st Century
Executive Leadership for the 21st Century
Leading a Professional Learning Community
Coaching and Mentoring for High-Performing Schools
Financing and Managing Educational Facilities
Managing Resources for School Improvement
Directed Study in Educational Leadership
Advanced Research Methodology (or the equivalent)
The faculty advisor will collaborate with candidates and school system partners to identify appropriate courses based on the candidates’ other graduate-level coursework and professional knowledge and skills.
Field-Experience Activities18
LEAD 8920Advanced Leadership Field-Based Experiences I6
LEAD 8930Advanced Leadership Field-Based Experiences II6
LEAD 8940Advanced Leadership Field-Based Experiences III6
The above field-based activities must be conducted at either the building level or system level. The two options (building or system) are differentiated by the performance component–the level at which the residency is completed.
Total Hours24

Other Program Requirements

Prior to conducting performance-based activities, a candidate must meet the GaPSC pre-service requirement for performance-based leadership preparation by holding a clear/renewable Leadership (L) Certificate at the master’s level or higher or meet one of the following criteria:

  1. holding a master’s degree in educational leadership or
  2. completing LEAD 7020 and LEAD 7420 or their equivalent as determined by a review of all past graduate-level coursework

Candidates who are PL-certified may add the other leadership level (building or school system) by being assigned to a leadership role or position at the other level and then completing the program requirements (including the appropriate performances) for that level. Only the elements that specifically pertain to the level not previously completed (building or school system level) are required for adding the other new leadership level. This addition may be accomplished by completing an additional 6 credit hour residency (LEAD 8950).

Additional Certification Requirements

Prior to being recommended for a clear/renewable Georgia leadership certificate, a candidate must meet the GaPSC Special Requirements (PSC Rule 505-2-20)–Identification and Education of Children with Special Needs–and pass the GACE Educational Leadership Content Assessment (Test code: 173 & 174).

  • Certification in Library Media (Certification Only)

  • Certificate in Online Teaching