School Principal Certification Program

Drexel University School of Education - Online

With a School Prinicpal Certificate in Educational Administration focused on AI, innovative schools, curricular design, and systems thinking, you can lead transformative change in K-12 education as either a principal or assistant principal. Designing inclusive, future-ready learning environments and optimizing instructional systems through data-driven leadership, this degree equips you to shape schools that meet the demands of tomorrow. Graduates are prepared to implement cutting-edge technologies, foster collaborative school cultures, and lead with strategic vision in diverse educational settings.  

HOW TO BECOME A SCHOOL PRINCIPAL?

Drexel’s 24-credit School Principal Certification program prepares teachers to be leaders in schools who empower teachers and students to achieve optimal success. 

The Pennsylvania Administrative Certificate, Principal K–12, was designed to develop school leaders who can:

  • Build and lead high-performing teams that drive school improvement.
  • Solve complex educational challenges using systems thinking and data-informed decision-making.
  • Prepare students for an AI-drive future by integrating emerging technologies into instruction.
  • Create collaborative learning environments that support both teacher growth and student success.

Principal ​Certification ​Program ​Eligibility ​& Admission Requirements

The applicant’s transcripts and professional experiences are evaluated in relation to Pennsylvania state certification requirements. Applicants must meet be certified teachers or counselors and meet the general admissions requirements for graduate studies at Drexel University.

Candidates will be recommended for the PA Administrative Certificate, Principal K–12 upon successful completion of all course and Praxis requirements and upon verification of three years of satisfactory professional school experience on a state-issued certificate appropriate for the assignment.

Principal ​Certification ​Courses ​& Curriculum

Coursework requirements for the PA Administrative Certificate, Principal K–12 include 24 credits of specific pedagogy as outlined below. Students must achieve the grade of B or better in each graduate level course. The program can be completed in as little as one year, depending on your plan of study.

The online School Principal Certification curriculum and course descriptions may be viewed in the Drexel University Course Catalog

Principal Certification candidates are required to take the School Leaders Licensure Assessment exam, test code 6011 (computer-based only). PDE reserves the right to change the required Praxis Exam for Principal Certification. Please check PDE's website before registering for any exam required by PDE to ensure that your registration meets PDE's current requirements.

HOW TO APPLY TO THE PRINCIPAL CERTIFICATION PROGRAM?

Program Questions

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For questions about all School of Education academic programs, please contact enroll@drexel.edu.

CAEP Accredited Provider

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Drexel University's School of Education has earned national accreditation by demonstrating excellence in the areas of content and pedagogy, clinical experiences, selectivity, program impact, and capacity for continuous improvement from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.