How to Apply: MAED in Educational Leadership

MAED in Educational Leadership: School, Community & Higher Education Leadership – Non-Licensure Track

This pathway is designed for professionals working in school, community, and higher education leadership roles. A Professional Educator License (PEL) is not required for admission to this track.

To be eligible for the MAEd in Educational Leadership, candidates must meet the following criteria: 

  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • At least two years of full-time teaching or school/community leadership experience (or four years of recent part-time experience)
  • Statement of Purpose, resume, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation
  • PEL not required


MAED in Educational Leadership: ISBE Principal Endorsement (PK–22) Licensure Track

This pathway leads to the Illinois State Board of Education Principal Endorsement. Candidates in this track must hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and meet all ISBE requirements.

  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) required prior to program start
  • Currently employed in a K–12 school setting
  • Minimum of two years of full-time experience (or four years part-time experience)
  • Meets all ISBE Principal Endorsement requirements
  • Statement of Purpose, resume, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation

Note: The Principal Endorsement is not available to out-of-state or international students who do not hold an Illinois PEL and meet all Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) endorsement requirements.


Admission Application Checklist

  • Completed application form
  • Statement of Purpose, around 500 words. Dominican University’s School of Education prepares educational leaders who embody the core values of Scholarship, Leadership, and Service and are committed to ethical, inclusive, and equity-centered leadership. You will be asked to answer questions in your essay on your experiences, values, and motivations for pursuing graduate study in Educational Leadership. 
  • Resume
  • Official transcripts 
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation from professors or employers. Letters will be submitted online by recommenders.


Recommended Application Deadline

  • Fall Term Start: August 1


International Students

International students requiring an I-20 or DS 2019 may not apply, since this program is offered primarily online with required in-person components.

To find out more, please contact the Office of Graduate Admission.