School of Education

Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Welcome to Hofstra University’s K-12 Educational Leadership Programs!

Hofstra University offers a variety of graduate level programs that serve to prepare for administrative leadership roles in K-12 settings. Our Educational Leadership and Policy programs provide an interdisciplinary exploration of important foundational and policy issues in education and a comprehensive introduction to educational leadership. Students interested in studying leadership in K-12 schools are exposed to current theories, concepts, and learning models to assume administrative positions in this environment.

Check out our program options below to determine which program track is the right one for you!

Check Out Our Presentation on Educational Leadership

Choose Your Program


Admissions Requirements


Getting Started


Student Resources


Frequently Asked Questions

Which program offers certification in leadership?
The Educational Leadership, AC program leads to NYS certification in both School Building and School District Leadership (SBL/SDL). The School District Business Leadership, AC leads to NYS certification as a School District Business Leader. The Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, MSEd is a non-certification track master’s program that provides an interdisciplinary exploration of important foundational and policy issues in education and basic introduction to educational leadership.
Am I eligible for the MSEd?
Candidates that are not seeking formal NYS certification in Educational Leadership or who are working as an administrator perhaps in private settings like private/charter schools, nonprofits, etc., are eligible to apply to the MSEd. Since this program does not offer formal NYS certification, candidates can have a varied background for this program.
Do I need teaching experience to be eligible?
Applicants for the Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership must have at least two years of PreK-12 certified classroom teaching or pupil personnel experience and possess a master’s degree. SDBL applicants must have completed a master’s degree and a minimum of five years of full-time experience in a professional position in educational or non-educational organizations. A master’s degree in business administration or accounting is preferred.
How long does the Educational Leadership programs take to complete?
Candidates in the Educational Leadership AC program can expect to complete the 30 credit program in two academic years. Candidates within the SDBL, AC program will either complete the full 38 credit program option if they do not hold SBL/SDL certification and could expect to complete the program in two and a half academic years; for those who hold NYS SBL/SDL certification could expect to complete the 15 credit track in as little as one and a half academic years. The MSEd is a 36-credit program which could students on average two-three years to complete.
How will courses integrate into my current schedule?
These programs are designed for working professionals. Courses that meet face to face will meet between 4:30-6:20 p.m. or 6:30-8:20 p.m. Other courses may meet in a hybrid format to allow for more flexibility.

Contact Us

Assistant Dean of Graduate Recruitment

Mich Ferraino

Office Phone: 516-463-4885

Program Director and Professor of Specialized programs in education

Dr. Eustace Thompson

Office Phone: 516-463-5749