Students pursuing Principal Certification at RMU have the unique opportunity to earn a Master of Science in Education degree concurrently.

Here is how our program is designed to enhance your educational leadership journey:

Dual Credentials for Enhanced Career Prospects

The Master of Science in Education with Principal Certification allows students to seamlessly integrate their principal certification coursework with a master’s degree. This dual credential enhances your qualifications and positions you for advanced leadership roles in education.

Comprehensive and Flexible Curriculum

Students enrolled in the Principal Certification program will complete 15 LEAD credits, including courses like:

• LEAD6000 Principal Preparation Seminar
• LEAD6010 Leadership and School Improvement Internship
• LEAD6020 Leadership and Student Achievement Internship
• LEAD6030 Leadership and Special Education Internship
• LEAD6040 Leadership and Professional Development Internship

To earn the Master of Science in Education degree, students will take an additional 15 credits:

• EDUC6065 Educational Statistics
• EDUC6130 Educational Research Seminar
• EDUC6140 Education Capstone
• Two departmentally approved 6000-level electives (EDUC/SDIN/RDSP/TESL)

Flexible Learning Formats

The Principal Certification courses may be offered either On Ground or Online depending on the cohort. The additional master’s courses will be exclusively online, providing flexibility for working professionals. Course and program modalities will be communicated at the onset.

Cohort-Based Learning with Elective Choices

The program is cohort-based for the Principal Certification courses, fostering a supportive learning community. For the master’s degree, students will join peers from other education tracks, choosing electives that align with their career goals.

Take the Next Step in Educational Leadership

By integrating Principal Certification with a Master of Science in Education, RMU prepares future educational leaders with the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed for success. Start your journey today and become a transformational leader in education.

Contact Information

Patricia Kardambikis Ph.D.
kardambikis@rmu.edu
412-397-6246

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit the following through the RMU website:

• Graduate admission application: Apply Here
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
• Two letters of recommendation on company letterhead.
• Current resume
• International students must provide a statement of financial support, proof of health insurance, official TOEFL scores, and all official transcripts.

For more details on the application process, visit Graduate Admissions.

Curriculum Overview

AREA I – Research Core

9 Credits Required (also required for M.Ed. Literacy)

• EDUC6065 Educational Statistics 
• EDUC6130 Educational Research Seminar
• EDUC6140 Education Capstone

AREA 2– Educational Administration (For students in Principal Cert)

21 Credits, 15 Required, 6 Elective

• LEAD6000 Principal Preparation Seminar
• LEAD6010 Leadership and School Improvement Internship 
• LEAD6020 Leadership and Student Achievement Internship
• LEAD6030 Leadership and Special Education Internship
• LEAD6040 Leadership and Professional Development Internship
• EDUC/SDIN/RDSP/TESL 6000 level departmentally approved elective
• EDUC/SDIN/RDSP/TESL 6000 level departmentally approved elective

Testimonials

Becky Smolens – Cohort Summer 2023

The RMU Principal Certification Program was wonderful. It allowed me to work fulltime and still maintain a work-life balance with having a young child at home. I was able to complete the program in just under a year, and never felt overwhelmed with the amount of work that was assigned. The instructors were amazing and supported me every step of the way. I would HIGHLY recommend this program to anyone looking to further their career and expand their certification area.

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Dr. Christine Shaffer - Cohort Summer 2023

The Principal Certification program at Robert Morris University was a great fit for me. The course expectations were presented at the very beginning, and I was able to plan my assignments and projects from the beginning. The professors were always available if I had questions, and I felt supported throughout the process. I am very happy I chose RMU!

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Jana Honey - Cohort March 2023

Participating in RMU’s Principal Certificate Program was instrumental in preparing me for a leadership role in education. The program struck an ideal balance between practical strategies, cutting-edge leadership theories, and hands-on real-world applications. The collaboration with experienced professors and fellow aspiring principals fostered a dynamic community where I was consistently challenged yet fully supported. I graduated not only with a deeper understanding of effective leadership but also with the confidence and tools to inspire my staff and drive meaningful change within my school.

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Katie Barber - Cohort June 2022

When I was considering completing my K-12 Principal program, I had several options in the area. Ultimately, I decided on RMU’s program because I appreciated the in person component and RMU’s reputation. I am so happy with my decision. Every class was grounded in practical concepts and learning. The professors have invaluable experiences that they share with the cohorts. At the end of the program, I felt more than ready to assume an administration position, and now that I’m in my position, I think back on what we learned regularly. I highly recommend RMU’s program to anyone considering getting their Principal papers. 

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Kimberly Jones - Cohort March 2023

The Principal Certification Program at RMU has opened so many doors for me professionally. I was apprehensive about committing to the program at first, but I am so glad that I decided to go for it. Dr. Kardambikis and Dr. Thomas provided a wealth of knowledge and support, and the flexible option to participate virtually was exactly what I needed. The assignments for the program were relevant and I was able to manage my time easily while being a single mom of 3 and working full time in Education. The topics covered in the program are so useful for educators – even if pursuing a position in administration is not a short-term goal. I highly recommend the program at RMU. 

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Erik Zipay - Cohort Summer 2023

RMU’s Principal Certification Program from start to finish was a great decision for me as a 1st year Principal. The program is well designed with relevant course work that was impactful in making me a better leader in my building which allowed me to drive student achievement and staff experience. The leaders and instructors of RMU’s Principal Certification have a vast amount of educational leadership experience that they bring to the table to support in program participants development. One of my assistant principals is now in the program and another is joining the next cohort. Couldn’t recommend it more!