Who We Are
For experienced teachers who are ready to take the next step in their careers or business leaders who want to use their skills for a greater good, SUNY Cortland’s Educational Leadership Program opens the door to a new level of responsibility. We are committed to preparing educational administrators as leaders and advocates for social justice and equity. Our curriculum is practitioner-oriented, with real-world project-based assignments relevant to K-12 settings. In short, we prepare educational leaders by integrating theory and practice to develop schools and other learning communities effectively.
Three C.A.S. Certifications
School Building Leader (SBL)
This 30-credit program is for people who hold a master’s degree and teaching certification in New York state. It prepares candidates for the responsibilities of the school building leader. Job titles may include building principal or assistant principal.
School District Business Leader (SDBL)
This 36-credit program is for people who hold a master’s degree and seek to develop sound fiscal strategies for school districts. Candidates examine critical topics such as finance, organization and facilities maintenance and management. Job titles are related to the business operation of a school district such as a school business official.
School District Leader (SDL)
This 30-credit program expands the capacity to envision district-wide impact and improvement in education if candidates hold a master’s degree and teaching certification in New York state. Job titles may include superintendent, director of special education, curriculum coordinator or central office administrator.
Web-Based Coursework
All courses are offered in an online format with scheduled synchronous meetings. Online summer courses are also available, some with intensive one-week completion options. To meet the demands of working professionals, all course meetings are scheduled in the evenings, on Saturdays, or during the summer.
Preparation for the Future
Candidates satisfy the requirements of the Certificate of Advanced Study (C.A.S.) in Educational Administration. Completion of the program permits SUNY Cortland to recommend students to the New York State Education Department for three educational leadership certifications.
Our graduates go on to careers as principals, superintendents, district leaders, facilities managers and curriculum and instructional leaders in school districts. SUNY Cortland’s Educational Leadership Program is one of the most respected in the SUNY system, providing highly qualified administrators to school districts across New York state and the country.