Become a School Leader with a Rank I in Administration
Advance Your Career in School Leadership
Earn your Rank I certification and become a principal, director, or instructional supervisor in Kentucky schools.
For certified Kentucky educators holding a master's degree, our School Administration, Rank I program is your direct path to greater influence. This 30-hour, EPSB-aligned curriculum is designed to equip you with the credentials needed to step confidently into an administrative role and shape the future of education across the Commonwealth.
Program at a Glance
Credit Hours
30
Prerequisite
Master's Degree
Program Format
Flexible
Outcome
Admin Certification
Program Options
Choose the path that aligns with your leadership goals. Each of our four distinct concentrations provides a specialized curriculum to prepare you for a specific administrative role.
School Principal
Prepare to lead a vibrant school community, foster a culture of achievement, and empower students and staff to succeed.
Learn more about the School Principal Certification program.
Director of Pupil Personnel
Support student success by managing student services, attendance, and vital district-level programs.
Director of Special Education
Lead inclusive and effective special education programs, ensuring legal compliance, advocating for students, and driving positive outcomes for every learner.
Supervisor of Instruction
Guide curriculum and instruction at the systems level, developing teacher capacity and implementing innovative strategies to elevate learning for all.
A Direct Path to Principal Certification
Have you already been offered a principal or assistant principal position by a district but need to complete your certification? WKU provides a dedicated, EPSB-approved alternative route to get you licensed and ready to lead.
Elevate Your Impact with a Rank I in School Administration
The School of Leadership and Professional Studies is where dedicated Kentucky educators become transformational leaders. Our Rank I program is designed to build upon your master's degree, providing a direct pathway to greater responsibility, a higher salary classification, and the ability to shape the future of education in the Commonwealth.
Your Pathway to Leadership.
Advance to Rank I
Fulfill the requirements for a Rank I salary classification. This 30-hour graduate program is the official next step in your professional standing and financial advancement in Kentucky.
Focused, Relevant Curriculum
Engage in hands-on coursework specifically designed to equip you with the real-world competencies you need for administrative roles like principal, director, or supervisor.
Built for Kentucky Schools
Our curriculum is fully aligned with the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB), ensuring your certification is recognized and respected across the Commonwealth.
Important Certification Details
This administrative certification is tailored for Kentucky and may not be transferable for pay or certification status in other states. The Director of Pupil Personnel Services is also a leadership role unique to the Kentucky education system.
Have questions? We're here to help.
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