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College of Education

Principal

Rise to Greater with this certificate and build the important skills needed as a Texas principal.

Related programs
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Degree
  • TEA Certification
Location
  • The Woodlands Center
  • Online
Type of Instruction
  • Face to Face
  • Online
Length

18 Credit Hours

Ethical Leadership, Professional Development

Through a blend of theory and practical experience, students in the Principal Certification program learn to navigate the complexities of school leadership. Coursework covers topics such as ethical leadership, collaborative decision-making, data-driven instruction, and school improvement planning. With guidance from experienced faculty and real-world practice in providing T-TESS-aligned feedback and building strong relationships, candidates are equipped with the skills needed to lead with confidence and impact.

Who is this certificate for?

Educators who hold an M.Ed. and are currently working at a Texas Education Agency accredited school are proper candidates for this program. It is designed specifically for those professionals who seek to obtain Texas Principal as Instructional Leader certification.

Where and How Is This Program Available?

All courses are available online except for a one-time training at The Woodlands Center. The Principal Practicum/Internship is taken over two semesters: either fall and spring or spring and fall (3 hours each semester).

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Learn the basics of school leadership, gain the necessary skills to serve your community.

Earn Principal Certification

This program originates in the Department of Educational Leadership and is also offered in combination with the Med in School Leadership. Candidates learn the basics of school leadership, the legal basis for school control within federal, state, and local law, and about special programs offered in public schools to serve the diverse needs of the community.

  • Become a Leader

    Candidates learn the the basic activities of educational management, theories and concepts, organization, and governance of the public schools. Courses in this program explore the development of effective leadership strategies to improve student achievement through curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development.

  • The Law and Beyond

    Courses cover the relation of the federal government to public education, the state as the fundamental legal unit in organization, and administration of a state school system. Candidates will be prepared in background knowledge of the legal responsibilities of the state and local boards of education. Candidates also learn about special programs offered in public schools, such as special education, ESL/EFL education, continuing education, gifted/talented, and vocational and technical education.

  • Field-Based Practicum

    Candidates gain direct experience in administrative leadership through a Principal Practicum/Internship program. Over the course of two long semesters (fall and spring or spring and fall), students have the opportunity to participate in intensive study and field experience, gaining deep and meaningful first-hand insight in problems relating to a specific job at the elementary, middle or senior high school level.

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Become a Texas Principal

Earn your Principal Certification and gain the skills needed to take your educator career to the next level in leadership.

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Expert Leaders

Our faculty bring extensive experience and recognized expertise in school leadership, combining real-world administrative practice, research, and mentorship to prepare the next generation of educational leaders.

Become a Bearkat

Ready to learn how SHSU can help you or to start your application today? Our Admissions team is here to help. Call 936-339-0148