Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 170
States Commission on Higher Education( MSCHE). The PK12 Principal Certification is recognized and approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Program Modality: Online with On-Ground Residencies
• First Doctoral Residency consists of an intensive weekend at the beginning of the program.
• Second Doctoral Residency consists of an intensive week during the summer following enrollment in the program.
• Third Doctoral Residency, typically one week in length, includes participation in an international educational conference. Program Director: Dr. Raymond Bandlow
Program Description: The 2 + 2 program is presented in an accelerated cohort model, delivered online with three residencies. It is built upon a foundation of coursework essential to leadership in PK12 schools and school districts. It requires ten courses( thirty credit hours) for the MS degree and PK12 Principal Certification and twelve doctoral level courses( thirty-six credit hours) for a total of sixty-six( 66) credit hours. The area of concentration is Leadership in PK – 12 School and School Districts. The purpose of this accelerated program, which can be completed in four years, is to impart in students the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to fulfill leadership roles in U. S. and international schools, school districts, colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations that support education. This program develops the next generation of educational leadership.
Textbooks and Residency Costs Included: All required textbooks for doctoral level courses are provided to students at no additional cost. Most meals during the residencies are provided at no additional cost. For the First Doctoral Residency, transportation, and lodging( if needed) are at the expense of the student. For the Second Doctoral Residency, transportation is at the expense of the student, but lodging is provided at no additional cost. For the Third Doctoral Residency, transportation, lodging, conference fees, most meals, and related experiences are provided at no additional cost.
Preparation for Professional Licensure: This program in educational leadership with a PK12 emphasis includes all coursework and practicum requirements for Pennsylvania PK12 Principal Certification. The doctoral program in leadership with PK – 12 concentration includes content courses for Pennsylvania Superintendent Letter of Eligibility certification.
NOTE: * This program was designed to meet the licensure / certification requirements of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Students who reside in a different state should carefully review their home state’ s licensure / certification requirements prior to enrolling in this program.
Master’ s Degree in Educational Administration with K12 Principal Certification Program Learning Outcomes( PLOs): PLO1 Apply theoretical and practical knowledge in support of your professional practice.( ULO 2, 4) PLO2 Utilize educational research and develop your own research interests and agenda.( ULO 2, 3) PLO3 Examine and critique the economic, political, cultural, historical, and social influences that impact education in the United States.( ULO 1, 3, 5) PLO4 Apply policies, statutes, and rules established by state and local agencies relating to judicious application of disciplinary methods and behavioral procedures.( ULO 3, 4) PLO5 Identify and use instructional methods and curricula that are appropriate and effective in meeting the needs of individual learners.( ULO 1, 2, 4, 5)