FAQ
How long it will take is dependent on how many credit hours a candidate takes per semester. We have three semesters, Spring, Summer, and Fall. Generally speaking, candidates will take one to two courses per semester. At two courses per semester, an Advanced Certificate can be completed in four semesters, while the masters will take six semesters, or two years. There is a five year enrollment to completion requirement.
Planning Guides are available for each program. The Planning Guide provides the required courses for the program along with any additional requirements such as the required State Test and they Niagara University Comprehensive Exam.
Transfer Credit is available under certain conditions. Any credit provided can only be for graduate courses taken beyond the first masters degree from an accredited college or university. Courses considered for transfer credit must directly align with the content of a required Niagara University Course. Consideration is given based upon the candidate's official transcript, grade and the most recent catalog description. Consideration for transfer credit should take place at the time of initial enrollment with the candidate's assigned advisor.
There is a required oral exam for school building leadership and a required written exam for school district leadership. These exams are designed to measure the candidate's content knowledge based upon the six ELCC standards. The exams are individually scheduled and generally taken near the end of the candidate's program.
Each of Niagara University's Educational Leadership Programs requires an internship experience consisting of two (2) three credit hour courses. Candidates are required to log three-hundred hours of authentic leadership experience aligned to the ELCC Standards in each course and complete the required portfolio requirements. Candidates arrange for their own internship site and mentor. Generally speaking, the internship location is in the candidate's current employment location. Mentors need to be certified with at least three years of leadership experience. It is recommended that the internship experience be taken near the end of the candidate's course work, but there is flexibility based upon individual circumstances.
Candidates are assigned an advisor upon completion of the admission process. The advisor is available throughout the candidates Niagara University experience. Candidates also have access to the Education Department Administrative assistant and the Program Coordinator to help resolve issues, problems, or concerns.
Decisions for admittance into the graduate program are based upon a comprehensive system, which includes multiple measures to assess the personal characteristics, communications and basic skills proficiency of candidates.
This system includes (a) application (b) official transcripts or in-progress letter (c) references (d) statement of intent (e) resume and/or experience profile
*Students may attend an interview which will examine the student's career goals, personal readiness for their program, multicultural sensitivity and awareness, and personal judgment and decision-making skills.
Yes. If you are matriculated (accepted) student you may qualify for a Stafford Student Loan, a Federal Perkins Loan, a TAP award (New York state residents).
Learn more at the Niagara University Financial Aid Office.
Students must maintain a B average in course work and successfully complete a comprehensive examination and all practicum and internship placements. They must also pass all New York State Certification Exams.