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College
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License
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Certificate/Endorsement/License
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Planning Your Future as a Superintendent
Ashland University’s school superintendent licensure program is designed to prepare the next generation of visionary school system leaders. Grounded in real-world application and rigorous academic standards, the program equips experienced educational administrators with the essential knowledge, leadership competencies and ethical foundations necessary to lead complex educational systems.
Candidates enter the program holding a master’s degree and a valid administrative license, with a minimum of three years of successful experience as a principal or administrative specialist. The curriculum – comprising specialized coursework in areas such as school finance, personnel management and board relations – culminates in an intensive, hands-on superintendent internship. Throughout the program, candidates are supported by dedicated faculty, practical mentorship and a focus on strategic, student-centered leadership.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of Ashland University’s school superintendent licensure program will:
- Earn a superintendent license through a high-quality, accredited program that emphasizes personalized mentorship, executive coaching and flexible course delivery options tailored to working professionals.
- Master distributive leadership skills by engaging with experienced faculty who integrate current research, best practices and real-world leadership scenarios to equip candidates to frame, analyze and solve complex educational challenges.
- Impact student success and community leadership by developing the knowledge, ethical grounding, and systems-thinking necessary to foster equitable learning environments and lead school districts that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
Curriculum
Ashland University’s School Superintendent Licensure program is structured to provide a rigorous yet flexible pathway tailored for experienced administrators. The curriculum focuses on leadership theory, operational expertise and real-world application, ensuring you are prepared for the multifaceted responsibilities of district and community leadership.
View the Academic Catalog or Superintendent Licensure Checksheet for complete degree requirements.
Coursework includes:
- EDFN 501: APA Seminar (0 credit hours)
A required seminar taken in the first semester to support candidates’ academic writing and research skills, ensuring readiness for graduate-level coursework. - EDAD 691: The Superintendency (3 credit hours)
A comprehensive exploration of the superintendent’s role, covering district governance, policy development, strategic leadership, and stakeholder engagement. - EDAD 693: School Finance and Resource Management (3 credit hours)
Develops expertise in the financial operations of school systems, including budgeting, funding, resource allocation, and fiscal responsibility. - EDAD 698: Personnel, Facilities, and Board Relations (3 credit hours)
Focuses on managing human resources, overseeing district facilities, and cultivating productive relationships with school boards and community partners. - EDAD 700: Capstone: Superintendent Internship (3 credit hours)
Provides a hands-on, field-based internship experience, allowing candidates to apply leadership theories and operational strategies in authentic educational settings, accompanied by reflective seminar sessions.
| Licensure Disclosure: This program is for students who intend to seek employment in Ohio and only prepares students for licensure in the state of Ohio. |