Non-degree School Administrator Endorsement Program

Program Overview

The non-degree School Administrator (A.K.A. Superintendent) Endorsement Program offered at the GSE provides students with the opportunity to synthesize and apply knowledge gained in their graduate studies to develop insight into actual administrative (superintendent, assistant superintendent) practice. Successful completion of the required coursework will lead to a New Jersey Department of Education Certificate of Eligibility as a School Administrator. The School Administrator Endorsement authorizes the holder to be employed in any position that involves services as a district-level administrator in public schools in grades preschool through grade 12. Positions may include superintendent, assistant superintendent, and director. 

This program does not lead to a degree of any kind. The 3-credit endorsement program is available only to individuals who hold a New Jersey Standard Principal Certificate or Principal Certificate of Eligibility. Applicants must also meet the prerequisite course requirements outlined in the program guide in order to be eligible for admittance into the program.

Program Goals as of 2022-2023
(Last updated: 7/21/2022)

Knowledge/Understanding 

• Students will develop deep understanding of and expertise in the fundamental aspects of educational leadership. 
• Students will learn strategies for engaging all stakeholders in the development of district visions and goals. 
• Students will learn major federal laws, regulations, and codes that cover human resource management. 
• Students will become familiar with how elements of facilities management affect the learning process. 
• Students will learn basic procedures for financial record keeping, reporting, and accountability.    

Communication/Community Building 

• Students will learn how and when to articulate positions on educational issues.  
• Students will learn how to communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholder groups, both internal and external, in order to support the achievement of district goals. 

 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) 

• Students will learn the basic principles of ethical professional behavior for educators. 
• Students will become familiar with strategies and activities that address the needs of diverse populations. 
• Students will learn how to investigate the equity and cultural responsiveness of programs. 

Research/Professional Practice 

• Students will engage with original, evidence-based research and use that research to inform their professional practice and address problems of practice that may require change in policy and programs. 
• Students will become familiar with best practices and research that support personal and professional growth of all staff. 

Assessment 

• School Administrator students will learn how to evaluate and select programs, services, and resources to support student learning. 
• School Administrator students will understand the importance of developing and implementing a district plan of student assessment.  
• School Administrator students will understand how to gather and analyze student assessment data to monitor, evaluate, and improve student learning.  
• Students will understand the importance of monitoring and evaluating curriculum and instructional practices. 

Professional Development/Self-Reflection 

• Students will develop the skills needed to identify professional learning needs within their organization and subsequently organize and/or lead professional learning communities intended to build collective capacity building within their educational organization.  
• Students will be able to identify research-based professional development practices and activities for self and staff. 
• Students will understand the importance of implementing a comprehensive and differentiated professional development program for all staff.  

For more information about this program:

• Download the program guide (includes course list and application requirements)
• Contact Marie Pavelchak, Senior Student Program Coordinator in the Office of Student and Academic Services

Program Details