Unlock Your Leadership Potential

Are you ready to step into the role of a dynamic and influential school leader in California's education system? Our cutting-edge online MAELA degree program, coupled with a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC), is the gateway to your journey towards becoming a Vice Principal, Assistant Principal, or Principal at an elementary, middle, or high school.

We're here to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and credentials you need to oversee daily school activities, manage budgets, shape curriculum and instruction, foster staff development, work collaboratively with the school community, and positively impact student achievement. Our program's emphasis on fieldwork/clinical practice means you won't just learn in the classroom; you'll apply your knowledge in real educational settings, honing your leadership skills and building confidence.

Here's what you can expect from this unique, practitioner-based program:

  • Alignment with National and State Standards: Our program goes beyond local requirements — it aligns with national leadership standards. We follow the guidelines set by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Education Leaders Standards, and more. This alignment not only prepares you for the unique demands of California's educational landscape, but also positions you for leadership opportunities across the country.
  • Credentialing Opportunities: Upon successfully completing all program requirements and courses, you may be eligible to receive a Certificate of Eligibility or Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). Additionally, if you secure an employment opportunity in such a role while enrolled in our program, you may qualify for an Administrative Services Internship Credential, fast-tracking your journey to leadership.
  • Mentorship and Support: At UMass Global, we're committed to preparing the next generation of educational leaders who will drive positive change within schools and districts. As you embark on this journey, you'll be guided by experienced educators and professionals who are passionate about empowering the next generation of school leaders. They'll provide you with insights, mentorship, and support every step of the way.
CA Only

At a Glance

Online
34 Credits
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

Online education

A Better Balance for Work and School

Affordable, asynchronous classes that fit your work schedule, offered 100% online so you can learn while you earn.

Standards

Aligned with Standards

Aligned to the highest national standards in leadership, including the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), Education Leaders Standards.

Standards

CTC-Recognized Degree

Our MAELA with Embedded Credentials was designed to meet the California Council on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) program standards.

Career Outlook for MA in Educational Leadership and Admin, PAS Credential

Results for:
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring

Data source: Lightcast™ 2025 www.lightcast.io

The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

  1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
  2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
  3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

Courses You Might Take

EDAD 616

Professional Growth and Learning

3 Credits
EDAD 614

Aligning Resources and Systems for School Improvement

3 Credits
EDAD 608

School Law, School wide Discipline and Safety

3 Credits
EDAD 606

Change and Continuous Improvement

3 Credits
EDAD 604

Community Perspective, Collaboration and School Culture

3 Credits
EDAD 602

Applied Educational Research and Data Analysis

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this credential program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

  • Completed application
  • Valid California clear prerequisite credential
  • A minimum of three years of full-time, verified experience under a prerequisite CTC credential, with verification provided by a letter from the school district on letterhead and signed by Human Resources

California Residency

This program is only available to California residents.

Program Start Dates

The program starts three times per year in Fall I, Spring I, and Summer I.

Letter of Good Standing

If the candidate is not currently employed in a position requiring a prerequisite CTC credential, they must submit a letter identifying the school and principal under whom fieldwork assignments will be completed.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC).

Calculate Time and Cost

Demo

Ready to pursue your MAELA degree?

Testimonials

Kristie Kay

My time at UMass Global was transformative, not just academically, but personally and professionally. The insights and skills I gained were not confined to theoretical scenarios; they were immediately applicable to my professional life. The support and care I received were instrumental in shaping my career and guiding me toward success.

Kristie K.
Educational Leadership & Administration, MA with PAS Credential
Middle School Principal, Kinetic Academy

I am incredibly happy that I selected this program! Not only were my professors knowledgeable and helpful, but every assignment was relevant to my position. I know I am a better leader as a result of this program, and I regularly recommend it to my colleagues.

Jodi M.
Educational Leadership & Administration, MA with PAS Credential
Principal, Dr. Ralph H. Baker 21st Century Learning Center
Jordan Holmes

From the knowledge and skills learned, I was able to achieve my goal and obtain a job in administration before even completing the program! UMass Global has changed my life for the better and I highly encourage any person thinking about attending to take the first step to begin their new life-changing experience!

Jordan H.
Educational Leadership & Administration, MA with PAS Credential
Vice Principal, Westside Union School District

 

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