41 credits
(29 credits of coursework plus a 12 credit, year-long field experience)
See wce.wwu.edu/edad/residency-administrator-certificate-principal for specific details.
Introduction
Designed for educators who hold a master’s degree or are currently enrolled in a master’s program. Candidates earn the Washington State residency administrator certificate (principal).
Why Consider a Certificate in Residency Administrator (Principal)?
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
All applicants must complete the Graduate School online application, All applicants must complete the program application which includes:
- Unofficial transcripts from the institution that awarded your master’s degree. If you are a current or former Western Washington University student, please generate an unofficial WWU transcript through Web4U to upload. Official transcripts will be required of candidates upon acceptance of an offer of admission.
- Letter of intent stating (a) your goals and objectives as a district-level leader and (b) how your understanding of diversity relates to improving learning for all students.
- Résumé outlining your education and professional history.
- Letter of recommendation from your prospective mentoring superintendent supporting your application and indicating their willingness to serve as your mentor.
- Valid Washington State certificate (teacher, ESA, principal, or program administrator).
Application Deadlines
To receive full consideration for admission to this program, applicants must submit all application materials by the following deadlines:
Fall Quarter: August 1
Winter Quarter: October 1
Spring Quarter: February 1
Summer Quarter: May 1
Program Requirements
Eligibility
- Master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
- Valid Washington State teacher or educational staff associate (ESA) certificate.
- Three years demonstrated successful school-based experience.
Internship
- Washington State Requirement: All candidates for the residency principal’s certificate must spend 540 hours in a full school-year field experience, of which at least one half shall be when students and staff are present.
- Mentor Supervision: The intern shall be under the supervision of a mentoring principal or vice principal certificated at the appropriate level with a minimum of one year of experience in the role.
- District Approval: Candidates must initiate and satisfy any internship approval procedures required by their district.
- University Credit: 540 hours of field experience (EDAD 592) translates to (12) credit hours in one academic year; i.e., three consecutive quarters of (4) credits each.
Additional Information
NOTE: Evidence of good moral character and personal fitness is required if the candidate does not hold a valid Washington educator certificate at the time of recommendation for the administrator certificate. Instructions and forms are available through the certification office in Miller Hall 150.
Grade Requirements
All coursework and demonstration of state-required competencies must be completed with a grade of B (3.0) or better and within a five-year span.
