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Develop the professional knowledge, skills, and competencies required of candidates for the Skills for Teacher Leaders Endorsement offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Continue teaching in the classroom while you pursue additional roles such as lead teacher, mentor teacher, or department head. This 12-credit program is designed to fulfill the endorsement requirements for those who already hold Instructional I certification.

For more information, visit the World Campus Graduate Certificate for Teacher Leadership page. 

Admissions Information

If you are a K–12 teacher looking to advance in your school or district, you can benefit greatly from this program. This unique online program allows you to continue teaching in the classroom while you cultivate the skills and knowledge that can prepare you for additional roles such as lead teacher, mentor teacher, or department head. The four required courses incorporate field experience through a mentorship within a school setting allowing you to engage in authentic leadership experiences throughout the duration of the program. Mentors are selected by the students and approved through your Penn State academic adviser. Please note that a Level I or Level II Pennsylvania teaching certificate is required for acceptance to the program, as is access to a school setting and a mentor with at least three years of experience in a current educational leadership position. 

The courses allow students to develop the professional knowledge, skills, and competencies required of candidates for the endorsement. The program has four central themes:

  1. Teacher Leadership as the Gateway to Enhancing Instructional Effectiveness

  2. Peer Mentoring and Its Impact on the Professional Community

  3. The Role of Change in the Era of Accountability

  4. The School as a Cultural and Political Entity

This important credential verifies a teacher’s ability to enhance school culture, impact planned change for school improvement, influence instructional effectiveness, and lead peer educators in professional development. 

  • Introduction to Teacher Leadership (EDLDR 801)

  • How Schools Work (EDLDR 802)

  • Planned Change for School Improvement (EDLDR 859)

  • Principles of Instructional Leadership (EDLDR 861)

Endorsement for teacher leadership in Pennsylvania is obtained directly through the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Our Teacher Leadership Graduate Certificate program may be taken as a stand alone program, as described above, or it may be accomplished concurrently with our Master’s with Teacher Leadership emphasis degree.

Penn State is an Act 48-approved provider for Pennsylvania educators. Some courses may count toward professional development hours.

Many US states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.