Application Process

Admission decisions are based on academic ability and the availability of a cohort each term. If a cohort is not available, applicants may move their applications to the next available term. Paper admission materials may be held on file for up to two years.

1. Application Form

Applicants must complete the application for admission. Be sure to list your personal e-mail address on the application.

2. Application Fee

Applicants must pay a non-refundable $35 application fee. The fee is payable by credit card and is waived for Samford alumni, students and employees.

3. Transcripts

Applicants must provide official transcripts from all institutions attended. Transcripts are only considered official when they bear the issuing institution’s seal and arrive with the seal intact.

Transcripts may be emailed to edgradadmit@samford.edu or sent by postal mail to:
Attn: Marcie Harchuck
School of Education
Samford University
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, AL 35229

4. Program-specific Requirements

Traditional Master's Programs

Academic ability is evaluated on prior degrees, GPA, letters of recommendation, admission documents and credentials. Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Prerequisites and Testing

Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and have a Class B teaching certificate. Testing is not required.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Dispositions: MSE program applicants must submit the email addresses of one direct supervisor and two additional email addresses of colleagues to complete a disposition form on the candidate.
  • Copy of Teaching Certificate
  • Notarized Experience Verification form documenting three or more years of teaching experience.
  • Portfolio
    • Most recent performance appraisal
    • Evidence of ability to improve student achievement
    • Evidence of leadership and management potential
    • Statement of purpose
    • Summary of program expectations
  • Interview with program director
  • For teachers certified in Library Media Science or Counseling, a recommendation from your current employing superintendent is required

Alternative A Master's Programs

Testing and Prerequisites

Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 and achieve passing scores on the Praxis exams determined during applicants' admission process.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Dispositions Form completed by your current supervisor (may not be the same person as your letter of recommendation)
  • Background Clearance Letter
  • Interview with Faculty

Educational Specialist Program

Academic ability is evaluated on prior degrees, GPA, letters of recommendation, admission documents and credentials. Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Testing and Prerequisites

Testing is not required for entry into the educational specialist program. However, applicants must have:
  • Earned a master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university; and
  • A Class A teaching certificate in instructional leadership.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Copy of Teaching Certificate
  • Notarized Experience Verification form documenting three or more years of teaching experience.

Doctoral Program

Academic ability is evaluated on prior degrees, GPA, letters of recommendation, program interview and credentials. Completed applications are reviewed at least once a month.

Testing and Prerequisites

Testing is not required for entry into the doctoral program. However, doctoral applicants must have:
  • Earned an educational specialist (EdS) degree from a regionally accredited institution; or
  • Completed 30 hours beyond a master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited college or university.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Professional Resume or CV
  • Program Interview with Admission Committee
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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there prerequisite courses to apply to this program?
Yes there are prerequisites to applying for the Instructional Leadership program. Students must:
  • Complete the application and submission of the application fee
  • Submit one copy of all official transcripts from all institutions attended
  • Complete the experience Verification Form; Class A IL standards evidence(s), if necessary
  • Have a current and valid Alabama (Class A) leadership (i.e., administrative type) certificate; evidence of a criminal background check
Do I need a minimum GPA to enter the program?
There is no minimum GPA for admission into the Instructional Leadership program; however, recommendation for state certification requires completion with a 3.25 GPA or higher.
Are there internship opportunities available through this program?
Yes. A three-hour practicum course is included in the Instructional Leadership program and is typically completed at the student’s place of employment.
How many credits does it take to finish this program?
The Instructional Leadership program requires 30 credit hours.
What careers do graduates of this program pursue?

Graduates of the Instructional Leadership program pursue district-level and school-level leadership roles, including superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, assistant principal, and head of school positions.