Online Programs

What You'll Learn

The Online M.A. in Educational Leadership: Educational Technology and Learning and Preliminary Administrative Services Internship Credential (PASC), Tier I offers a dynamic leadership program designed to help school administrators develop the vision and skills needed to transform educational environments. Graduates complete this program with an undeniable advantage, holding both their master's degree and credential, allowing them to meet state standards and work in public or private schools.

Educational Technology and Learning Emphasis

The 9-unit emphasis in educational technology and learning is offered in a blended or hybrid format, with coursework completed on-campus and online. Students complete the master's degree courses entirely online, and transition to a hybrid program format to complete the emphasis. For many, this flexible format is the easiest, most convenient way to balance work, school, and family.

Preliminary Administrative Services Internship Credential

The Online Preliminary Administrative Services Internship Credential meets the need of school districts by allowing them to employ candidates who have not yet completed all credential requirements. Upon receiving an offer of employment, candidates can immediately acquire the internship credential. This two-year credential entitles them to assume the full responsibilities as a California school administrator while completing the university program. Candidates benefit from joint mentoring and supervision by the university and nominating districts and by attending monthly seminars with other first-year administrators. Upon completion of the program, they apply for the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential, Tier I that allows them five years to complete requirements for the Professional Administrative Services Credential,Tier II.

Designed for the Working Professional

At APU, we understand the challenges of earning your degree while juggling work, family, and other commitments. Our programs are designed to make attending Azusa Pacific simple, so you can reach your educational goals.

Flexible Format

The dynamic online format of the program offers students the flexibility of taking courses when and where it works best for them. Students benefit from courses designed to maximize their interaction with other students and professors, creating a rich learning community. For many, the online format is the easiest, most convenient way to balance work, school, and family.

Convenient Schedule

The Online M.A. in Educational Leadership: Educational Technology and Learning and PASC (Internship), Tier I offers students a sequenced course design that can be completed through five nine-week terms. Candidates take courses with the same peers throughout the program and benefit from the flexibility of taking courses online when and where it works best for them.

Time Commitment

While you do not need to be online during a specific timeframe, you should plan to be online 6–10 hours per week per unit to successfully complete assignments and participate in discussions.

All online programs include a two-week online orientation prior to the start of the first class. This offers you a chance to become familiar with the online format as you engage with helpful tutorials.

Graduate online programs follow APU's Graduate Academic Calendar with most courses offered in nine-week terms.

Relevant Academics

Field Experience

Coursework is immediately applicable as a resource for curriculum planning, achievement assessment, decision making, and program improvement. Field experience is embedded throughout the program, even for online program students. The candidate assumes leadership responsibilities at a local school or district setting under the guidance of a site supervisor and university mentor throughout two terms: Fall I and Fall II or Spring I and II.

Field experiences include intensive experiences both in the day-to-day functions of administrators and in longer-term policy design and implementation. These experiences are closely related to the job performance requirements of administrators.

Case Study and Thesis Option

A case study is developed by each candidate based on local school or district scenarios, needs, issues, and/or situations. It is initiated in the first two courses and developed in each of the succeeding five courses. Candidates present their case studies before an evaluative panel during the final course, Leadership Performance Assessment.

Candidates can also choose to complete a master’s degree thesis in lieu of field experience. Students communicate with the program director prior to enrolling in the third course, Educational Leadership and Change, to present a rudimentary research proposal. The program director and/or other full-time faculty are available to advise students who may be considering the thesis option.

Acquiring the Preliminary Administrative Services Certificate of Eligibility

Upon completion of the program, the candidate is encouraged to apply for the Preliminary Administrative Services Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate is evidence that the candidate has successfully met all developmental objectives and program standards to merit recommendation for the certificate. This document qualifies the candidate to apply for an entry-level administrative position in California school districts. Upon being offered an administrative position, the candidate applies for and acquires the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential. The administrator has five years to complete requirements for the Professional Administrative Services Credential, Tier II. Candidates who do not immediately secure an administrative position apply for the Certificate of Eligibility, as there is no expiration date on the certificate.