Master of Education in School Leadership – Providence College

The Graduate School Leadership Program (formerly School Administration) is designed to equip teachers with the skills necessary to become a school administrator. Recipients of Providence College master’s degrees in school leadership have gone on to educational leadership careers such as assistant principals, principals, assistant superintendents, and superintendents.

School Leadership Program Objectives

All program course work is designed to provide the prospective administrator with an understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the supervisor’s role. Students in the program take a central core of courses in curriculum, evaluation, instruction, law, and finance. To this are added courses that address community concerns, technology, and research techniques. Students are also exposed to innovative governance structures and methods which will further their careers as school administrators. The program culminates with a six-credit internship which requires students to put into practice the theory they have been taught in their classes.

Teaching and education are amazing vocations and I think more young people need to hear that these days. There aren’t many jobs in the world where you are guiding and seeing the growth of the future right before your eyes, every day. Watching the joy of discovery and achievement in people of any age as they learn and fulfill their potential is a great blessing, especially in a world where folks are constantly looking for more purpose in their lives.” Read more from School Leadership grads here.

John Wolf, ‘14G, Executive Director of the San Miguel School of Providence

Educational leadership programs provide teachers with opportunities to advance their work into administrative or managerial roles in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and nonprofit organizations. At PC, our program focuses on preparation for educational leadership jobs within the K-12 setting for advanced roles as principals, superintendents, and instructional coordinators, where our graduates effectively manage schools or districts, influence curriculum development, and improve and advocate for educational standards.

Additional Professional Options

Upon completion of the M.Ed. School Leadership program at PC, candidates may pursue additional coursework to prepare to become a Superintendent of Schools or Director of Special Education:

Superintendent

• Only one additional course required: EDU 527 School Plant Planning

Director of Special Education

• One additional administrative course: EDU 567 Administration and supervision of Special Education Services
• 9 graduate-level credits in special education

PC Alum Wins 2023 Rhode Island First Year Principal Award

Christine Lopes, Principal of North Smithfield Middle School and a 2020 graduate of the Providence College School Leadership Program, has received Rhode Island’s First Year Principal Award. Ms. Lopes, an educator for more than 20 years, has been principal at North Smithfield since January of 2022, and previously served as assistant principal and dean of students.

She was also honored with the Golden Apple Award in 2016 from the Rhode Island Department of Education.

PC Faculty is 2023 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year

Dr. Lawrence Filippelli, Superintendent of the Lincoln RI Public Schools and adjunct faculty at Providence College’s School Leadership Program, has been selected as the 2023 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year by the Rhode Island School Superintendents’ Association (RISSA).

Dr. Filippelli has been recognized not only for his focus on teaching and learning, but also for upgrading facilities and creating in-district career pathway programs for students.

“The award recognizes outstanding achievement in school district leadership, dedication to the education of all children, commitment to the community, and service to RISSA.”