Performance-Based Leadership - Tier II - Certification Only

About this field

The Certification-Only Performance Based Leadership program is a comprehensive program of study including course work and related clinical experiences leading to a Tier II Georgia certificate in Educational Leadership.  Candidates participating in the certification-only program may add Tier II educational leadership certification to an existing Level 6 Georgia certificate by completing the elements of this program. Through the combination of course work and performance-based activities, candidates will develop the necessary competencies to become an educational leader. 

The Valdosta State Difference

The candidate is expected to complete significant and varied administrative responsibilities under the guidance of the Candidate Support Team (CST) consisting of the candidate, a leadership mentor, and the VSU leadership advisor.  The goal is to develop one’s leadership and management abilities by engaging in problem analysis, collecting relevant data, collaborative problem-solving, participating in curricular and instructional activities, and participating in instructional supervision.  Candidates undertake activities addressing curriculum development, student and program evaluation, staff development, scheduling, interpretation and use of statistical data for school improvement planning, budgeting procedures, school/community relations, facility maintenance and operations, and the uses of technology for administrative and instructional purposes.

What You'll Learn

The Educational Leadership program is designed to provide future leaders:

1. An opportunity to acquire practical experience in school leadership
2. A linkage of theory and practice
3. An integrated experience in problem resolution and decision-making as well as other aspects of educational leadership
4. The environment to experiment with new ideas, approaches, and strategies in a low-risk, supportive environment
5. A basis for assessing professional strengths and needs for further development

Cost and Length of Program

The prescribed Certification-Only course sequence allows students to transfer of existing specialist or doctoral work (as appropriate) and complete the course requirements of the program within 3 semesters.  The cost of the 18 hours of field-based work is $6,500*. 

(*Cost computed based on Fall 2016 rates.) 

Program of Study

Area A: Specialist/Doctoral Level Leadership Courses - 12 hours

The faculty advisor will collaborate with the candidate and school system partners to evaluate graduate course work to identify appropriate courses for transfer or enrollment.

Area B: Performance-Based Activities - 18 hours

Performance-based activities must be conducted at either the building or system level.