Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
School of Business & Economics
Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose
Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University
Welcome to the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Atlantic International University (AIU), where academic excellence meets the forefront of educational innovation. Our program is designed for aspiring leaders in education who seek to shape policy, drive institutional change, and foster educational equity in diverse settings.
At AIU, we embrace andragogy-driven education, empowering our students with the autonomy to direct their learning experience. Through a blend of rigorous academic inquiry and practical application, our Educational Leadership Master’s Degree cultivates visionary leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of modern educational landscapes.
With a strong emphasis on academic freedom and intellectual exploration, our Master’s in Leadership and Policy Studies prepares graduates to tackle contemporary challenges in education policy formulation and implementation. Whether you’re passionate about advocating for inclusive educational practices or pioneering advancements in distance learning technologies, AIU offers a dynamic platform for an Educational Policy Master’s program to realize your aspirations.
Join us in advancing educational leadership and policy through our Online Masters in Educational Leadership, where innovation meets impact, and every student’s journey is empowered by knowledge and driven by purpose.
Courses and Topics : Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list, as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU?
Check here: Course and Curriculum
Our Educational Leadership and Policy Graduate Degree at AIU offers a diverse and comprehensive curriculum tailored to equip students with the skills needed to excel in leadership roles within the education sector. The program covers key areas such as Leadership in Education and Policy Studies, strategic planning in education, ethical leadership, curriculum development, educational law and finance, and research methodologies in policy analysis. With an Advanced Degree in Educational Policy, students gain a deep understanding of educational reform, governance, and decision-making processes, preparing them to influence and implement transformative policies at local, national, and global levels.
- Educational Leadership and Administration
- Education Policy and Governance
- K-12 Educational Leadership
- Curriculum and Instruction Leadership
- Global and Comparative Education Policy
- Special Education Leadership
Orientation Courses
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU begins with a strong foundation through orientation courses designed to introduce key concepts in Leadership Studies, Education Policy, and Policy Reform. Students complete these courses and provide a comprehensive overview of School Leadership principles, governance structures, and the role of leadership in shaping effective educational institutions.
Students will explore critical issues in Higher Education, including policy development, institutional management, and strategies for driving meaningful reforms. Through these orientation courses, learners gain essential knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of educational leadership and policymaking at various levels.
- Communication & Investigation
- Experiential Learning
- Fundament of Knowledge
- Professional Evaluation
- Organization Theory
- Academic Evaluation
- Fundamental Principles I
- Development of Graduate Study
Research projects in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Research projects in the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU focus on addressing real-world challenges in education through innovative and impactful studies. Students engage in research exploring Curriculum Leadership, analyzing strategies to design, implement, and evaluate effective curricula that enhance learning outcomes. Strategic Leadership is a key area of study, enabling students to investigate leadership models that drive institutional success and sustainable growth in educational settings.
Additionally, research on Education Reform empowers students to critically assess and propose policy changes that promote equity, inclusivity, and innovation in education. Through these research projects, students develop evidence-based solutions that contribute to the advancement of educational leadership and policy.
- MBM300 Thesis Proposal
- MBM302 Master of science Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication – Students pursuing the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU have the opportunity to contribute to academic discourse through research and publications. Our graduate program encourages students to publish articles, case studies, and research papers on key topics in educational leadership, exploring innovative strategies for shaping the future of education. Aspiring educational leaders can delve into the political and legal aspects of policy development, governance, and reform, addressing challenges in higher education and K-12 institutions. Publishing research as part of the master’s degree enhances students’ professional profiles, positioning them as thought leaders in the field of educational policy and leadership.
Thesis Defense for Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
The thesis defense is a vital part of the master’s program in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU, allowing students to present their research and demonstrate their expertise. Through their graduate coursework, including core courses and elective courses, students develop a strong foundation in educational leadership and policy, applying their knowledge to real-world challenges.
The defense showcases their ability to critically analyze issues, particularly in areas such as educator preparation programs and policies affecting international students, ensuring they are prepared to lead and innovate in the global education sector.
Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Student Experience
The student experience in the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU is enriched by AI-driven education, providing a personalized and flexible learning journey. Through interactive digital platforms and adaptive learning technologies, students engage with graduate coursework, including core courses and elective courses, tailored to their academic and professional goals. The program fosters critical thinking and leadership skills, empowering students—especially international students—to navigate complex educational landscapes. With AI-powered resources, mentorship, and real-world applications, students gain hands-on expertise in educational leadership and policy, preparing them to drive meaningful change in educator preparation programs and institutional governance.
Community & Social
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU provides a vibrant and interactive community experience, seamlessly integrating advanced technologies with global collaboration. While an online master’s degree program, AIU ensures that applicants seeking admission remain engaged through platforms like MYAIU, AIULink, AIUTV, and the Virtual Campus, fostering connections with fellow students, faculty, and alumni. Aspiring school leaders and professionals in school leadership and educational administration can participate in virtual conferences, live chats, and webinars, gaining insights into educational policy analysis and innovative leadership strategies.
Through AIU’s CampusAPP, available on Android and iOS, students can access resources anytime, anywhere. The AIU Online Library, with over 260,000 books and 30 million academic articles, further supports research for professionals working in school districts or policy-making roles. Additionally, students enrolling in the fall semester may qualify for priority scholarship consideration, making this program an accessible and valuable choice for those dedicated to shaping the future of education.
Contact Us Today!
Begin Your Journey!
AIU’s Summer of Innovation and Growth gives you the ability to earn up to $5000 in tuition credit by completing free lessons and courses.
Whether you’re looking to acquire new skills, advance your career, or simply explore new interests, AIU is your gateway to a world of opportunities. With free access to 3400 lessons and hundreds of courses the ability to earn credits and earn certificates there’s no better time to start learning.
Join us today as a Guest Student and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered future.
Explore. Learn. Achieve.
Academic Resources
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU provides students with a vast array of academic resources to support their learning and research. The Virtual Campus offers an immersive and interactive experience, integrating more than 25 unique tools designed to foster development, motivation, and academic success. AIU students can now access a Virtual Reality 3D immersive experience, enhancing engagement with complex educational concepts. Additionally, students can explore and contribute to a growing collection of over 105,000 AIU-created academic contents through the Merlin Media Center, further enriching their studies in educational leadership and policy. These advanced resources empower students to achieve their program goals and make meaningful contributions to the field of education.
Virtual Campus
Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device.
My AIU Elements
MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.
AIU TV & Radio
The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.
AIU Campus Mundi
AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.
Graduation Ceremony
Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.
Symposiums & Webinars
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU offers students the opportunity to participate in international symposiums, where they engage with experts and peers to discuss critical issues in educational policy, organizational culture, and the legal aspects of education. These symposiums provide a platform for qualified applicants to gain valuable insights into leadership strategies.
Live Classes
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU offers two live classes each day, providing an interactive and engaging learning experience for prospective students in this online program. These sessions, led by experienced faculty and associate professors, cover key topics essential for advancing in leadership roles within the education sector. Designed to support professional development, the live classes allow students to engage in discussions, ask questions in real time, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. As part of AIU’s flexible learning model, the program does not impose a minimum score requirement, making quality graduate degree education accessible to driven individuals passionate about transforming educational leadership and policy.
AIU Live Classes Examples on Educational Leadership & Policy Studies :
Special Projects, Research, Publications, and Co-Authoring
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU provides students with opportunities to engage in Special Projects, Research, Publications, and Co-Authoring, fostering intellectual growth and professional development. Through innovative research initiatives, students explore critical issues in educational leadership, policy reform, and institutional management. AIU encourages students to publish their findings, collaborate with faculty and peers on scholarly articles, and contribute to global discussions on education. By participating in Special Projects, Research, Publications, and Co-Authoring, students enhance their expertise, strengthen their academic portfolios, and position themselves as thought leaders in the field of educational leadership and policy.
Register Now & Get Access to AIU’s Free Resources
Get Started
Career Center for Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
The Career Center at AIU supports students in the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies by providing resources and guidance to help them advance in education and leadership roles. Whether aiming for positions in public schools, policymaking, or research, students receive career counseling tailored to their expertise in policy studies and human development.
The center assists with crafting a strong curriculum vitae, exploring job opportunities, and meeting degree requirements for leadership roles. AIU also helps students navigate application processes, including how to submit transcripts for further graduate studies or meet licensing criteria, such as those set by the Massachusetts Department of Education. Additionally, for those who may have been denied admission elsewhere, AIU’s flexible and supportive approach offers a second chance to pursue higher education, benefiting both international and permanent residents striving for career growth in educational leadership.
Job Description
Tools for Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU equips students with a variety of generalistic tools to enhance their learning, research, and professional development. These tools support academic writing, data analysis, collaboration, and policy evaluation, ensuring students gain the skills needed to excel in policy studies, leadership roles, and educational research. Below is a list of widely used tools that can aid students in their coursework and research:
- Google Scholar – A vast database for finding scholarly articles, journals, and research papers.
- Zotero – A reference management tool that helps students organize and cite sources efficiently.
- Mendeley – A research and reference manager that enables collaboration and citation organization.
- Grammarly – An AI-powered writing assistant for improving grammar, clarity, and academic writing.
- Turnitin – A plagiarism detection tool that ensures originality in research papers and assignments.
- SPSS – A statistical analysis software widely used for data interpretation in education research.
- NVivo – A qualitative data analysis tool useful for organizing and analyzing research findings.
- Trello – A project management tool to help students organize research tasks and academic projects.
- Evernote – A note-taking app that helps students store and organize research materials.
- Canva – A design tool for creating professional presentations and visual reports.
- Google Drive – Cloud storage for safely organizing and accessing research documents and coursework.
- Microsoft Teams – A collaboration platform for virtual discussions and teamwork.
- Zoom – A widely used video conferencing tool for attending live classes, webinars, and academic discussions.
By utilizing these tools, students in the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies program can enhance their productivity, research efficiency, and overall learning experience, preparing them for impactful leadership roles in education.
Associations for Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Professionals
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU prepares students to engage with leading organizations that shape education policy, research, and leadership practices. Membership in professional associations provides students with valuable networking opportunities, access to cutting-edge research, and professional development resources. These organizations support educational leaders, policymakers, and researchers in driving meaningful change in schools, universities, and government institutions. Below is a list of key associations that students in this program may find beneficial:
- American Educational Research Association (AERA) – A premier organization focused on advancing educational research and its practical applications.
- Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) – Provides resources for educators and leaders to improve curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
- National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA) – Supports the development of effective educational leadership standards.
- University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA) – A consortium dedicated to advancing research-based leadership in education.
- Education Law Association (ELA) – Focuses on the legal aspects of education policy and administration.
- National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) – Advocates for middle and high school leadership excellence.
- International Council of Professors of Educational Leadership (ICPEL) – Promotes scholarly research and professional learning for educational leaders.
- Consortium for Policy Research in Education (CPRE) – Conducts research on education policy to improve student outcomes.
- Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) – Supports state education leaders in shaping effective education policies.
- World Educational Research Association (WERA) – A global network that fosters international collaboration in educational research.
By joining these associations, students and professionals in educational leadership and policy studies can stay informed about industry trends, connect with influential thought leaders, and contribute to shaping the future of education.
Explore Our Mundi Magazine to Stay Updated on Latest AIU News
Keep Reading
Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Requirements
The Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU is designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in educational administration, policy development, and leadership. To enroll in this program, applicants must meet specific requirements, including a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a demonstrated commitment to improving education systems.
Prospective students should submit a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and official transcripts as part of the application process. While there is no minimum score requirement, applicants should have relevant professional experience or a strong academic background in education or related fields. The program includes core courses in leadership and policy, elective courses tailored to career goals, and a final research project or thesis to demonstrate mastery of educational leadership concepts. AIU’s flexible, online learning model allows students to customize their coursework, making it ideal for working professionals aiming for leadership roles in schools, universities, and policy organizations.
How Can You Apply?
The application process for the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELP Program) at AIU is simple and designed for most students seeking to advance their careers in leadership and policy within education. Follow these steps to begin your journey:
- Browse Through the Course – Explore the following courses offered in the ELP Program to understand how they align with your career goals in policy analysis, education, and leadership.
- Enter Your Details – Fill out the online application, providing information about your professional experience, academic background, and career aspirations.
- Submit Your Application – Upload your official transcripts, resume, and any additional documents required for evaluation. If necessary, verify eligibility requirements with the state board or relevant authorities.
- Advisor Consultation – Once your application is submitted, one of AIU’s academic advisors will contact you to discuss your qualifications, answer questions, and guide you through the next steps in the program.
By following these steps, applicants can seamlessly begin their academic journey at AIU and gain the knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in education and policy analysis.
Financial Support & Scholarships
AIU is committed to making the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies accessible by offering financial support and scholarships to eligible students. The university provides various funding options to help applicants manage tuition costs while pursuing their degree in leadership and policy studies. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, professional experience in teaching or administration, and leadership potential.
To apply for financial assistance, students may need to submit three letters of recommendation along with their application. AIU’s faculty supports students throughout the process, ensuring they can focus on their courses and research. Whether incoming graduates or experienced professionals, students in the policy studies program can benefit from these financial resources to advance their careers in education.
How Much Does Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Cost Per Year?
The cost of the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU is designed to be affordable, with flexible payment plans that accommodate diverse financial situations. AIU offers a tuition structure that allows students to pursue their degree without financial strain, making admission accessible to professionals seeking advancement in educational leadership policy studies. The university provides various payment options, including monthly installments, to ensure that students can focus on their academic and professional growth without excessive financial burdens. For a detailed breakdown of tuition and available financial aid opportunities, prospective students are encouraged to contact an academic advisor.
FAQs
What career opportunities are available with this degree?
Graduates of the Masters in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies can pursue careers as school principals, education policymakers, academic deans, curriculum directors, higher education administrators, policy analysts, and education consultants. They can work in K-12 schools, universities, government agencies, non-profits, and research institutions, shaping education policies and leadership strategies.
What are the admission requirements for a Master's in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies?
Admission requirements for the Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts from previous academic institutions
- A personal statement outlining career goals and leadership experience
- Professional experience in education or a related field (preferred)
- Three letters of recommendation (if required)
- Completion of the online application
Additional requirements may vary based on the applicant’s background and the university’s admission policies.
Can I pursue this degree online?
Yes, at AIU, you can pursue this degree online.
How long does it take to complete a Master's in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies?
The Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at AIU typically takes 12 to 24 months to complete, depending on the student’s pace, transfer credits, and course load. The flexible online format allows professionals to tailor their studies to their schedule.
Contact Us
Atlantic International University
900 Fort Street Mall 905 Honolulu, HI 96813 info@aiu.edu
Quick Links
Home | Online Courses | Available Courses | Virtual Campus | Career Center | Available Positions | Ask Career Coach | The Job Interview | Resume Writing | Accreditation | Areas of Study | Bachelor Degree Programs | Masters Degree Programs | Doctoral Degree Programs | Course & Curriculum | Human Rights | Online Library | Representations | Student Publication | Sponsors | General Information | Mission & Vision | School of Business and Economics | School of Science and Engineering | School of Social and Human Studies | Media Center | Admission Requirements | Apply Online | Tuition | Faculty & Staff | Distance Learning Overview | Student Testimonials | AIU Blogs | Register for Program | Privacy Policy | FAQ
