Master in Educational Leadership - Principal Preparation

The University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, combines a tradition of Franciscan values with contemporary academic programs designed to prepare students for ethical leadership and professional success. Founded in 1920, the university offers a liberal arts foundation alongside a broad range of professional and graduate programs that emphasize service, compassion and community engagement within a supportive campus culture.

With a student population of around 4,000 and an international community, the university prioritizes small class sizes, individualized attention and experiential learning. Programs span multiple disciplines and are structured to integrate academic work with practical experiences, internships and community-focused projects. Faculty mentorship and co-curricular opportunities help students develop both technical competencies and the interpersonal qualities valued by employers.

International students find a welcoming environment grounded in service-oriented values and practical career preparation. The university’s location in Joliet provides proximity to regional employers and cultural amenities while maintaining a close-knit campus atmosphere. Prospective students seeking a values-driven education that balances rigorous academics, community involvement and focused career support will discover a purpose-driven community ready to support academic growth and professional development.

The Master in Educational Leadership - Principal Preparation is a Master's degree for educators who want to become school administrators. This one-year program helps you develop leadership skills and leads to the P-12 Principal Endorsement.

The curriculum includes relevant coursework and a year-long internship with a Mentor Principal and Faculty Supervisor. You'll learn about administrative work and develop skills through hands-on experiences. The program is designed for teachers and school support personnel who want to serve as school building administrators.

After graduating, you can pursue careers as a Principal, Assistant Principal, School Administrator, or Superintendent. You'll also be prepared to work in education policy or as an Education Consultant. The skills you develop will help you lead schools and improve education systems.