Photo of teacher in crowded high school hallway

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

In order to gain admission into the Online Educational Leadership master’s program students must submit:

  • An application
  • Official copies of the academic transcript from each college and/or university attended, documenting an earned undergraduate degree. Electronic transcripts are recommended to expedite the application process. You can often request this directly from your institution or by using electronic processing through sites such as the National Student Clearinghouse.
  • Short answer questions
  • Two (2) letter of recommendation from persons qualified to evaluate the applicant’s promise of academic achievement and potential for professional growth.
  • Resume
  • Copy of Teaching Certificate (not required if applying as Degree Only). If you are applying as degree only and not seeking principal or supervisor certificates, please contact the program advisor, Tara Campos, for additional information.

Official Transcripts

  • Official transcripts are required from each school you have attended.
  • An official transcript bears the raised seal of an academic institution and is sent directly to The Graduate School by the institution. You may also include your official transcript in a sealed envelope with the institution’s registrar’s signature or seal with your application.
  • If you studied under a maiden name or prior name, your institution must indicate both prior and current names on your transcript.
  • Do not request a transcript from the Montclair State University Registrar if Montclair is listed on your application as a previous or current institution. The Graduate School will obtain your Montclair State University transcript directly.
  • Including your U.S. social security number on your transcript or transmittal sheet will expedite processing of your application.

2 Short Answer Questions (maximum of 250-350 words each)

The prompts are:

  1. Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership in your school/district OR describe a challenge you have faced that has influenced your leadership approach.
  2. The Educational Leadership Department at Montclair State University aims to prepare culturally responsive and anti-racist leaders who create more equitable schools and a more just society.  Describe some ways you could contribute to supporting equity and diversity in your school/district.

Letters of Recommendation

  • All applicants, other than non-degree applicants, are required to submit letters of recommendation to The Graduate School. Recommendations from professors in your undergraduate major field of study who are familiar with your academic work are ideal.
  •  If you have been out of school for a considerable time period, you should submit letters from employers, supervisors or other professionals who can comment on your background, experiences and motivation to succeed. Friends, family members or fellow students are not appropriate sources for letters of recommendation, and many graduate programs will not review your application if it includes letters from these sources.

All candidates must meet application and admission requirements as defined by Graduate Admissions.