Educational Leadership (Higher Education)
The Educational Leadership (Higher Education) Master of Education program at the University of North Carolina provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and manage institutions of higher education effectively. The curriculum emphasizes organizational leadership, policy analysis, and strategic planning, preparing learners to address challenges in academic administration and student affairs. Students develop leadership skills, strategic decision making, policy evaluation and critical thinking capabilities, equipping them to guide institutions toward academic excellence and operational efficiency.
Throughout the program, learners engage in research projects, case studies, and practical exercises that integrate theoretical knowledge with real world educational leadership scenarios. Faculty mentorship guides students in developing problem solving, communication, and management skills necessary for effective institutional leadership. By combining leadership theory with applied experience, students strengthen administrative competence, research and analytical skills, decision making abilities and strategic insight, ensuring they are well prepared for leadership roles in higher education settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Educational Leadership (Higher Education)
- Degree Type: Master of Education
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 August 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Educational Leadership
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 Foundations in Educational Leadership
• Leadership Theories in Higher Education
• Organizational Behavior and Management
• Higher Education Policy and Governance
• Research Methods in Education
Semester 2 Applied Leadership and Administration
• Strategic Planning and Institutional Effectiveness
• Financial Management in Higher Education
• Ethics and Legal Issues in Academic Leadership
• Capstone Project in Educational Leadership
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for leadership and administrative roles in higher education institutions, where strong management, strategic planning, and policy analysis skills are essential. Many pursue careers in academic administration, student affairs, educational policy development and institutional research, contributing to the effective operation and strategic growth of colleges and universities. Others work in nonprofit educational organizations, government agencies or consulting firms, supporting leadership initiatives, policy implementation, and program evaluation. The programs focus on applied leadership, strategic planning, and policy analysis equips graduates to navigate complex educational environments and drive institutional success.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of educational leadership with practical administrative skills in higher education. Its curriculum emphasizes organizational management, policy evaluation, strategic planning, and applied problem solving, enabling learners to address challenges faced by academic institutions effectively. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing decision making, leadership, analytical, and research skills that are critical for professional success in higher education. Through case studies, applied projects, and capstone experiences, learners strengthen leadership and management expertise, strategic planning skills, policy analysis abilities and administrative problem solving, preparing them to lead, innovate, and drive positive change within colleges and universities. The program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to influence institutional success and foster academic excellence in diverse higher education settings.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
