K-12 Leadership Programs
Cultivate your leadership potential in K-12 settings at the nationally #1 ranked School of Education. Our school takes pride in offering multiple graduate programs designed to support K-12 educators and those they impact – both inside and outside the classroom.
Grounded in research, these programs produce expert teachers, administrators, coaches, and leaders ready to drive positive change. Plus, with a commitment to flexibility, our online and in-person formats allow working professionals to complete their academic journey at a pace that’s right for them, no matter where they are.
Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation
Program Director: Tina Salzman (tmsalzman@wisc.edu)
Format: Online
The Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program is a fully online graduate program designed to transform education professionals into effective, equity-driven K-12 leaders. Working educators can study from anywhere and complete the accelerated program within 15 months, starting in June and concluding the following August.
Upon successful completion, students earn a master’s degree and are eligible to apply for Wisconsin principal licensure (W5051), provided they have met all DPI requirements. A Director of Curriculum and/or Director of Special Education and Pupil Services licensure is also available with two additional courses and field experience respectively.
Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis: K-12 Leadership, MS
Program Director: Tina Salzman (tmsalzman@wisc.edu)
Format: In-person at Madison, WI
In addition to the online format, UW–Madison also offers an in-person principal preparation program with similar features — including the same licensure (W5051), accelerated timeline, and flexible scheduling for working educators. This option is ideal for those who prefer face-to-face learning and want to engage directly with faculty and peers at our Madison campus.
Similarly, upon successful completion, students can elect to pursue licensure as Director of Curriculum and/or Director of Special Education and Pupil Services, which requires two additional courses and field experience, respectively.
Master’s in Sport Leadership
Program Director: Sara Jimenez-Soffa (jimenezsoffa@wisc.edu)
Format: Online
The MS in Sports Leadership program prepares students for success in their chosen athletic field. In as few as twelve months, graduates will be ready to take their career to the next level in coaching, athletic administration, professional sports, and more. With rolling admissions and a completely online format, this program allows students to pursue a degree at a pace and place that’s right for them.
Wisconsin Idea Executive Educational Leadership Preparation Program, PhD
Program Director: Barbara Sramek (bjsramek@wisc.edu)
Format: In-person at Madison, WI
Wisconsin Idea Executive Educational Leadership Preparation Program is dedicated to shaping education professionals into innovative superintendents and directors of instruction. Conducted in person at Madison, the program’s unique flexible format allows students to effectively pursue a degree while still working full time. After four years of study, graduates will be adept in multiple academic areas, positioning themselves to enact impactful change at system-wide levels.