Master of Education in Educational Leadership, Vancouver Island University

Nanaimo, British Columbia

24 Months

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About this course

If you're looking to elevate your career in education, VIU's Master of Education in Educational Leadership is a fantastic choice. Designed for both practicing and aspiring education professionals, this program focuses on bringing educational and instructional leadership into schools. It offers a solid foundation in school administration, educational psychology, and research, equipping students with the practical, ethical, and social skills needed to solve problems, manage conflicts, and foster growth. Graduates often find leadership roles within the education sector, both domestically and abroad. The program's flexible formats—full-time, weekends and summer, distance, and laddering—allow you to choose the option that fits your schedule and location. Whether on campus or online, you'll develop the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and improve educational environments effectively.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly recommended for those aiming for leadership roles in education, as it offers a comprehensive curriculum rooted in current leadership standards and extensive faculty expertise. The flexible delivery options cater to working professionals and those in remote areas, making it accessible for a wide range of students. The focus on practical skills, ethical decision-making, and research prepares graduates to handle real-world challenges in educational settings. Additionally, the program's emphasis on Indigenous Education, social justice, and collaborative culture makes it relevant for today's diverse educational environments.

Specialisation

This program specializes in educational leadership, preparing students for roles such as principals and vice-principals. It balances research, policy, and practical leadership skills, with a focus on guiding schools through shared values, vision, and strategic planning. The coursework emphasizes leadership qualities like fostering collaboration, promoting inclusivity, and managing diverse school communities, aligning with BC's leadership standards for school leaders. Through this specialization, students learn to support literacy, Indigenous education, curriculum development, and systemic thinking, all essential for effective school management and improvement.

Course fees

Application fees

12.79L

1st year tuition fees

12.79L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete this program, students must fulfill the coursework component, including core courses like Foundations of Educational Leadership, Educational Change, and Leadership Values and Ethics, totaling 40 credits. Students must maintain a minimum grade of ‘B’ in each semester and meet progression criteria such as successful completion of the research projects and a final major project or thesis. For the laddering option, only 15 credits are required, and students can exit with a graduate diploma if they choose. The program also requires meeting specific admission standards, including a bachelor’s degree, teaching experience, and language proficiency if applicable.

English language test

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

PTE

IELTS

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are well-placed to assume leadership roles within the education sector, including positions like Principal and Vice-Principal. There is a strong demand for qualified leaders, with over 1,000 administrative vacancies anticipated in BC over the next five years. Many school districts prefer or require a master's degree from a recognized post-secondary institution. The skills gained in this program also prepare students for leadership in educational research, policy development, and community engagement, offering a range of opportunities both within Canada and internationally.

FAQs

What are the delivery options for this program?

VIU offers four formats—full-time on campus, weekends and summer sessions, distance online learning, and laddering for previous diploma holders. This flexibility allows students to choose the format best suited to their professional and personal commitments.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants need a bachelor's degree, preferably in education, with a ‘B’ grade point average in the final two years, along with teaching experience and confidential assessment reports. English proficiency is required for international students, and additional documents like a résumé and letter of intent are also needed.

What is the cost of the program?

For domestic students, tuition is approximately $18,485.60 for 40 credits, plus additional fees. International students should expect to pay around $28,184.80, excluding living expenses and textbooks. Fees are subject to change annually.