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Master’s in Leadership for Educational Organizations

Prepare to lead change and promote student success in higher education with CU Denver’s online MA program emphasizing equity and social justice.

Program at a Glance

CU Denver’s MA in Leadership for Educational Organizations with a concentration in Leading Change for Student Success in Higher Education is tailored for emerging to mid-level professionals aiming to enhance their leadership roles within higher education institutions, policy and research organizations, governmental, and non-profit entities. The program integrates current issues with historical, philosophical, theoretical, and equity-minded foundations to explore and effect change in higher education or related organizations. 

  • Degree Level
    Master's
  • School & College
    School of Education & Human Development
  • Total Credit Hours
    30
  • Class Type
    100% Online
  • Time Commitment
    Full-Time or Part-Time
  • Start Term(s)
    Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview

This program integrates current issues with historical, philosophical, theoretical, and equity-minded foundations as a basis to discover, explore and effect change in higher education or related organizations. You’ll also have opportunities to connect with some of the nation’s leading higher education experts and organizations through courses, engagements, and case studies. All these experiences will help you evolve as an educational leader in times of disruption and change while achieving new performance levels.  Our program graduates are recognized for being strongly prepared and committed to providing culturally informed, equity-focused leadership. 

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Upon completing the degree, you’ll be positioned to pursue a wide range of roles within educational organizations, including student and academic affairs, admissions, academic advising, alumni relations, diversity and inclusion roles, and/or to pursue a doctoral degree. 

Tuition Breakdown

Credit Cost for Residents and Non-Residents
ResidentNon-Resident
$464* per credit$557* per credit

*See Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page for undergraduate tuition disclaimer. 

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Courses

Ideal for working professionals, our program is designed to fit your schedule. You won’t have to interrupt your career to earn your degree. The 30-hour degree program is delivered in an 8-week online format with planned synchronous activities including a capstone course with an applied focus on learning. The program is designed to allow students to complete in two years. The courses will be offered on a rotating schedule and not every course will be offered each term. Please refer to the courses listed in the student handbook to plan your program.

Example Courses

Career Outlook

Graduates of the MA in Leadership for Educational Organizations are prepared to take on impactful leadership roles in education and beyond. Whether advancing in K-12 or higher education, leading nonprofit or government initiatives, or shaping education policy and administration, this degree provides the skills needed to drive meaningful change. 

With a growing demand for education leaders who prioritize equity, innovation, and student success, graduates can pursue a variety of career paths that influence learning environments and organizational effectiveness.

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What You'll Need to Apply

Admissions

Admission requirements and deadlines vary based on the program. In addition, you will have different requirements depending on if you are a first-time student, a transfer student, or an international student. 

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Guidance Every Step of the Way

Get Personalized Support for Your Application

When you’re ready to apply for your online master’s degree in leadership for educational organizations, your Enrollment Navigator will help walk you through the entire process, from gathering required materials and submitting your application to checking your admissions status and enrolling in CU Denver. After you submit your completed application and required materials, you can check your admission status online.  

If you have additional questions about admission requirements for the online communications degree program or would like help starting an application, connect with the CU Denver Enrollment Team for more details.  

  • This program trains higher education professionals to navigate constant change. Leadership and higher education courses are built on equity and social justice, woven throughout the curriculum. Faculty, who are current or recent education leaders, offer scholar-practitioner perspectives on enacting equity-minded leadership. Students, already working as administrators and mid-level leaders, apply their learning immediately in professional settings, making it more meaningful. The capstone project allows them to research a topic of interest in higher education leadership, present findings, and explore its impact. It’s rewarding to see students grow as leaders, and this program is an excellent path for those looking to advance their careers or pursue a doctoral degree in higher education.

    Elena Sandoval-Lucero, PhD
    Clinical Assistant Professor, Leadership for Educational Organizations
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Tuition & Financial Aid

Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.

Tuition is determined based on which CU Denver program is chosen, undergraduate or graduate level, and your resident status. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify. 

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Take the Next Step

Ready to make an impact in higher ed? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by calling us at 303-860-5604 or filling out the form above for more information.