Tier 1 Educational Leadership: Certification Only

The University of West Georgia is the state's best in preparing certified leaders. As the state's largest and most successful program, UWG developed nearly one-third of Georgia's newly certified leaders in 2020. 

The Tier 1 Educational Leadership Certification is considered entry-level that prepares candidates for P-12 school level positions below the principal and for district level positions that do not supervise principals. All interested candidates currently without leadership certification in Georgia must start with this program as Tier 1 is an initial certification program designed for classroom teachers and candidates in leadership roles who intend to assume leadership positions in the future.

The Tier 1 program leads to a certification that's clear and renewable. This certificate is earned completely online. Candidates must complete a master's degree (or higher) first,  and then add the Tier 1 Leadership Certification.

This is a certification-only program that may be added to an existing master's degree (or specialist and doctoral degree). The Tier 1 Educational Leadership Certification is considered entry-level while preparing candidates for P-12 school-level positions below the principal and for district-level positions that do not supervise principals.

• Official transcripts from all schools that have conferred degrees (Bachelor's, Master's, etc.) are required and should be sent directly to the UWG Graduate Admissions Office.

• A master's degree from a nationally or regionally accredited institution

• T5 or S5 professional teaching certificate

• 3.0 or better cumulative GPA on graduate work

• Submit proof of GACE Ethics for Leaders-Test 352. Complete this requirement at least 7 days prior to the deadline to allow time to receive the results in an official format. 

Not all programs are available to residents in all states. Please check the institution's State Authorization and Professional Licensure website(s) to ensure you reside in an authorized state.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges