If you’ve been thinking about stepping into a school leadership role—whether as a principal, assistant principal, or instructional leader—there’s a reason that idea keeps coming back. Because you’re ready.
You’ve already built a strong foundation in the classroom. You’ve coached colleagues, led teams, or shaped your school’s culture in meaningful ways. Now, you’re looking for a way to formalize that experience and move forward.
That’s where a principal certification comes in. For many public schools, certification isn’t just helpful—it’s required. If you already hold a master’s degree and a supervisor certificate and have five or more years of teaching experience, this credential is often the final step toward leadership roles.
But for busy educators, time and flexibility matter. And that’s why more professionals are choosing online principal certification programs to help them grow—on their schedule, without hitting pause on their careers.
Why Get Your Principal Certification?
This isn’t just about a title. It’s about impact.
Becoming a certified school principal means you’ll have the authority, tools, and training to influence not just one classroom—but an entire school community. It means:
- Advocating for equity and student success
- Mentoring and inspiring teachers
- Building stronger partnerships with families
- Creating a vision for school improvement—and making it real
If those ideas excite you, it’s probably time to look into a principal certification program.
Why Online Principal Certification Programs Make Sense for Today’s Educators
The reality? Most teachers and supervisors don’t have time to sit in a lecture hall every week. That’s why principal certification online options have become a game-changer.
When the program is online and thoughtfully designed, you can:
- Learn when it works for you, with asynchronous classes that fit around your teaching schedule
- Stay rooted in your community—apply new leadership tools right where you are
- Move at a steady pace, typically finishing your certification in about 24 months part-time
- Save time and travel while earning a credential that can unlock powerful leadership opportunities
And if the program also meets state requirements, like those set by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE), it becomes a clear path forward.
A Closer Look at Rowan University’s Online Principal Certification Program
If you’re ready to take that next step, Rowan University offers a Principal Preparation Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) that’s 100% online and built for working educators.
It’s designed specifically for New Jersey teachers who:
- Already hold a master’s degree and supervisor certificate
- Have five or more years of full-time experience
- Wish to serve as a principal in public schools
Rowan’s program is structured for maximum flexibility—offering asynchronous online classes you can complete at your own pace, along with benchmark checkpoints to support your progress. After completing 12 prescribed credits, you’ll complete the School Leader Licensure Assessment (SLLA) and work with your academic advisor to plan your practicum/internship sequence. These checkpoints ensure you’re on track for successful program completion and certification eligibility.
While Rowan’s program meets the academic requirements for principal certification in New Jersey, the NJDOE is the official certifying body. Students must fulfill all state licensure steps, including passing the SLLA and submitting required documentation.
New Jersey teachers may also be eligible to apply through the New Jersey Teacher Outreach Program (NJTOP®), which supports access to affordable graduate-level coursework for in-state educators.
What You’ll Gain
In Rowan’s online program, you’ll develop core leadership skills across:
- Instructional leadership and teacher supervision
- School finance, ethics, and operations
- Change management and school improvement
- Real-world experience through a 300-hour internship
Courses include:
- Introduction to the Principalship
- Law and Ethics for School Leadership
- Building Organizational Capacity
- Instructional Leadership and Supervision
- Change for School Improvement
- Practicum in Administration and Supervision
For a complete list of courses and official program requirements, please visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
You may also be eligible to transfer up to 12 credits into the program if you’ve earned a grade of B or higher—helping you save time and reach your goals even faster. Can’t transfer credits? You can take additional courses from Rowan’s Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Administration program to meet the 36-credit requirement.
Why Choose Rowan?
Rowan isn’t just another online option. It’s one of the fastest-growing public research universities in the country—with a proven track record of supporting educators and advancing educational equity.
Rowan’s Difference
- 100% Online. 100% Flexible. Designed for real-life educators balancing full-time work and personal commitments.
- High-quality, NJDOE-aligned curriculum that meets certification requirements
- Dedicated online student support—including 24/7 tutoring through Brainfuse, peer-to-peer mentoring, academic workshops, and advising—ensures you always have the resources you need, even from a distance
- Real connections with faculty who understand the demands of today’s schools
- An alumni network that’s 80% based in New Jersey—so your degree has local impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a principal certification?
Principal certification is the credential required to serve as a school principal or administrator in most public school systems. It ensures candidates meet the academic and experiential requirements to lead schools effectively.
Can I get my principal certification online?
Yes. Rowan University offers a fully online principal certification program designed to help you meet New Jersey’s requirements without disrupting your current role.
How long does the program take?
You can complete the certificate in approximately 24 months on a part-time schedule. It includes 36 credits and a 300-hour internship.
Who should apply for a principal certification program?
It’s designed for experienced educators who already hold a master’s degree and a supervisor certification, and who want to earn principal certification to qualify for administrative leadership roles in public schools.
Does this program automatically grant principal certification in New Jersey?
No. While Rowan’s program meets the academic requirements set by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE), the NJDOE is the agency that grants certification. It’s your responsibility to meet all state licensure requirements, including passing exams and submitting documentation.
Make Your Move Toward School Leadership With a Principal Certification
You’ve built your reputation as a trusted educator. Now it’s time to take the lead—formally, confidently, and with the credential that proves you’re ready.
Explore a program built for real-world educators who are ready to create lasting change.
👉 Request more information about Rowan’s Principal Preparation Certificate
👉 Apply now to take the next step in your school leadership journey
Your school needs bold, compassionate leaders. Let’s make sure you’re one of them.