If you’re a passionate educator looking to expand your impact without leaving the classroom, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Teacher Leadership could be the perfect next step. Whether you’re mentoring colleagues, developing curriculum, or inspiring school-wide change, you’re already showing signs of leadership. This degree helps you formalize that influence and move into new roles—without stepping away from the students who inspire you.
But what exactly can you do with a master’s in educational leadership?
Let’s explore what teacher leadership looks like, the doors this degree can open, and why Rowan University’s 100% online program might be the right fit for your future.
What Is Teacher Leadership?
Teacher leadership is the practice of leading from within the classroom. It’s about making a difference beyond your own students by guiding colleagues, shaping school culture, and improving learning outcomes across your district.
Examples of teacher leadership include:
- Mentoring new educators
- Leading professional learning communities
- Collaborating on curriculum development
- Influencing schoolwide policy and instructional practices
- Advocating for equity, inclusion, and innovation in education
You don’t need an official title to be a teacher leader—but earning a master’s in educational leadership can give you the skills, credentials, and confidence to formalize your role and expand your impact.
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Educational Leadership?
Earning a graduate degree is an investment in your future—and one that opens the door to meaningful, upwardly mobile roles across the education landscape.
Graduates of Rowan University’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership program are prepared to pursue leadership-focused roles in K–12 and postsecondary settings. These positions offer competitive salaries and strong career outlooks.
Here are just a few of the potential career paths:
- Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary
Median Salary: $104,000 | Projected Growth: 5% - Education Administrators, Postsecondary
Median Salary: $104,000 | Projected Growth: 7% - Education Teachers, Postsecondary
Median Salary: $84,000 | Projected Growth: 10%
This degree equips you to lead change at every level—within your classroom, your school, and the broader field of education.
Educational Leadership Skills That Set You Apart
Rowan’s program emphasizes the real-world skills today’s leaders need to make an impact—right now and in the future. You’ll master:
- Strategic planning and data-driven decision-making
- Organizational leadership and team development
- Culturally responsive communication and community engagement
- Legal and ethical considerations in education
Through a mix of coursework, case studies, and field-based internships, you’ll graduate ready to lead in dynamic and diverse educational settings.
Why Now Is the Time to be a Teacher Leader
There’s never been a more urgent need for visionary educators. As schools navigate equity gaps, teacher burnout, and technology-driven shifts, there’s growing demand for leaders who can inspire, adapt, and advocate.
Whether you’re an early-career educator passionate about systems-level improvement or a seasoned teacher ready to take on broader influence, Rowan’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership gives you the foundation to lead effectively—and ethically.
Why Choose an Online M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership?
Online graduate programs like Rowan University’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership are built for educators who need flexibility without compromising quality. Designed for working professionals, Rowan’s fully online format allows you to advance your career while continuing to teach.
Built for Working Educators
- 100% online coursework—no campus visits required
- Asynchronous learning so you can study on your schedule
- Designed to fit around full-time teaching and personal responsibilities
- Finish in as little as 24 months
Designed for Practical Impact
The program emphasizes leadership through teaching excellence, continuous learning, and collaboration in diverse school communities. Core courses focus on:
- Curriculum development and instructional improvement
- Organizational leadership and change
- Legal and ethical issues in education
- Analysis of classroom teaching practices
- Teacher leadership in practice
You’ll also choose a Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS) to develop deeper expertise in areas such as:
- Educational Technology
- Special Education
- ESL/Bilingual Education
- Reading & Literacy
- School Public Relations
- Holocaust and Genocide Education
To view the full list of available COGS and courses, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
Why Choose Rowan University for Your Master’s in Educational Leadership?
Rowan University is more than just a place of learning—it’s a trusted partner in your professional growth and a Top 100 public research institution known for academic excellence and innovation.
A Legacy in Education
Founded in 1923 as a teacher’s college, Rowan has nearly a century-long legacy of preparing educators to lead. Its very first degree was in elementary education, and its first doctoral program was the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. Today, that commitment continues—elevated by innovation, experience, and real-world impact.
A Leader in Online Academics
With a wide range of fully online programs and a growing national reputation, Rowan Online is built for modern learners. You’ll get the same academic excellence online as you would on campus.
Flexible and Affordable
- Study on your time, your terms
- Competitive tuition and scholarship opportunities
- Learn from experienced faculty committed to your success
Career-Focused Education
Rowan’s emphasis on career advancement, affordability, and quality ensures that your degree delivers real value. You’ll graduate with the skills, confidence, and credentials to lead.
Support Beyond the Classroom
Earning your degree online doesn’t mean doing it alone. Rowan is committed to supporting your academic, personal, and professional growth at every stage of your journey. As an online student, you’ll have access to a wide range of resources designed to help you succeed:
- 24/7 tutoring via Brainfuse
- Peer support and mentorship
- Virtual workshops on study strategies, time management, and well-being
Choosing the Right Online Master’s in Educational Leadership Program
At Rowan, we believe that academic excellence and career preparation go hand in hand. When choosing your master’s program, look for:
- Accreditation by respected bodies such as CAEP
- A curriculum rooted in real-world leadership practice
- Flexible formats, including online options for working professionals
- Faculty with deep experience in K–12 and higher education
- Hands-on internships to help you apply your learning in authentic leadership contexts
Rowan’s online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership offers all of the above—plus a strong alumni network and career support system to help you succeed well beyond graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About an Online M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership
Is an online M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership only for future principals?
No. This program is ideal for educators who want to lead from within the classroom or take on roles such as instructional coach, curriculum lead, or mentor teacher. It’s designed for those who want to grow as leaders without necessarily moving into administration.
Can I complete the program while teaching full-time?
Absolutely. The 100% online, asynchronous format is built for working professionals. You can complete coursework on your schedule—without interrupting your teaching career. The program is designed to be completed in as little as 24 months and requires just 30 graduate credits, making it a manageable path to leadership while you continue teaching full-time.
Will I get real-world, hands-on experience in the program?
Yes. The program includes field-based experiences that allow you to apply what you’re learning in authentic educational settings.
Is Rowan’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership program accredited?
Yes. Rowan University’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership is offered through its CAEP-accredited College of Education, ensuring the program meets nationally recognized standards for educator preparation.
Start Your Leadership Journey at Rowan
If you’re asking yourself what is teacher leadership or what can I do with a master’s in educational leadership, Rowan University has the answer—and the opportunity.
Take the next step in your professional journey and explore a program built for educators who are ready to lead. With a Rowan degree, you won’t just move up in your career—you’ll move education forward.
Learn more about Rowan’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and apply today.
