Two WSU Vancouver students walking down a campus path surrounded by greenery
WSU Vancouver

Superintendent Certificate

Enhance School District Leadership

The Superintendent Certification Program prepares school district leaders to meet the complex leadership challenges of the 21st century. Specifically designed to engage and mentor current building principals and mid-level administrators, this program builds the vital skills needed to provide systemic leadership that leads to improvements in student learning. WSU Vancouver offers this program to help education professionals step into top-level executive roles with confidence.

Students participate in a 24-credit program where a hands-on internship occurs concurrently with advanced course work. Candidates meet once a month for eight months each year at various locations throughout the state. To accommodate working professionals, most seminars begin Friday afternoon and conclude Saturday afternoon. WSU Vancouver students can also choose to apply all of these course credits toward a Doctor of Education degree, which requires additional classes to reach a total of 72 credits.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the program requires a valid Teacher, Educational Staff Associate, or Administrator Certificate. Applicants must have already completed a master’s degree and must secure official school district support for the required concurrent internship.

Applications open early in the year for the next incoming cohort. The priority application deadline ensures premium consideration, though late applications are accepted on a space-available basis into the summer. Prospective students should contact the Academic Coordinator at van.education@wsu.edu to receive an application form and additional program information.

Advanced Doctoral Path

Students looking to maximize their credentials can pursue the Doctor of Education degree in conjunction with their certificate. Because all 24 credits from the superintendent program transfer directly into the doctoral program of study, students establish a significant head start on the higher degree.

Contact us

B.A. & MIT (Elementary/Secondary)

Education Academic Coordinator
Email Address van.education@wsu.edu
Phone (360) 546-9673

Certifications, M.A., Ed.M & Ed.D

Education Academic Coordinator
Email Address van.education@wsu.edu
Phone (360) 546-9075
Butch, the WSU mascot interacting with students outdoors near campus buildings

Plan Your Educational Leadership Degree

Moving from building-level administration to district-wide leadership requires a clear academic and professional roadmap. This certificate aligns your monthly weekend seminars directly with your district internship, allowing you to balance current employment with executive preparation. Advisors help you navigate the 24-credit curriculum, coordinate your district field experience, and seamlessly map your credits into the doctoral track if you choose to pursue an executive doctorate.

Schedule an Advising Appointment