Certificate of Advanced Study Program
Program Code: CAS-ED
Major Code: ECP

Elementary Education, Literacy and Educational Leadership Department
Bacon 302, (716) 878-5916
elementaryeducation.buffalostate.edu/

Enrollment in all teacher education programs follows the guidelines for "Admission to Teacher Education Programs" found in this catalog.  Applicants who do not yet meet all admissions criteria should consult with the department.

All applicants for Professional Certification in New York State must show evidence of completing the required seminar in Harassment, Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Discrimination in Schools: Prevention and Intervention (DASA Training). 

This post-master’s degree program leads to a certificate of advanced study (CAS) in educational leadership and a recommendation for New York State certification of both School Building Leader and School District Leader.

Admission Requirements

1. Evidence of a valid permanent or professional certificate in classroom teaching, pupil personnel service, or administration that was issued by any state or national government (submit one copy with application).
2. A master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
3. Three recommendation forms that attest to applicant’s potential as an educational leader.  Recommenders’ email address must be entered in the online application.
4. Three years of successful teaching and/or supervisory and/or pupil personnel service experience in schools or agencies (pre-K-12).
5. Statement of leadership interests, goals, and relevant professional and community service.
6. An interview providing evidence of successful leadership potential.
7. Evidence of satisfactory verbal and written English language skills.

Each admission requirement is scored according to criteria on an evaluation rubric. The total score is compiled so that any one requirement will not preclude admission, but an overall snapshot of potential student success will be considered.

In addition, all applicants should adhere to the requirements detailed in the Admission to a Graduate Program section in this catalog and utilize any related Supplemental Application Forms.

Program Requirements

1. A minimum GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) is required to remain in the program. Coursework (including transfer credit) and field and internship experiences must be completed within six years of the date of enrollment in the program.
2. A maximum of 6 credit hours of independent study may be included in the program.
3. After the successful completion of EDL 703 (Educational Leadership Internship, a 3-credit course), students may enroll in EDL 705 (School District Internship, a 2-credit course). At the completion of each internship experience, a letter grade of S (Satisfactory) or U (Unsatisfactory) is awarded.
4. All coursework must receive a minimum grade of C to meet program requirements.
5. A maximum of 12 graduate credit may be transferred upon approval. Only grades of B or better will be accepted as transfer credit.