The University of St. Thomas

School of Education

Program Features

Superintendent Licensure
Preparing Minnesota Education Leaders

The competency-based curriculum is founded on a practical, innovative assessment of your learning needs. The five areas of study are: pre-assessment, foundation, concentration, electives, and portfolio and reassessment.

This program is designed for busy working professionals. Classes are typically held one evening per week and occasional Saturdays.

Through a portfolio development process, you will demonstrate competency in the skill areas needed to lead Minnesota's K-12 districts.

Learn the foundations of leadership by:

  • Meeting the criteria for licensure as a superintendent as specified by the state of Minnesota.
  • Gaining knowledge and understanding of the foundations of leadership.
  • Increasing knowledge of content related to administrative practice in education.
  • Expanding knowledge and understanding of organizational theory related to administrative practice.
  • Developing skills to analyze, and implement administrative policy.
  • Adding knowledge and understanding of leadership theory.
  • Developing and implement leadership skills.
  • Using research skills for program planning, policy analysis and evaluation.  

A Rigorous, Quality Program


Superintendent Licensure requires three years of successful classroom teaching experience with a valid classroom teaching license.

An applicant for licensure as a superintendent must:

  • Complete an education specialist, doctoral program, or a program consisting of a master's degree plus 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in school administration.
  • Earn at least 320 hours or eight weeks of field experience completed within 12 continuous months. Act as an administrative aide to a licensed and practicing school principal or educational administrator in elementary or secondary schools.
  • A two-year nonrenewable provisional license will be issued for individuals seeking entry into a position as a superintendent. The candidate must be enrolled in an approved administrative licensure program for licensure as a superintendent.