Master of Arts in Urban Educational Leardership
The Urban Educational Leadership, M.A. prepares students to work in urban contexts in and beyond the United States including metropolitan, inner, and outer ring cities. It aims to promote their global awareness of issues confronting education in densely populated communities through engagement with various leadership frameworks and practices. Students in the M. A. are prepared to influence policy, curriculum, pedagogy, andragogy, and professional development with an emphasis on educational ethics and quality -- whether working in or consulting with ministries, think tanks, non-governmental agencies, or boards or departments of education.
What you will learn
Students explore leadership theories, equity-focused practices, and global issues impacting urban education. The program prepares graduates to analyze and influence policy, curriculum, instruction, and professional development—always with a commitment to educational quality, inclusivity, and social justice. Through coursework, applied learning, and engagement with diverse community partners, students learn to lead collaboratively, support system-level improvement, and design solutions for real-world educational challenges in urban contexts.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles such as:
- Educational leader in urban school systems
- Policy analyst or advisor
- Curriculum or program director
- Consultant for ministries, NGOs, and educational organizations
- Leader within think tanks and advocacy groups
- Administrator in governmental or non-governmental education agencies
What to expect
This major shares foundational coursework with USF’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, offering a strong grounding in leadership theory, policy, organizational development, and equity-focused practice. Students engage with case studies, real-world problems, and leadership frameworks that reflect the complexities of urban education. Through collaboration with faculty, community partners, and peers, students develop the ability to navigate and influence urban educational systems while preparing for impactful leadership roles at local, national, and global levels.
