Program of Study - Principal Certification Program - Accelerated Online Program
Program Overview
UTRGV’s online Principal Credential Program is designed to prepare you to effectively direct and advocate for academic excellence as well as lead positive change in today’s schools with special focus on diverse learners.
Students who have completed the Educational Leadership Master's degree
Most of the courses for principal certification are embedded in the coursework for the master's degree. Once the master's degree is completed, students who wish to pursue principal certification must apply to the certification program. Once admitted to the program, students will take two principal practicum courses. Students will be required to purchase a software license to store key documents, field-based work and assessments.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the principal credential program, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below:
- Master’s degree in Educational Leadership
- 3.0 GPA
- Two (2) years teaching experience
- Presentation of the following to the Faculty Admissions Committee. (1 hour)
- Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness
- Presentation of how you use student performance data to improve instruction
- Evidence of Leadership Activities
- Presentation of End-product from M.Ed. program
- Presentation of school site leadership roles/responsibilities
- Evidence of Teaching certificate (Updated)
- Evidence of Teacher Service Record
- Cleared Criminal Background Check
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.
Program Requirements
Required Courses (6 Credits)
Total Credit Hours: 6
Certification
Once program requirements have been completed, students will be eligible to take the state Principal TExES exam. Students will receive information regarding registration for the TExES while enrolled in the pre-practicum course. After completion of the two practicum courses and passing the TExES examination, students should apply for principal certification immediately. If TEA certification standards change between the time you complete the program and the time you apply for certification, you will be required to meet the new standards before being certified. This may mean taking additional courses or completing additional requirements.