Transform K-12 education as a visionary leader. Empower teachers and students through the Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program.

The Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation Program is an online master’s degree program offered through the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis in the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s School of Education — the #1 school of education in the nation according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Education Graduate Schools rankings. The program is designed to equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to champion equitable opportunities for all students and excel in today’s dynamic educational landscape.
Graduates earn a master’s degree and are eligible to apply for Wisconsin principal licensure (WI 5051). Participants can also elect to pursue the Director of Curriculum and/or Director of Special Education and Pupil Services licensure (two courses respectively). This accelerated program empowers professionals to transition into impactful leadership roles, driving positive change in education.

Now accepting applications for the 2025 cohort.

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Upcoming Webinar

Topic: Discover Your Leadership Potential: Is School Principalship Right for You?

Date: Feb. 26

Time: 6:30 pm CT

Register

Description: Join Dr. Tina Salzman, Director of the Wisconsin Idea Principal Preparation program, for an insightful webinar on the path to school leadership. Drawing from her extensive experience as a teacher and administrator, Dr. Salzman offers a unique insider’s perspective on a principal’s governing role in K-12 education.

Degree At-a-Glance

Format

Online

Program Type

Master’s Degree

Commitment

15 months

Credits

30 graduate credits

Tuition

$800 per credit (resident and non-resident)
Additional fees may apply.

Application Deadline

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the cohort reaches capacity.

Final Application deadline is April 15.

Degree Conferred

Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis

Program Page in the UW Guide

Why choose this master’s degree

Wisconsin Principal Licence: Graduates are eligible to apply for Wisconsin principal licensure (WI 5051). Participants can also pursue the Director of Curriculum and/or Director of Special Education and Pupil Services licensure (two courses respectively).

Flexible & Accessible Online Program: Our flexible online course format is designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the country while balancing their career demands.

Equity Focus: The program empowers educational leaders with advanced equity-focused knowledge and practical skills to create and sustain socially just schools for all students.

Accelerated Format: The program is 15 months long and can be completed in just four semesters, starting in June and finishing in August next year.

High Quality: Learn from world-class faculty in the #1 ranked School of Education, home to the nation’s #2 Online Master’s in Educational Administration program (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).

Strong Community: Students move through the program as a cohort. This structure allows students to build their professional network and lasting relationships.

Contact Information

Tina Salzman. Has long blond hear with a back jacket and a red shirt.

For program and curriculum information, contact:
Tina Salzman, PhD
Program Director
tmsalzman@wisc.edu
608-263-2773

Shari Smith photo

To inquire about admission, contact:
Shari Smith
Senior Student Services Coordinator
ssmith@education.wisc.edu
608-263-2701