Earning principal licensure is an important step for Ohio educators who want to lead schools and make a lasting impact on student outcomes. The pathway requires academic preparation, leadership experience and a commitment to fostering school-wide success.
Graduates of the online Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) – Educational Administration with Principal Licensure program from Youngstown State University (YSU) are prepared to pursue their license while continuing to teach. With a flexible format and a curriculum aligned with Ohio standards, YSU’s online program supports aspiring school leaders through every stage of the licensure process.
Who Needs Principal Licensure in Ohio?
Ohio requires principal licensure for any educator serving in a leadership capacity within a public preK-12 school setting. This includes principals, assistant principals, vice principals and school administrators. Whether overseeing curriculum implementation, managing staff or promoting school health and safety, these roles all demand the formal credentials that come with state licensure.
The Ohio Department of Education requires principal licensure to ensure that school leaders are fully prepared to handle both academic and operational responsibilities. Licensed administrators are expected to uphold state and district standards, support teacher development, and foster a safe and inclusive learning environment. Having this credential signals a readiness to lead schools with accountability, integrity and a deep understanding of the educational environment.
To qualify for these leadership positions, educators must demonstrate both instructional experience and administrative training. Earning principal licensure ensures that school leaders understand the responsibilities associated with supervision, evaluation, operations and compliance within the state’s education system.
What Are the Requirements for Ohio Principal Licensure?
To become a licensed principal in Ohio, candidates must hold a valid teaching license and complete an approved graduate-level program focused on educational leadership. The state also requires at least two years of successful teaching experience in a PreK-12 setting and a passing score on the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) Educational Leadership Exam #015. These prerequisites ensure that school leaders bring both instructional knowledge and adequate administrative preparation to the role.
YSU’s online principal licensure M.S.Ed. program is designed to meet these requirements, including licensure-aligned coursework and support for preparing for Ohio’s administrative licensure exam. Candidates must also pass background checks and receive a formal recommendation from the dean or head of their educator-preparation program to be eligible for licensure.
What You’ll Learn in an Online Master’s in Educational Administration Program
An online master’s degree in educational administration prepares educators to lead with confidence and vision. Students gain a strong foundation in school law, curriculum development and organizational leadership, along with skills in budgeting, staff evaluation and school improvement planning. These core competencies are essential for managing daily school operations and driving academic success.
In YSU’s program, students explore core courses in instructional supervision and community relations that emphasize ethical leadership, data-informed decision-making, and strategies for supporting a range of learning environments, equipping graduates to lead schools that serve the needs of all students. In addition to technical skills, the program also emphasizes leadership traits that help build strong school communities. Students develop competencies in communication, team-building and conflict resolution, skills essential for managing staff, addressing parent and community concerns, and navigating the challenges of school leadership with professionalism and empathy.
Why Should You Consider an Online Master’s in Educational Administration Program?
An online degree program offers the flexibility working educators need to pursue leadership credentials without putting their current careers on hold. With multiple start dates and 100% online coursework, YSU’s program is structured to fit around teaching schedules and personal responsibilities. This format allows students to progress at a steady pace while applying what they learn directly in their school settings.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for an elementary, middle school or high school principal is $104,070 per year. In addition to the personal fulfillment of guiding youth into the future, this path also offers a strong financial incentive.
Inside the Online Degree Program Experience
YSU’s program meets the specific requirements outlined by the Ohio Department of Education for a clear pathway to certification. Affordable tuition rates and focused coursework help make this program accessible and practical for educators ready to take the next step in their careers.
YSU online programs introduce educators to digital platforms and tools used in today’s school environments, preparing them for the increasingly technology-driven educational landscape. From virtual collaboration spaces to data-tracking systems, these technologies mirror what many administrators use in their daily work. Gaining fluency in these tools during graduate study can give future principals an awareness of similar programs and a head start in managing school operations efficiently.
Build Your Future as a School Leader
Earning principal licensure in Ohio opens the door to meaningful leadership roles in schools across the state. For experienced educators looking to expand their impact, a master’s degree in educational administration provides the training and credentials necessary to move forward with confidence.
YSU’s online M.S.Ed. – Educational Administration with Principal Licensure program combines academic rigor, flexibility and licensure alignment to support aspiring administrators at every stage. Contact admissions today and start building your future as a school leader.
