Leadership, Policy & Development

Academic Department

What We Do

The Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Program offers degrees at the master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral levels and includes learning experiences to meet state standards for the Principal and Administrator Licenses.

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Phone 970-351-1853
Location McKee Hall 418

Ready to Become a Leader in Education?

In the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Program, you will gain the skills and experience needed to lead schools and make a real difference in your community.

What degree is right for me?

Whether you choose a master’s, educational specialist, or doctoral program, you’ll be prepared to meet Colorado’s standards for Principal and Administrator Licenses. If you work in special education, you can choose to add the Special Education or Gifted Education Director License to your program. All of our degree pathways provide ways to apply leadership theory to your current and future leadership roles.

Why Choose UNC?

  • This program is designed for working professionals and provides high-quality instruction by faculty who have worked as school and district administrators. All UNC programs for principal, special education director, and administrator/superintendent licenses were reauthorized by the Colorado Department of Education in 2024. The program a full member of the University Council of Education Administration, which certifies educational leadership programs meet high standards.
  • Connect with a national network of educational leaders
  • Build lifelong professional relationships

Ready to lead positive change? At UNC, you’ll gain the confidence, skills, and connections to improve learning and the lives of students and communities.

Hear from our Alumni!

A portrait of Tonijo Niccoli

Principal of the Year

As a triple-alumna, I am a proud Bear through and through. My approach to leadership is simple: lead with heart, find the joy, and stay authentic. To me, leadership is about being exactly who you are and going 'all-in' for the people you serve. I am grateful for the growth, community, and the program’s legacy of excellence.

Tonijo Niccoli, alumna

B.A. in Elementary Education, M.A. in Special Education, & Ed.S. in Educational Leadership

Principal, New Meridian High School

A portrait of Nicole Peterson

Principal of the Year

My experience in the University of Northern Colorado Educational Leadership program was transformative because it deepened my understanding of school law, human resource management, instructional leadership, and purposeful leadership. What made the program especially meaningful was the lasting sense of community.

Nicole Peterson, alumna

Educational Leadership program

Principal, Brentwood Middle School

A portrait of Tonijo Niccoli
A portrait of Nicole Peterson

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