Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Graduate Studies Office, along with the Division of Education are launching a new superintendent certificate for students, working professionals and job seekers starting in fall 2023.

Those pursuing the superintendent certificate must have a master’s degree and building-level (principal) certification before admission to the program. Hybrid courses are available via Zoom.

Dr. James Bell, vice president for academic affairs, said the certificate program will allow the university to help meet a critical need for qualified superintendents in the region and state.

“The product of two years of research and planning in the Division of Education, the program was designed to align tightly with the state Department of Education and National Educational Leadership Preparation standards, ensuring that program completers will be well prepared to assume their leadership roles,” Bell said.

The certificate program includes a 15-hour curriculum of 16-week and interim courses that include Fiscal Management, Human Resources, Facilities and Operations, The Superintendency, and Superintendent Internship. The program’s first cohort will be certified in spring 2024.