Teacher Leadership Oakland University

Overview

The Teacher Leadership programme at Oakland University provides a comprehensive pathway for educators to achieve the highest level of professional certification in Michigan. This Master of Education is specifically designed for classroom teachers who wish to drive systemic change and improve student outcomes through evidence-based practice.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with immediate practical application. The course structure allows professionals to maintain their current employment while developing the competencies required to influence colleagues and lead educational initiatives. The degree focuses on building confidence in curriculum development and instructional coaching.

The teaching model emphasises high levels of engagement between students and expert faculty members.

Why Teacher Leadership at Oakland University?

The School of Education and Human Services is widely recognised as a model of excellence, having trained multiple generations of Michigan’s educational leaders. It holds the distinction of being the first institution in the state approved for the Advanced Professional designation, ensuring graduates reach the top tier of certification.

A central feature of the experience is the focus on equity and social justice. The curriculum includes dedicated coursework addressing socioeconomic and systemic inequity, preparing teachers to work effectively within diverse environments. This cultural competence is highly sought after by educational employers across the region.

The programme also incorporates an action research project conducted within the student's own classroom. This allows for the collection of evidence-based conclusions that directly support professional success. Facilities and resources are geared towards creating transformational change agents who can lead professional learning and collaborate with administrators.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 22428 per year
• National fee: USD 22428 per year
• Local fee: USD 19972 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 30 credits across 10 courses, culminating in a transformational change project. Modules may include:

• Collaborative Leadership
• Teacher Leader as Change Agent for Equitable Schools
• Action Research in Your Classroom
• Teacher Leader as Collaborative Practitioner

Careers with Teacher Leadership

Graduates are prepared for a variety of advanced roles within the education sector while remaining committed to classroom excellence. The programme qualifies individuals to train and mentor new teachers, lead professional learning sessions, and develop modern curricula. These skills often lead to increased salary potential and greater professional influence.

Common career paths include becoming an instructional coach, a department leader, or a curriculum specialist. Graduates are also equipped to collaborate directly with school administrators on policy development. By attaining the Advanced Professional Educator designation, alumni position themselves as experts capable of leading school-wide improvements and fostering inclusive learning environments.