« Graduate Certificates and Endorsements

Superintendent PK–12 Certification

Offered fully online

Prepare for Leadership with Point Park's Fully Online Program

Our fully online Superintendent PK–12 certificate program is for professional educators with at least six years of relevant professional experience in an educational setting related to the instructional process.

We designed this program for individuals who already hold a graduate degree in an education-related field and wish to enter into a leadership position as a superintendent or assistant superintendent in a PK–12 district.

Upon completion of this program, you are eligible for certification as an assistant superintendent or superintendent in the state of Pennsylvania. You will also need to pass the School Superintendent Assessment/SSA (6991) as required by the PA Department of Education.

"I recommend Point Park for its individualized approach to learning and flexibility in completing coursework. As a parent working a full-time, demanding career, an online option coupled with instructors who provide support and meaningful feedback has been critical to my success in the program."

Julie Franczyk '24, Superintendent Letter of Eligibility and Ed.D. alumna and assistant superintendent for Chartiers Valley School District

Courses & Topics

Our 18-credit, fully online program expands upon the Total Leader 2.0 Leadership Model as developed by Charles Schwan and William Spady.

The coursework in the superintendent certificate program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for Act 45/PIL (PA Inspired Leadership) hours, thus enabling current educators to fulfill their professional development hour obligations while completing the certification program.

Courses in our superintendent certification program include:

Art and Science of Authenticity
Art and Science of Visionary Leadership
Art and Science of Cultural/Relational Leadership
Art and Science of Systems and Service Leadership
Art and Science of Communication in Leadership

Successful completion of the School Superintendent Assessment/SSA (6021) is required for certification.

In order to receive certification at the end of the program, candidates must provide verification of the completion of a minimum of six years of professional experience in an instructional area (at least three of the six years should be at the administrative level). The candidate must also be recommended for certification by the Point Park University-authorized certification officer.

Meet Our Faculty

Linda Hippert, Ed.D., associate dean

Prior to joining Point Park, Dr. Hippert was the executive director of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, a regional public education agency and liaison to the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the 42 schools districts in suburban Allegheny County.

Faculty Bio

School of Education Faculty & Staff

Learn More About Our Faculty

Visit our Full-Time Faculty page to learn more about the experienced educators who lead our programs.

Full-Time Faculty

School of Education Faculty & Staff