School Building Leader/School District Leader (CAS)

To navigate the challenges of today’s educational system, schools need great leaders. Our program helps you become one.

Randall Yu became Principal at the Brockport Ginther Elementary School before even completing his degree.

Upcoming Events

April 8, 2026, 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.

School Building Leader/School District Leader, CAS & Teacher Leader, Advanced Certificate Virtual Information Session

Ready to take the next step in your educational leadership career? Join us for our Virtual Information Session to learn more about the School Building Leader/School District Leader, CAS & Teacher Leader, Advanced Certificate

May 19, 2026, 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.

School Building Leader/School District Leader, CAS Virtual Information Session

Ready to take the next step in your educational leadership career? Join us for our Virtual Information Session to learn more about the School Building Leader/School District Leader, CAS!

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What You’ll Learn

Throughout the program, you’ll work closely with a mentor. You will learn the foundations of educational leadership, effective supervision and management skills as well as the legal basics of education.

We prepare instructional leaders in school buildings and district offices.

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Curriculum

Delivery Mode: 100% online

An earned master’s degree is required for entrance into this program that prepares individuals to be instructional leaders in school buildings and district offices.

Candidates who complete the program’s educational requirements and successfully pass the School District Leader (SDL) leadership assessment administered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) are awarded the CAS in Educational Administration.

This CAS provides eligibility to successful candidates for the School Building Leader (SBL) and School District Leader (SDL) administrative certifications issued by the NYSED.

Curriculum & Learning Outcomes

Program Eligibility

Earned master’s degree in Education from an accredited institution
At least one year of teaching experience or pupil personnel service

Application Process

All applicants must complete the multi-step process managed by the Center for Graduate Studies.

Determine your applicant type
Submit application
Request all official transcripts
Review and submit required application materials through the Application Status Portal
International applicants must also submit international materials

Best Consideration Dates

Fall Semester: August 1
Spring Semester: December 1

Complete applications received after the published deadline are welcome and will be reviewed on a space-available basis.

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Career Outlook

Our graduates are in high demand; many serve in school leadership positions throughout western New York and the Southern Tier. Our program prepares effective leaders who are reflective, critical thinkers and innovative pioneers who are prepared to support teachers, students, families and systems.

Principals, assistant principals, department chairs, and grade-level coordinator positions require the School Building Leader (SBL) certification. Superintendents, assistant superintendents, and numerous other central office administrative positions require the School District Leader (SDL) Certification. Our graduates are eligible to obtain both certifications through our course of study.