School Leadership - Online

About

This qualification should be attractive to those aspiring to school or college leadership. Study is complemented by participant reflection on real situations and is supported by an experienced tutor. The overall theme is on the development of leadership and management skills and capabilities. There is a strong focus on improvement on classroom practice in particular contexts.

Year One

Leadership for learning

Building Teams and Managing Resources



Year Two

Managing the Organisation (PGDSL)

Strategic Development Planning

Applicants must normally:

(a) have gained



(i) a degree from a university of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, from the Council for National Academic Awards, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council, or from an institution of another country which is recognised as being of an equivalent standard; or



(ii) an equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma or an approved alternative qualification, e.g. a professional qualification; and



(b) be currently working in a teaching or training environment.



(c) be currently working in a significant leadership role, e.g. Head of Year, Head of Department or similar.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Attendance: Fully online.



Students are required to attend fortnightly webinars, 6 per module, and are required to engage regularly with the online discussion boards, synchronous and non-synchronous.

Start Dates: September 2025 & January 2026.

Career options

In addition to improving the successful candidate's career portfolio, this course will allow development of higher level skills of argument and critical thinking as well as improving academic writing skills and research capability. Having a Diploma level qualification in School Leadership should enhance potential career advancement.



Past students who have completed these Leadership and Management modules have been successful in gaining Vice-Principal and Principal posts both in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Other pathways have also led to enhanced professional practice and career advancement.