Image of students listening to a professor in a classroom.

Principal Certification

  • Certifications and Endorsements
  • Hybrid

Program Snapshot

Start Terms

January, March, May, July, August, October, December
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Start Terms

Designed for Working Professionals

Part-time and full-time options;
multiple course formats offered
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Time

Fully Online

Courses are taken online
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Fully Online

Course Length

Accelerated 8 week courses
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Guaranteed Field Placements

Longstanding relationship with local schools
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Unique Curricular Focus

Courses rooted in social justice and equity
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Why Earn Your Principal Certification at La Salle?

Students who earn the PA Principal Certification from La Salle University gain the essential knowledge and practical experience needed to become effective PK-12 school leaders. The program equips candidates with advanced skills in instructional leadership, school law and finance, strategic planning, staff supervision, and community engagement. A required field-based internship, supervised by a PA-certified principal, provides hands-on experience in both elementary and secondary settings. Graduates will be well-prepared to take the PRAXIS II for school leaders and meet all Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) certification requirements. Ultimately, students gain the tools to lead school-wide improvement and foster educational equity. 

La Salle’s Principal Certification program offers a flexible, supportive environment ideal for working professionals. With 100% online or hybrid options and evening courses, students can balance their education with full-time careers. The program can be completed in as little as one year, with multiple start dates throughout the year. Students benefit from close mentorship with experienced school leaders and a curriculum aligned with both PDE and national standards. La Salle emphasizes diversity, equity, and ethical leadership, preparing future principals to meet the evolving challenges of today’s educational landscape while rooted in a tradition of academic excellence. 

Field placements must be completed within Pennsylvania due to PDE guidelines. Applicants must submit transcripts, proof of certification, a statement of goals, letters of recommendation, and meet La Salle’s graduate admissions requirements. 

Meet the Faculty

Kimberly Lewinski, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Education and a researcher and participant for the Writers Matter Program. Prior to this, she was a graduate student at University of Virginia where she served on a Writing Across the Curriculum research team for three years and was an instructor of literacy courses at James Madison University. Also, she has seven years of full-time teaching experience at the elementary level. Her scholarship interests are in writing across the curriculum and creative pedagogy.

Kimberly Lewinski, Ph.D.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue roles such as PK-12 school principals, assistant principals, instructional leaders, curriculum supervisors, and district-level administrators.