Frequently Asked Questions

1. Am I able to take a class before I apply to enter the program?

Yes, you may take up to three classes (9 hours) as a special student. You will need to contact Outreach Programs (540-568-4253) and request special student admission to a class (there is a $15 fee) and a special student permission (you can print it from their website) form needs to be submitted to our program. University regulations require that once you are admitted to the graduate school that you formally transfer these credits into the program. No more than one-third of your program may consist of courses transferred from either JMU or other accredited institutions.

2. How do I apply to enter the program?

All applications are done online at https://www.applyweb.com/apply/jmug/index.html

3. What do I need to do to become endorsed as an administrator if I already have a masters' degree in another area?

“To become endorsed as a school administrator in the state of Virginia, certain knowledge and skills must be covered through coursework, practicum experiences and the internship. We provide a certificate program for candidates who already possess a Masters degree. In this program we examine your previous transcripts and select the appropriate courses in the master's core, the leadership strand and the specialty classes that you will need to be endorsed in administration. You must still complete a minimum of 21 hours (7 courses) to meet our program requirements; most students complete approximately 27-30 hours depending upon their previous masters. Students who previously have earned a masters degree should consider pursuing endorsement while working toward the doctorate. Although JMU does not currently have a doctoral program in educational leadership, a fine program is available through the University of Virginia (434-924-3880).

4. Can I take a course from another university and apply it to the program?

The College of Graduate and Outreach Programs allows up to nine credits to be transferred from other accredited institutions.

5. How long does it take to complete the program?

Generally our students complete the program in two or three years. You can accelerate this by taking a greater course load. Please refer to the chart that delineates typical semester course offerings.

6. What is the admission orientation process like in the fall or spring of each year?

Once conditionally admitted to the program, all candidates must attend an orientation session; typically, sessions are held twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. During this session, all candidates take a short leadership assessment to determine their individual leadership style. Candidates also provide a writing sample based on a question provided to them. The final aspect of the orientation includes a twenty-minute presentation on a current research topic or area of interest to the candidate. This process is employed to determine candidate strengths in writing and oral presentation. If deficiencies are determined in specific areas, candidates are encouraged to take specific courses to build skills. The entire process takes one half day and encourages candidates to get acquainted with professors, local school administrators and other graduate students