The LMU Preliminary Administrative Services Credential curriculum prepares prospective, novice, and current school leaders to strengthen their practice in mission-focused, organizational, and instructional leadership. Through an integrated course of study, students develop the knowledge and skills to shape school culture and learning, support student and educator growth, manage the operational responsibilities of school leadership, navigate governance and policy, and lead diverse school communities with purpose and integrity.
Our program can be completed in 1 year on a part-time basis for a total of 12 units.
Courses
All Preliminary Administrative Services Credential students complete the following courses:
- EDLA 6200 — Foundations of Leadership (3 units)
- EDLA 6203 — School Finance and Human Resources (3 units)
- EDLA 6207 — Governance, Law, and Policy (3 units)
- EDLA 6423 — Instructional Leadership (3 units)
Students also enroll in three 0-unit courses aligned with the California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA).
- EDLA 6441 — Fieldwork/CalAPA Cycle 1 (0 units)
- EDLA 6442 — Fieldwork/CalAPA Cycle 2 (0 units)
- EDLA 6443 — Fieldwork/CalAPA Cycle 3 (0 units)
For detailed course descriptions, see the University Bulletin.
Pathway to a Master's Degree
Students who complete the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential program may apply all credential program coursework toward the M.A. in Educational Leadership.
California Administrator Performance Assessment
Students pursuing the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential complete three California Administrator Performance Assessment (CalAPA) Leadership Cycles in sequential order throughout the three-semester program:
- Semester 1: Analyzing Data to Inform School Improvement and Promote Equity
- Semester 2: Forming Communities of Practice
- Semester 3: Supporting Teacher Growth
The three 0-unit CalAPA support courses provide structured guidance throughout this process. Students meet with an experienced school administrator and LMU instructor three times each semester, typically on Saturday mornings, to monitor progress toward competency requirements, strengthen their leadership practice, and receive guidance as they complete each CalAPA cycle.
Fieldwork Experience
Students who work at a K–12 school site may complete their required fieldwork within the school where they are currently employed, including while serving as a teacher, instructional coach, or in another eligible role. Students who work outside a school site, such as in a district office, will identify a K–12 school site where they can complete the required fieldwork activities.
Fieldwork is integrated into the CalAPA Leadership Cycles and is based on demonstrating required leadership competencies rather than completing a prescribed number of hours. Students are also assigned a fieldwork instructor who serves as a mentor throughout the program, providing regular support with CalAPA progress, leadership development, and administrator skill building.