Superintendent Credential, Subsequent Certification

Those who have a doctoral degree in education but not the superintendent credential may earn that credential as a subsequent certification at NLU. In Illinois it is the Superintendent Endorsement in addition to previously earned Type 75 certification and in Wisconsin it is in addition to previously earned Type 51 certification.

In addition to National College of Education Graduate Admissions Requirements, applicants must: 

  • Have a doctoral degree from regionally accredited institution in the field of educational administration, educational leadership, educational policy or a closely related subject
  • Pass the Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP). The results are valid for 10 years. TAP cannot be taken more than five times.
  • Document evidence of at least two years of leadership in the educational field
  • Submit four letters of recommendation from people who are familiar with applicant’s professional or academic work (at least one from a person supervising professional work)
  • Submit a professional resume
  • Submit doctoral questions and answers response
  • Undergo faculty review
  • Sit for an interview
  • Note: If the applicant has received a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from NLU, then the four letters of recommendation, professional resume, doctoral questions and answers response, faculty review and interview are waived.

This certification requires:

  • A minimum of 9 SH of coursework; additional coursework, including 9 SH of internship, may be required upon evaluation of portfolio
  • A grade of “B” or better in all coursework
  • An electronic portfolio created in EDL 610
  • Note: This program is ineligible for federal financial aid

Requirements - 9 SH

EDL610Entry Portfolio Development for Superintendent Endorsement

Note: If needed, additional courses and 9 SH of internship (EDL690 Educational Leadership Internship) are selected in collaboration with an advisor to complete certification standards.