The 2024–25 Principal Preparation Program Landscape: Operating Programs,Fully Online/Hybrid/Face-to-Face Offerings,and Change

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive, post-Covid landscape analysis of university-based principal preparation programs (PPPs) in the U.S. Using an original, nationally verified dataset of 638 programs, it identifies where PPPs are, delivery models, trends, and institutional predictors of delivery model shifts since 2018–19. A key finding is the sharp rise of fully online (FOL) programming, the dominant licensure path by 2024. This shift carries major implications for access, program design, and research. The study and dataset invite future collaboration and analysis, especially as questions surrounding PPP quality, equity, access, sustainability, and national data collection become increasingly urgent.

Keywords

university programs leadership preparation leadership preparation programs principal preparation online learning leadership curriculum

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