Principal Certification Program

Career Outlook & Salary

Graduates are prepared for school leadership roles across Texas, including principal and assistant principal positions.

• Principal (Texas): ~$85,000 – $170,000+ (average around $105K–$120K, depending on district size and experience)
• Assistant Principal (Texas): ~$67,000 – $130,000+ (average around $85K–$95K)

Job Outlook

Demand for school leaders remains steady. While overall employment of principals is projected to hold relatively flat nationally, ongoing retirements and leadership turnover create consistent openings each year across school systems.

Salary ranges are based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook and national compensation aggregators such as PayScale and Salary.com, reflecting typical earnings for credentialed professionals in the field

This program is designed to make your path to campus leadership clear and achievable.

• 100% online principal certification: built for working educators
• TEA-aligned curriculum: meets Texas principal certification requirements
• Learn from experienced administrators who’ve led schools
• Practicum experience: apply what you learn in real campus settings
• Dedicated program support from start to finish

Want to learn more? Fill out our contact form and our faculty program coordinator will connect with you soon.

Applying is much easier when you're supported—and at TAMU-CC, our graduate admissions counselors are here to help.

Application Deadlines

We’re Here to Help

Sometimes getting started is the hardest part. If you have any questions or need help with your application, we've got you covered. Just fill out the information request form or contact our program administrator directly for assistance.

What are the requirements for principal certification in Texas?

To earn a Principal Certificate in Texas, candidates must:

• Hold a master’s degree from an accredited university
• Hold a valid Texas teaching certificate
• Have at least two years of creditable teaching experience
• Complete an approved principal certification program
• Pass the required TExES Principal (268) exam

If you’re unsure whether you meet these requirements, our team can help you review your qualifications.

How long does the principal certification program take?

Most students complete the program in about 10 months, allowing you to move into leadership without stepping away from your current role.

Is the principal certification program fully online?

Yes. All coursework is 100% online, designed for working educators who need flexibility.

Does this program include a practicum or field experience?

Yes. The program includes practicum experiences that allow you to apply what you learn in real school settings.

What certifications will I earn during the program?

In addition to preparing for principal certification, students may also earn T-TESS and AEL certifications, which support instructional leadership and teacher evaluation.

Do I need a master’s degree to enroll?

Yes. To earn principal certification in Texas, you must hold a master’s degree from an accredited university.

If your degree is in Educational Administration and includes at least 24 graduate hours in that field, you may already meet the coursework requirement.

If your master’s degree is in a different subject, you can still pursue principal certification. You’ll just need to complete up to 24 hours of graduate coursework in educational administration as part of the program. Your faculty advisor will review your transcript and outline exactly what’s needed.

Who teaches in the program?

Courses are taught by experienced school administrators who bring real-world leadership experience into the classroom.

How much does the program cost?

Estimated total program cost is approximately:

• $8,900 (in-state tuition and fees)
• $19,452 (out-of-state tuition and fees)
  Additional costs may include books and materials.

How do I get more information or speak with someone?

You can submit a contact form to connect with a faculty advisor. They can walk you through requirements, timelines, and next steps.