Cohorts
Cohort Overview
What is a cohort model?
A cohort is defined as a group of learners collectively engaged in focused study. By design almost all, if not all, the courses are required. By requiring courses, all members of a cohort will enroll together and thus engage in collaborative learning throughout the program.
Why a cohort model?
Student and faculty resources can be planned and managed more effectively. Students are enrolled together throughout the program, enabling them to build a strong peer network.
What are the current requirements for an administrative license?
Candidates for a Director of Special Education license must have a least two years of successful teaching experience in special education while holding a license valid for the position or positions in which the experience was gained, hold a Masters Degree in a broad field of education, complete 30 semester credits in educational administration beyond the Masters Degree, and present a portfolio documenting acquisition of the 25 competencies and complete a 200 hour Director of Special Education field experience.
Candidates for a K-12 Principal license recommendation must have at least three years of successful teaching experience, a valid Minnesota teaching license, hold a Masters Degree in a broad education field, complete 30 semester credits in educational administration beyond the Masters Degree, present a portfolio documenting acquisition of the 21 competencies, and complete a 320 hour K-12 principal field experience (for both licenses, the experience is 420 hours total). Additional field experience hours and portfolio are required for any additional license.
How will this cohort be organized?
Cohort members will enroll in ten credits during the first summer semester and take an additional seven credits fall and spring semester and finishing with nine credits in the second fall semester.
When and where will the courses be delivered?
Courses are delivered at sites throughout the state. Generally cohorts need to have 20 students to begin.
Can I transfer credits from another program?
Credit transfer to a cohort program is difficult. Transferring a licensure program is even more difficult. However, if credit transfer is to be considered, you need to consult with the faculty cohort advisor. Times for advising and cohort maintenance will be built into the schedule.
Who are the cohort faculty?
Faculty for cohorts will include professors from St. Cloud State University and local adjunct faculty.
Do I need to apply to the Graduate School at St. Cloud State University?
You will need to apply to the School of Graduate Studies; however, this will also be done as a cohort. Each of you has been mailed an application for graduate school. If you received a Masters Degree from an institution other than St. Cloud State University, you will need to provide an official transcript of that Masters Degree.
Other Information
Learn about the Educational Administrator Licensure Program (Cohort Plan) with this downloadable brochure! (PDF: 236K / 2 pages)
Higher Education Administration (PDF: 894K / 2 pages)
