Master of Arts in Educational Leadership 

Core Courses (12 units)

MAEL 500: Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Education (3 units)
A critical exploration of the philosophical traditions, historical developments, and theoretical paradigms that have shaped education across cultures and epochs. The course examines perennial questions about the aims of education, the nature of knowledge, and the role of the school in society, while highlighting their implications for leadership and governance. Students are encouraged to articulate their own leadership philosophy grounded in scholarly traditions and contemporary demands.

MAEL 501: Research Methods and Statistics in Education (3 units)
An intensive study of research methodologies in education, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. The course emphasizes research design, instrumentation, sampling, and data collection. Students are trained in statistical techniques for analyzing educational data and interpreting findings in light of current issues. The course culminates in the preparation of a research proposal that demonstrates methodological rigor and scholarly inquiry.

MAEL 502: Curriculum Leadership and Instructional Supervision (3 units)
An advanced examination of curriculum theory, design, implementation, and evaluation as they relate to educational leadership. The course explores models of instructional supervision, professional development frameworks, and leadership strategies that enhance teacher effectiveness and student learning outcomes. Emphasis is placed on the leader’s role in fostering innovation, aligning curriculum with standards, and sustaining quality instruction.

MAEL 503: Comparative Education and Educational Reforms (3 units)
A study of comparative education as a field of inquiry into the structures, policies, and reforms of educational systems worldwide. The course examines global trends and innovations, with special focus on their applicability to Philippine education. Students engage in critical analysis of case studies on reform movements, equity and access, and the implications of globalization for education policy and practice.

Specialization Courses (18 units)

MAEL 601: Educational Leadership and Governance (3 units)
An in-depth analysis of leadership theories, governance models, and administrative practices in education. The course addresses decision-making processes, stakeholder collaboration, accountability systems, and governance reforms. Students evaluate leadership practices in various organizational settings and design governance strategies aligned with democratic values, ethical standards, and institutional goals.

MAEL 602: Organizational Theories and Behavior in Education (3 units)
A comprehensive study of organizational theories and their application to educational institutions. The course covers classical, human relations, and contemporary perspectives on organizational structure and culture, as well as leadership, motivation, communication, and conflict management. Students critically examine case studies of organizational change and propose interventions that enhance institutional effectiveness.

MAEL 603: Strategic Planning and School Improvement (3 units)
This course introduces advanced theories and practices of strategic planning as a tool for institutional leadership. Students learn to conduct situational analyses, identify priorities, formulate strategies, and design monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Special emphasis is given to school improvement planning, quality assurance, and accreditation processes as instruments of institutional excellence.

MAEL 604: Educational Policy, Laws, and Ethics (3 units)
An analytical study of the policies, legal frameworks, and ethical principles that shape education in the Philippines. The course examines constitutional provisions, legislative acts, regulatory guidelines, and international commitments affecting education. Case studies on ethical dilemmas in leadership enable students to develop a principled approach to decision-making, balancing legal compliance with fairness, justice, and professional responsibility.

MAEL 605: Human Resource Development in Education (3 units)
An advanced study of the theories and practices of human resource management in educational contexts. The course addresses recruitment, induction, mentoring, performance appraisal, continuing professional development, and succession planning. Students design evidence-based HRD programs that enhance teacher effectiveness, staff motivation, and institutional sustainability.

MAEL 606: Finance and Resource Management in Education (3 units)
A comprehensive examination of financial and resource management principles as applied to schools and higher education institutions. The course covers fiscal planning, budgeting, auditing, resource allocation, accountability, and sustainability. Emphasis is placed on aligning financial management with institutional mission, promoting transparency, and ensuring efficiency in the use of educational resources.

Thesis Requirement (6 units)

MAEL 699: Master’s Thesis (6 units)
The thesis serves as the culminating academic requirement, providing students with the opportunity to conduct independent, original research in educational leadership. Under faculty supervision, students develop a research proposal, review relevant literature, employ appropriate methodologies, and conduct data analysis. The thesis must demonstrate scholarly rigor, contribute to the field of educational leadership, and address practical challenges in policy, governance, or institutional practice. Oral defense and submission of a publishable-quality manuscript are required for completion.