LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE FOR TOMORROW’S SCHOOLS (LIFTS)

Administration Certification (LIFTS)

Our Leadership Initiative for Tomorrow’s Schools (LIFTS) administration certification prepares you for New York State Education Department certification as a school leader. Our programs—school building leader (SBL) and school district leader (SDL)—are guided by the belief that building trust and developing effective relationships is at the core of effective leadership. We also prepare you to recognize and attend to issues of diversity, equity and inclusion in a system where inequities are pervasive.

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Why LIFTS Certification at UB?

The features of our program include:

  • cohort-based learning environment supported by a network of experienced local school and district leaders
  • emphasis on reflective practice and change leadership
  • integration of academic and experiential learning, including current issues and problems of school and district practice
  • learning that leading begins by asking the right questions as opposed to having all the answers
  • opportunities to collaborate with students with diverse backgrounds, interests and points of view

LIFTS has a 71% placement rate for all certified graduates.

Program Overview

Academic credential granted Administration Certification
Credentials required for admission
  • Master's degree from an accredited institution
  • Permanent or professional certificate in classroom teaching service or pupil personnel service
  • Minimum three years of teaching experience
Credits required for completion
Time to completion 2 years
Course delivery
  • SBL/SDL – all courses on campus
Careers
  • Assistant superintendent
  • Superintendent
  • School building leader
  • School district leader
Clinical internship hours 600
Application deadline

Summer admission only

May 1

Frequently Asked Questions

We have a collection of frequently asked questions that may help you. If your questions are still unanswered, we are glad to help! Contact our admission office.

Questions About the Admission Process?

Office of Graduate Admission
Graduate School of Education
366 Baldy Hall, North Campus
716-645-2110
gseinfo@buffalo.edu