Instructional Coach Endorsement

A fully online pathway to teacher leadership through instructional coaching.

Kutztown University’s Instructional Coach Endorsement offers educators a strong pathway into high-impact school leadership roles. Instructional coaches provide PK-12 schools with job-embedded professional development focused on reflection, collaboration, and effective instructional improvement designed to enhance teacher practice and student achievement.

This fast-paced 12-credit, fully online program prepares experienced, certified educators to receive PA Instructional Coach PK-12 Endorsement upon completion.

Program Highlights:

Streamlined 12-credit endorsement preparation program for current educators
Convenient fully online coursework ideal for working adults
80 hours of fieldwork embedded throughout the program
Focus on adult learning, coaching, leadership, assessment, and data-driven improvement
PDE-approved Instructional Coach Endorsement program
Curriculum aligned to International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards

Program Coursework — 12 credits

Assessment (3 credits) — choose one from the following:

EDRS 574 Assessment of Reading: Clinical Practicum in Reading Diagnosis
EDUC 526 Data Driven Decision Making

Leadership (3 credits) — choose one from the following:

EDRS 577 Leadership for Reading Educators
EDUC 541 Supervision of Instruction

Adult Learning Theories (3 credits)

ELED 531 Adult Learning Theory and Foundations in Instructional Coaching

Coaching Practicum (3 credits)

ELED 532 Practicum in Instructional Coaching

Apply Now Request More Information

Career Advancement for high-impact teacher leaders

Great schools depend on strong teacher leaders. Instructional Coach Endorsement is designed for experienced educators who want to expand their impact, strengthen their employability, and prepare for high-impact leadership roles in teacher support, job-embedded professional development, and school improvement.

Through focused preparation in coaching, adult learning, data use, and instructional leadership, candidates build a more marketable skill set while staying closely connected to the meaningful work of teaching and learning.

icon of paper form with lines indicating text, icon of a person, and checkmark indicating approval

Take the Next Step

Complete a graduate program application and provide:
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Copy of active PA teaching certification or equivalent
- Evidence of three years of teaching experience

Application deadlines by semester of entry:
- Fall semester: August 1
- Spring semester: December 1
- Summer I semester: May 1

Want to learn more about our Instructional Coach Endorsement Program? Contact coordinator Dr. Catherine McGeehan at mcgeehan@kutztown.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Instructional Coach Endorsement in Pennsylvania?

The Instructional Coach Endorsement is a Pennsylvania educator credential for experienced teachers who want to support other educators through instructional coaching, professional learning, and school improvement.
Why pursue an Instructional Coach Endorsement?

This marketable endorsement is a strong option for educators who want to expand their impact beyond their own classroom while staying closely connected to teaching and learning.

The strong focus on adult learning, coaching, leadership, assessment, and data-informed improvement supports growth in teacher leadership, professional learning, and school improvement.
What is the role of an Instructional Coach in PK-12 schools?

Instructional coaches work with teachers in a collegial, non-evaluative way to strengthen classroom practice. Instructional coaching is a form of job-embedded professional development that supports teacher growth, continuous improvement of instructional practices, and improved student achievement through collaboration, reflection, and inquiry.
Do I need certification or teaching experience to be eligible for this program?

Yes. Candidates must hold an Instructional I or II certificate and have at least three years of successful teaching experience.
Is fieldwork required for this program?
A total of 80 hours of fieldwork are accrued throughout the program:
- 10 hours completed in Assessment course
- 15 hours completed in Leadership course
- 25 hours completed in Adult Learning Theories course
- 30 hours completed in Coaching Practicum course

Apply Now Request More Information