Micro Schools Network Certificate in Leadership &
Harvard Graduate School of Education Certificate
in Instructional Leadership
Expand your educational leadership capabilities to drive change in micro schools, small schools, hybrid and learner-driven models.
Earn both an Micro Schools Network Certificate in Leadership and a Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) Certificate in Instructional Leadership (ILC). The Micro Schools Network (MSN) is excited to offer this multi-course certificate program which combines the skills needed to both lead a team of high quality instructors and manage the day to day administrative tasks unique to small schools and learner driven environments.
This dual certificate program consists of 5 online asynchronous courses and 5 synchronous cohort meetings (at the conclusion of each of the 5 classes). By completing these five courses, over the course of a year, you will be awarded a comprehensive certificate from the Micro Schools Network (MSN). You will also earn Harvard Graduate School of Education’s (HGSE) Instructional Leadership Certificate (ILC) as you fulfill the requirements of the Micro School Leadership comprehensive certificate.
Please note that HGSE participants can earn 2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and 20 Professional Development clock hours per module. Please inquire if you’re considering using these CEUs for professional purposes.



Course Start Dates
Cohort 1
DATE | Name |
---|---|
Oct. 2 - Nov. 12, 2025 | Articulating the Intangibles of Teaching (HGSE) |
Jan. 15 - Feb. 25, 2026 | Instructional Coaching Through Change: Supporting Teachers in Action (HGSE) |
Mar. 12 - Apr. 22, 2026 | Leading Teacher Teams: Promoting Growth Through Effective Collaboration (HGSE) |
June 11 - Jul. 22, 2026 | Teachers Mentoring Teachers: Practices for Powerful Professional Communities (HGSE) |
Oct. 1 - Nov. 11, 2026 | Managing and Sustaining a Successful Micro School (MSN) |
Cohort 2
DATE | Name |
---|---|
Jan. 15 - Feb. 25, 2026 | Articulating the Intangibles of Teaching (HGSE) |
Mar. 12 - Apr. 22, 2026 | Instructional Coaching Through Change: Supporting Teachers in Action (HGSE) |
June 11 - Jul. 22, 2026 | Leading Teacher Teams: Promoting Growth Through Effective Collaboration (HGSE) |
Oct. 1 - Nov. 11, 2026 | Teachers Mentoring Teachers: Practices for Powerful Professional Communities (HGSE) |
Jan. 14 - Feb. 25, 2027 | Managing and Sustaining a Successful Micro School (MSN) |
Location
- Online
Mode
- Asynchronous Online Coursework
- 5 synchronous seminars with cohort
Investment
- $3500 for entire program - 2 certificates
- Payable online in one payment at the start of the program

Program Structure
The MSN Certificate in Micro Schools Leadership gives you the tools to become a better leader, coach and mentor in small learner driven settings. The program integrates expertise in managing and running a small school with research based best practices in teaching and learning.

Program and Course Length
Each course is delivered over 5 weeks, and you are expected to engage in and contribute to approximately 5 hours per week of self-directed learning. Program certifications will be completed within a 12 month period.

Course Instruction
Course materials are delivered virtually via an online learning platform so you can manage and adapt all of the coursework to fit your schedule.
Self-directed Learning
With each module, you will undertake self-directed learning activities that provide you with the opportunity to the following:
- Explore case studies that provide insight into other school leaders’ experiences, insights and best practice
- Engage in activities to learn and engage with your cohort
- Deepen your teaching and managing expertise

Download the course catalog here
Applications and acceptance into the program is done through the Micro Schools Network.
By submitting an application, you are applying to all five courses in order to complete the full certification.
If accepted to the program, participants should plan on completing all five courses within one academic year. Once you have completed your application form, you will be notified of acceptance and billed for program fees. Following payment, these courses are non-refundable.
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