Becoming a school principal in Oklahoma offers a meaningful opportunity to shape student outcomes, support educators and foster strong school communities. As the demand for qualified principals continues to grow, more Oklahoma teachers are stepping up to pursue administrative roles. But how exactly can educators earn principal certification in Oklahoma, and what’s the best way to do it while continuing to teach? Southeastern’s online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership programs, namely the Principal & Superintendent Certification and Professional Track, equip you with the skills and preparation needed to pursue Oklahoma principal certification through the official state process.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) outlines a clear path to principal licensure that includes advanced coursework, hands-on training and passing a series of certification exams. Fortunately, today’s aspiring school leaders don’t need to choose between career advancement and work-life balance.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s Principal & Superintendent Certification and Professional Track programs are streamlined, 100% online principal prep programs designed to align with Oklahoma’s certification requirements. From coursework in early childhood education and instructional leadership to test preparation and internship support, Southeastern’s program equips Oklahoma teachers with everything they need to pass the certification exam and qualify for leadership roles. So, whether you’re already an Oklahoma teacher or just starting your journey, this guide breaks down the licensure steps and program features that can help you move confidently toward school leadership.
Oklahoma Principal Certification Requirements
In Oklahoma, principal certification is overseen by the State Department of Education along with the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA). To earn certification, candidates must meet the state’s licensure requirements and complete a series of required steps. To qualify for principal certification in Oklahoma, candidates must:
- Earn a master’s degree from an accredited institution: A degree in educational leadership or a closely related field is typically required.
- Complete an approved educator preparation program: The program must be recognized by the OSDE and include administrative internship components.
- Pass all required principal certification exams: Only one exam is required; either the OSAT-Principal or the PRAXIS 5412.
- Receive a recommendation for certification: This must come from the institution where the principal preparation program was completed.
- Submit an application to the OSDE: The state grants final approval based on exam results, experience and academic credentials.
This pathway ensures that Oklahoma educators entering school leadership roles are prepared to meet the challenges of principalship while maintaining a strong foundation in instructional excellence.
Exams Required for Oklahoma Principal Certification
To earn principal certification in Oklahoma, candidates must pass either the OSAT-Principal or the PRAXIS 5412. These tests are administered by Pearson or the Educational Testing Service (ETS) through the Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE) program and are designed to assess leadership knowledge and readiness for administrative roles. Oklahoma principal certification requires the OSAT (Oklahoma Subject Area Tests): Candidates must take subject area tests in their instructional field. For aspiring principals, this might include educational leadership, business education, physical education or special education, depending on their background.
This exam includes subtests that evaluate content knowledge, practical application and educator preparation. Candidates receive a score report outlining their performance across test domains, which helps guide future preparation if retakes are necessary.
These certification tests are a critical component of the licensure process, and strong test preparation can make a major difference. Choosing an online principal prep program with built-in exam support ensures you’re equipped with the content knowledge and strategies to pass confidently on the first try.
How Southeastern’s Online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Prepares Future Principals
Oklahoma educators looking to advance into school leadership need a program that’s both flexible and fully aligned with state standards. Southeastern’s online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership – Professional track program and Principal & Superintendent Certification program deliver just that: comprehensive, 100% online principal preparation that supports certification from start to finish. Here’s how the programs prepare aspiring principals to meet Oklahoma’s licensure requirements:
- Curriculum aligned with OSDE standards: Coursework in instructional leadership, school law, curriculum development and vision-driven, data-informed decision making meets the criteria for principal certification.
- Built-in test preparation support: Tutorials and preparation materials help candidates confidently approach each certification exam with content knowledge and test-taking
- Internship experience included: A supervised fieldwork component provides hands-on learning, helping students apply leadership principles in real-world settings.
- Accelerated format: Courses are delivered in an online, accelerated format that enables most students to finish the degree in about 12 to 16 months.
- Designed for working professionals: The program structure supports Oklahoma teachers who need to balance their teaching schedules with educator preparation.
By integrating educational leadership theory with practical skill development, Southeastern’s online principal prep programs position graduates to succeed on their certification exams and transition smoothly into school leadership.
Your Next Step Toward Principal Certification
If you’re an Oklahoma teacher ready to lead, Southeastern Oklahoma State University makes principal certification accessible, efficient and fully aligned with state expectations. The Professional track and Principal & Superintendent Certification online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership programs are designed to meet Oklahoma State Department of Education requirements and include everything you need to prepare for each certification exam and test.
Whether you’re navigating educator preparation or already researching certification test dates, Southeastern’s online principal prep program gives you the flexibility, guidance and tools to move forward with confidence. Request more information or apply now to take the next step toward your school leadership goals.
FAQ
Here are quick answers to common questions about Oklahoma’s teacher and principal certification process. The goal is to provide more clarity, covering key certification examinations and score requirements.
What tests are required for Oklahoma teacher certification?
To earn initial teacher certification in Oklahoma, candidates must pass either the OSAT (Oklahoma Subject Area Tests) or PRAXIS 5412 certification examination. These certification tests evaluate content knowledge, teaching readiness and professional competencies and ensuring new teachers meet the state’s standards for classroom instruction and student success.
How do you get principal certification in Oklahoma?
The state of Oklahoma has clear requirements for educators who want to move into school leadership roles. To earn principal certification in Oklahoma, you must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid teacher certification
- Complete an OEQA-approved graduate program in educational leadership
- Pass all required certification examinations
- Submit a certification application to the Oklahoma State Department of Education
Which exams must be passed before applying for principal licensure?
Before applying for principal licensure in Oklahoma, candidates must pass either the OSAT-Principal or the PRAXIS (5412) Administration and Supervision. Each exam generates a detailed score report to determine certification eligibility.