The concentration in the Urban Superintendency is an intensive, rigorous program that prepares individuals for top leadership positions in city school systems. A select cohort of six to nine candidates is admitted each year. The most competitive applicants are educators who have a record of effectiveness in improving teaching and learning in urban public schools, a demonstrated potential for exercising leadership to systematically raise student achievement, a professional history of integrity and innovation, and an academic record of excellence. Teacher-leaders, women, and people of color are actively recruited.
Students fulfill core and other requirements in a prescribed manner.
Thirteen specific courses must be completed during the first year, beginning in July and ending in June. These courses cover topics such as the urban superintendency, teaching and learning, and politics and policymaking. During the second year, each student serves for six months as a full-time intern to a superintendent in an urban school district unfamiliar to the student. The internship is equivalent to three courses. Following the internship, students may undertake the qualifying paper and dissertation from any location, at HGSE or in the student's home state.