Why This Educator Chose the Online Master of Education in Leadership from LSUS

When Joshua Mulder set out to advance his career in education, he knew he needed a program that matched his ambition without derailing his full-time job or personal commitments. What he found in the online Master of Education in Educational Leadership from LSU Shreveport (LSUS) was more than just flexibility, affordability, and convenience. He also found a road to meaningful change in his profession and in himself.

As someone already working in education, Joshua had a front-row seat to the kinds of leadership schools need: leaders who are strategic, collaborative, and ready to foster lasting improvement. His next step? Building the skills and credentials to lead that change himself.

Meet Joshua Mulder

1. What initially made you apply to the online LSUS Master of Education in Educational Leadership?
I was drawn to the program because of my passion for education and my desire to take on leadership roles within schools. The online format was especially appealing as it allowed me to balance my professional responsibilities with my educational aspirations. LSUS offered a reputable program with a flexible schedule that allowed me to pursue my degree without interrupting my career.

2. What were your biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was managing time effectively, as I had to balance coursework with my work schedule and personal life. Staying organized was key—using tools like a detailed calendar, task lists, and setting aside specific time each week for studying helped me stay on track. Additionally, when the material became particularly challenging, I made sure to reach out to professors and fellow students for clarification and support.

3. What did you appreciate most about the faculty and support services?
I truly appreciated the faculty's dedication to student success. They were always available for questions and offered insightful feedback on assignments. Their real-world experience in educational leadership was invaluable, as it provided a practical context to the theoretical knowledge we were learning.

4. What was your favorite course or topic? Why?
My favorite course was "Leadership and Organizational Change." I found it fascinating to explore how educational leaders can foster a culture of change and improvement within schools. The course delved into strategies for leading teams, navigating resistance, and making data-driven decisions.

5. What advice would you give to prospective students considering the program?
My advice would be to stay organized, manage your time wisely, and actively engage with the professors and your peers. The program can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Make sure to ask questions and participate in discussions, as the more you put into the program, the more you’ll get out of it. And, don’t be afraid to lean on the resources available to you, whether it’s academic support or career services.

6. What do you see as the biggest benefits of an online education?
The biggest benefit of an online education is flexibility. I was able to tailor my study schedule to my personal life, which made it much easier to pursue my degree while working full-time. Additionally, online education gives students the opportunity to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and locations, which enriches the learning experience. It also provides a more self-directed learning environment, which helped me develop important skills like time management and self-discipline.

Start Leading Change with LSU Online

Whether you aim to take the next step in your teaching career, move into administration, or make a broader impact in education, the online Master of Education in Educational Leadership from LSU Shreveport offers an affordable, accredited degree to get you there.

This flexible program empowers future leaders to develop the skills they need to shape school culture, implement effective change, and inspire the next generation of educators.

Ready to take the next step? Explore the online master of education programs from LSUS and apply today!

Online LSUS Master of Education in Educational Leadership

Online LSUS Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Teacher Leader Concentration