Master's in Instructional Leadership and Teaching Practices

A Partnership with Des Moines Public Schools

Offered in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS), this 32‑credit hour degree program is designed to strengthen your practice as an educator while directly supporting the needs of the students and communities you serve. Your learning is grounded in real classroom contexts, allowing you to immediately apply research‑based strategies, instructional practices, and leadership skills in your daily work as a DMPS educator.

BLUE—Building Urban Leaders in Education

Often referred to as BLUE—Building Urban Leaders in Education, this program prepares you to lead with purpose in diverse, urban school settings. You’ll learn how to use current educational research to inform instruction, respond effectively to the needs of diverse learners, and strengthen connections among schools, families, and communities. Application of learning is central to the program, ensuring your coursework translates into meaningful classroom impact.

You’ll also have the flexibility to choose elective courses that align with your specific teaching content area or professional context, allowing you to tailor the program to your career goals. Through a focus on leadership, collaboration, and community engagement, the BLUE program helps you grow as both an educator and a leader—while remaining closely connected to the work you do every day.

Program Facts

• Participants are eligible for discounted tuition, as long as they remain employed with DMPS.
• 32 credit hours
• Complete in 2 years
• Offered by the School of Education