In the state of California, potential administrators may gain certification by successfully passing the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA). This study attempts to determine if the SLLA route to administrative licensure is an effective way of placing quality candidates into entry level assistant principal positions by comparing and contrasting the preparation of entry level administrators who have received certification through examination to those who have received certification through traditional university routes. The study combined quantitative and qualitative research methods. The sample consisted of 25 assistant principals and 10 principals, or former principals, from eight comprehensive high schools in one district. Ten of the assistant principals gained certification through a university route while 15 of the remaining assistant principals received certification through the examination. Surveys were given to all participants to elicit perceptions of preparation and interviews were conducted with each participant to add context and depth. Survey findings revealed that there was little difference between the perceptions of preparation between these two groups with the few exceptions favoring the preparation of examination takers. Both principals and assistant principals believed that much of what administrators needed to know is learned on the job. Interviews revealed three key findings. First, California should continue to hire administrators through the examination route. Secondly, professional development for assistant principals should be focused on relevant skills such as communication, problem solving and time management. Finally, school districts and universities should look at creating new partnerships that aim at building the capacity of administrators once they are on the job. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]