Alternative routes to administrator certification may provide many benefits to states and school districts unable to fill critical public school administrative positions. Such programs can appeal to qualified individuals outside of education, as well as those persons unable or unwilling to progress through a traditional program of study. To be truly attractive, such programs must fully embody the alternative philosophy, employing nontraditional means of qualification assessment, in addition to content delivery. The Alternative Route to Administrator Certification (ARAC) effort, currently in design by the Department of Educational Administration and Foundations at Illinois State University, presents one approach. Divided into seven distinct stages, this competencies-oriented program allows students to engage in focused studies aimed at filling gaps in current skills and knowledge. A 1-year, onsite internship culminates the learning experience. ARAC will not do away with the need for traditional programs leading toward certification and a doctorate; however, it may provide another avenue for qualified individuals to enter the administrative profession. (DFR)