Over the years, there has been much discussion about the need for highly qualified teachers. Professional development has become a focus for teachers to ensure that students are getting the proper education. Just as there is a need for highly qualified teachers, there is a need for highly qualified principals; however, there are few studies that have considered the quantity and quality of supports that principals need. The purpose of this study was to explore principals' perceptions of their professional development needs throughout their administrative careers. Principals were given the opportunity to share their perceptions of their professional development needs in terms of where they are in their administrative careers. This study divided the principal career stages into three categories: early administrative career, mid administrative career, and late administrative career. In order to determine the principals' perceptions of their professional development needs, a needs assessment was conducted utilizing a survey. The questionnaire used is entitled The Profile of Principal Professional Development Needs Assessment (PPDNA) designed by Pamela Salazar. Mixed-methods research was used in order to provide meaningful analyses of the data. This research analyzed the characteristics of the participants and determined their perspective of their professional development needs and their preferred delivery model. Through descriptive statistics (a quantitative approach), the research examined the professional development needs of principals. The research also provided an opportunity for participants to answer questions in their own words. This data was analyzed through thematic analysis (a qualitative approach). The significance of this study is relevant to the current needs of professional development for principals. This study was needed to determine the principals' perceptions of their professional development needs throughout their early, mid, and late administrative careers. The data from this study can assist districts and states to improve the professional development being offered to principals. This study differentiates the professional development needs of principals based on their years of service. Improving the professional development of principals will ensure that principals are receiving training on the things that are most important to serve students effectively. School districts looking to improve student learning, enhance school morale and community involvement, and increase quality instruction, now have a means to do so with the results of this study. While many districts have focused on teacher professional development in the past, this study describes the need for principal professional development in order to enact real change within the building or district. [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.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]