Choosing the right Education Specialist (Ed.S.) program is a pivotal step for educators aiming to advance their careers and make a lasting impact. With so many options available, understanding program formats, licensure tracks, and career outcomes is essential to choosing the right program for you and your goals.
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, our Ed.S. programs are designed to provide flexibility, personalized support, and clear pathways to leadership roles in education. Here, we explore how to determine the best Ed.S. program for your ambitions.
Our Ed.S. Programs at a Glance
- An Ed.S. program is an advanced post-master’s degree designed for educators seeking leadership roles without committing to a doctorate.
- Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers flexible online Ed.S. programs that prepare you for administrative licensure and career advancement.
- These programs provide essential skills in leadership, policy, and strategic decision-making, opening doors to roles such as principal, superintendent, and director of special education.
- Understanding admissions requirements, program length, and financial aid options will help you choose the Ed.S. program that best aligns with your professional goals.
What Is an Ed.S. Program, and Who Should Consider One?
An Education Specialist program is an advanced graduate degree designed for educators who wish to expand their knowledge and leadership skills beyond the master’s level without a doctorate degree. These programs emphasize areas such as educational leadership, administration, curriculum development, and specialized support services in K-12 education settings.
Many states require an Ed.S. degree for certain licensure or certification positions, making this degree a strategic step for career advancement. Good candidates for Ed.S. programs include:
- Experienced teachers who are seeking leadership or administrative roles within their schools or districts
- Educators who want to transition into higher-level roles, such as director of special education
- Principals and assistant principals who aim to move into district-level positions, such as superintendent
What Are the Options and Requirements for Our Ed.S. Programs?
If you are considering advancing your educational career with an Ed.S. degree at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, here are the key program options and requirements you should know:
- Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership: This program is geared toward experienced teachers with a master’s degree who want to focus on instructional and leadership expertise rather than licensed administration. It has a completion time of around one and a half years.
- Ed.S. with Principal Licensure: This online program helps prepare experienced teachers to meet Minnesota’s principal licensure requirements while developing the necessary skills to lead school communities. It can be completed in around one and a half years.
- Ed.S. with Director of Special Education Licensure: This program provides a direct path to licensure and leadership in special education in a fully online format. The length of the program is around one and a half years.
- Superintendent Licensure Preparation: This non-degree program provides a focused, accelerated path to superintendent licensure in Minnesota. It takes around six months to complete.
A master’s degree in education or a closely related field is generally required, along with professional experience in a school or educational setting. The admissions process typically involves submitting official transcripts, which may include the applicant’s completed master’s degrees and other relevant transcripts documenting program prerequisites and potential transfer credits.
Tuition rates are the same for whichever Ed.S. track you choose, but we provide competitive pricing and multiple payment plans. Financial aid options, including federal student loans and employer tuition assistance, are available for eligible students to help make advanced education more affordable.
What Careers and Outcomes Can Our Ed.S. Programs Lead To?
An Ed.S. degree opens doors to leadership roles in K-12 education and beyond. These programs help with advanced skills in administration, strategic planning, and educational policy, preparing you for positions that shape school systems and student success.
- Graduates often step into positions such as principal, superintendent, or director of special education.
- These educational leadership roles typically offer good pay, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $115,000 annually, depending on experience and district size.
- With an Ed.S., you can significantly increase your earning potential and expand your impact within the field of education.
Choose Saint Mary University of Minnesota for Your Ed.S. Program
If you’re searching for the right Ed.S. program for you, consider the options at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our Ed.S. programs combine our strong Lasallian Catholic mission with a commitment to ethical leadership and service in education. They also offer personalized mentorship and ongoing career support to help you succeed, along with the flexibility of online learning. To learn more about which Ed.S. program is best for your goals, request more information or apply for admission today.
FAQ About Ed.S. Programs
What is the difference between an Ed.S. and a master’s degree?
An Ed.S. degree goes beyond a master’s program by focusing on advanced leadership and administrative skills without requiring a full doctoral degree. It’s designed for educators who want to qualify for licensure and leadership roles such as principal or superintendent.
How long does it take to earn an Ed.S.?
Most Ed.S. programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota can be completed in around 18 months.
Does an Ed.S. help with licensure?
Yes, our Ed.S. programs are specifically designed to prepare you for administrative licensure in Minnesota, including roles such as principal, superintendent, or director of special education.
How can I make sure an Ed.S. degree aligns with my career goals?
Start by identifying the leadership roles or licensure you want to pursue, such as principal, superintendent, or director of special education. Then, review each program’s curriculum, pacing, and licensure preparation to confirm it matches your professional objectives.
