If you want to strengthen your academic leadership skills, consider earning an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree. This postgraduate credential is designed for experienced educators who want to advance into administrative roles. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers three fully online Ed.S. programs that combine academic excellence with the flexibility working professionals need. Here, we explore what Ed.S. degrees are and how completing one can support your next career move.
Ed.S. Programs at a Glance
- Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers fully online Ed.S. programs designed for working professionals seeking licensure and career advancement.
- Each program is aligned with Minnesota’s administrative licensure standards and includes mentorship and flexible pacing.
- S. degree holders often qualify for higher salaries and expanded responsibilities in K-12 education leadership.
What Is an Ed.S. Degree? Overview and Definition
An Ed.S. degree is a postgraduate program that provides advanced preparation for leadership roles in K-12 education. Positioned between a master’s and a doctorate, an Ed.S. degree is designed for experienced educators who want to deepen their expertise and pursue licensure as principals, directors of special education, or superintendents.
What Are the Program Options and Requirements?
All Ed.S. programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota are delivered completely online, offering the flexibility working educators need to balance professional responsibilities with graduate study. Each program is designed to prepare educators for licensure in Minnesota and is aligned with the state’s leadership competencies. Our three pathways are:
Ed.S. with Principal Licensure
The Ed.S. with Principal Licensure program is designed for educators who are ready to lead with confidence, character, and impact. This online program prepares experienced teachers to meet Minnesota’s licensure requirements while developing the skills to lead inclusive, high-performing school communities. Graduates learn to foster positive school culture, benefit from research-based coursework, and take the next step to lead with integrity.
Candidates are required to have at least three years of teaching experience in a Minnesota school setting. However, a provisional admission pathway may be available for applicants who do not yet meet all eligibility criteria. This program can be completed in approximately one and a half years, allowing educators to advance their careers while continuing to work.
Ed.S. with Director of SPED Licensure
The Ed.S. with Director of Special Education Licensure program is for educators who want to lead and improve special education services at the district level. This program offers a direct path to licensure and leadership in special education, and prepares educators to lead with integrity, evaluate and enhance special education programs, and advocate for students with diverse learning needs.
Candidates for this program are required to have at least three years of special education teaching experience in a Minnesota school setting. A valid teaching license is also necessary. The program is designed to be completed in approximately one and a half years through a flexible, fully online format.
Superintendent Licensure Preparation Program
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a fully online Superintendent Licensure Preparation Program for experienced educators ready to lead district administration. While not a full Ed.S. degree, this program offers a focused, accelerated path to superintendent licensure in Minnesota. It is designed to be completed in approximately six months, making it an efficient option for working professionals seeking district-level leadership roles.
This program blends strategic leadership theory with practical application, preparing educators to lead with vision, pedagogical excellence, and a deep commitment to student success. Candidates must currently hold a valid Minnesota K-12 principal or director of special education license.
Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership Program
For experienced educators who aren’t interested in licensed administration, our Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership program is an ideal option. This one-and-a-half-year program is designed for teachers who want to enhance their instructional and leadership skills to pursue roles like department lead, instructional coach, mentor, or curriculum coordinator.
The program covers topics like instructional strategies, curriculum development, collaborative relationships, mentoring and coaching practices, cultivation of diversity, and ethical leadership. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. They must also have at least 21 credits in specific educational areas.
Please note: Costs of the Ed.S. programs vary depending on the option you pursue, but students enrolled in them may be eligible for financial aid to help support their educational goals.
What Are the Outcomes and Career Opportunities for Ed.S. Degree Holders?
Earning an Education Specialist degree opens the door to advanced leadership roles in K-12 education. Whether you’re pursuing principal licensure, special education leadership, or district-level administration, an Ed.S. equips you with the skills, credentials, and confidence to lead with purpose.
What Skills Can Be Gained from Earning an Ed.S. Degree?
Graduates of our Ed.S. programs develop a wide range of leadership and administrative skills:
- The ability to lead strategic planning initiatives and implement system-level improvements across schools or districts
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to engage effectively with teachers, families, and community stakeholders
- Ethical decision-making and culturally responsive leadership abilities that are grounded in equity and inclusion
What Roles Might Be Achieved from Earning an Ed.S. Degree?
An Ed.S. degree opens the door to a variety of high-impact leadership roles in K-12 education. The specific role depends on the program that you pursue, but options include:
- K-12 principals, who lead school communities with a focus on academic excellence and student well-being
- Directors of special education, who oversee district-wide programs and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
- Superintendents, who manage district operations, policy, and long-term strategic planning
Non-licensed administrative roles include curriculum coordinator, instructional coach, mentor, or department lead.
What Is the Expected Salary for Students Earning an Ed.S. Degree?
Earning an Ed.S. degree can lead to significantly higher earning potential in educational leadership roles. For example, the average salaries for the following roles are:
- School principal: The average salary for a principal in Minnesota is $109,408 per year.
- Special education director: The average salary for a SPED director in Minnesota is $107,190 per year.
- Superintendent: The average salary for a superintendent in MN is $163,674 per year.
Find an Outstanding Online Ed.S. Degree Program Near You in Minnesota
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers fully online Education Specialist degree programs designed to help experienced educators advance into roles such as principal, director of special education, or superintendent.
Our students benefit from a mission-driven mentorship model, flexible online learning, and comprehensive licensure preparation aligned with Minnesota state standards, empowering them to lead with confidence. Request more information or apply today to start your path toward an Ed.S. degree.
FAQ About Ed.S. Degrees
How is an Ed.S. degree different from a master’s or doctoral degree?
An Ed.S. degree is a post-master’s credential that offers advanced leadership training without the research or dissertation required in a doctorate program.
What is an Ed.S. degree used for?
An Ed.S. degree prepares educators for licensure and leadership roles, such as principal, director of special education, or superintendent.
How long does it take to complete an Ed.S. degree?
Most Ed.S. degree programs can be completed in 1.5 years. However, the superintendent licensure non-degree program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota takes as little as six months to complete.
Is an Ed.S. degree available online?
Yes, all Ed.S. programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota are delivered fully online for flexibility.
