Become the Leader Your School Needs with an Ed.S.
Excellent schools start with strong leaders. Learn how to make a difference with education specialist (Ed.S.) programs from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our programs help you take your career to the next level with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation you need to lead your school with confidence and a steadfast character. Online formatting gives you the flexibility to balance courses with your working adult lifestyle. Start your education specialist program in Minnesota today.
Why Choose Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota for Your Ed.S. Program?
As a working adult, pursuing further education with your busy lifestyle may seem overwhelming. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota makes it easier with programs that are designed for you.
Online courses, multiple start dates, and school district partnerships give you the support you need to succeed in your career and the classroom. We also offer
- Helpful student resources
- Diverse financial aid options
- Experienced faculty
- Personalized degree planning
Our programs are founded on Lasallian Catholic values. We deliver excellent academics that go beyond technical skills, emphasizing ethical leadership and decision-making. We do more than empower your career: we help you make a real difference.
Our Education Specialist Programs
After a few years as a working educator, you’re ready to grow your career. An Ed.S. program can be a fantastic way to expand your capabilities with new skills and certifications, letting you strengthen your classroom leadership or grow into new positions. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers three Ed.S. programs targeted toward different roles in education. Choose your path from the following options:
Principal
Prepare for principal licensure with our Education Specialist Degree in K-12 Principal program. Our updated curriculum prepares you to design effective educational systems, foster an inclusive school culture, and lead continuous improvement as the head of a K-12 school. After graduation, you will be prepared to sit for the licensure exam and qualify for principal positions.
Special Education
Equip yourself to succeed as a Director of Special Education with our Education Specialist Degree in Director of SPED program. This program offers a clear pathway to leadership with training in student advocacy, service design, curriculum development, assessments, and creative problem-solving targeted toward challenges in special education.
Teacher Leadership
Are you ready to become a leader at your school or district? Take the step with our Education Specialist Degree in Teacher Leadership program. This program is designed for teachers who want to focus on mentorship and instructional expertise rather than licensed administration. Through it, you will gain skills in curriculum development, cultural competence, behavioral interventions, and more.
Apply to Education Specialist Programs in Minnesota
Step into a leadership position in your school or district. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota helps you take your career further with education specialist programs in Minnesota that prepare you for administrative licensure or teacher leader roles. Learn more about our programs by requesting information from an admissions advisor, or get started by applying for admissions today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Education Specialist Programs
What is required to enroll in an education specialist program?
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota requires our Ed.S. program students to have a master’s degree, an active Minnesota teaching license, and at least three years of experience as a teacher in areas related to your program. Alternative paths to admission may be available without a teaching license, at the discretion of the program administrator.
How long does an education specialist program take?
Our education specialist programs are each 30 credits, taking around 1.5 years to complete.
Are Saint Mary’s education specialist programs online?
Yes, education specialist programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota are online, allowing for flexibility when balancing your studies with a working schedule. They also include a one-day, in-person Summer Institute to connect you with faculty, peers, and inspiring leaders.
Do education specialist programs include field experience?
Our K-12 Principal and Director of SPED programs include a 320-hour immersive field experience to meet the requirements for administrative licensure. Our Teacher Leadership program does not include this component.