An Ed.S. Degree is designed to help graduates prepare for leading educational institutions toward the successful implementation of theory and practices to meet strategic visions. For advancing in all levels of education, professionals dedicated to supporting the needs and mission of students, staff, communities, and teachers can benefit professionally and personally from completion of this degree program.
Ed.S. Curriculum
The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree combines the study of theory, research, and concepts in education to help educators advance knowledge of educational communities and organizations. Most programs are designed for professionals currently working in the field of education who are interested in pursuing advancement in a current position or looking for a change to another area or level of education, and there are many options for completing an Ed.S. while continuing to work within the field of education.
Although programs vary by institution, a common program for completing an Ed.S. requires 36 credits. Courses are likely to include leading in learning, diversity in today’s schools, foundations of administrative leadership, trends and issues in education, history of education, perspectives in education, and applied research in education. The course work promotes the development of skills in communication, leadership styles and techniques, planning, financial management, and an understanding of diversity of student and staff populations.
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Ed.S. Specializations
In addition to gaining an understanding of the general knowledge needed to lead an educational institution, Ed.S. candidates also have several options for completing a degree in a specialized area of education to further match career aspirations. Some options include concentrations in administrator leadership, teacher leadership, and educational leadership and administration for principles.
Some Ed.S. candidates may also be interested in pursuing professional opportunities in positions outside of administrative roles. Specializations to help prepare for these areas of education include assessment and evaluation, curriculum and instruction, and educational technology. Classroom teachers and instructors might also consider completing concentrations in college teaching and learning, adult education, special education, early childhood, and literacy and reading.
Additional information on possibilities for specialized areas of education that can require an Ed.S. degree can be found at the Association of International Education Administration.
After Completing an Ed.S.
Completion of this post-master’s degree is often required for upper level positions in higher education and primary or secondary school administration. Positions such as principal, superintendent, dean of students, college dean, division chair, and university vice president or president are likely to require or prefer this qualification for consideration for employment.
Additionally, and Ed.S. is also beneficial for getting started with completion of an education doctorate (Ed.D.) degree. At many institutions, the Ed.S. is directly linked to the Ed.D., and credits transfer directly from the Ed.S. into the degree requirements for granting a doctoral degree.
The field of education is a personally and professionally rewarding field that offers numerous opportunities to continue to gain knowledge and skill as well as possibilities for varying a career path. With an Ed.S. degree, professional educators are able to take advantage of these career possibilities in order to support students of all ages in academic excellence.