Education Specialist Degree Online Programs

An Education Specialist degree online (EdS) program is suited for current educators who want to become administrative leaders for K-12 schools without commuting to campus or leaving their current position.

This degree, situated between a masters and doctoral degree, provides you with specialized skills in your subject area, and enables you to become a more effective educator and specialist.

In the course of your Ed. S. study, sometimes referred to as a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (C.A.G.S.), you will build on your existing experience in teaching and leadership. You will develop specialized skills, research-based knowledge, and practical experience that will prepare you to increase student achievement and implement instructional activities within your educational community.

This degree is especially also useful for currently licensed teachers and administrators. It provides you with the knowledge needed to increase your career options. You will be prepared for superintendent or curriculum and instruction leadership positions in schools or school districts as curriculum and instruction specialist. The research-focus of the degree also prepares you for continuing your studies with a doctoral degree.

What to expect from an online Education Specialist program

The Education Specialist degree online is designed for current educators with at least a masters degree, as well as significant experience in a school or school district. Some programs may be restricted to teachers from certain states with a teaching license in specific areas.

The degree generally consists of 27 to 36 credit hours. It would take about two years to complete the degree when taking two courses each semester. Students enrolled in a program that requires a project, thesis, or portfolio generally require more time, depending upon how quickly they get the project approved and completed. Several online Education Specialist degree program specializations are available that enable you to strengthen your knowledge in your specific subject area, including:

• Adult Education
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Technology
• Reading and Literacy
• Special Education

A Specialist Degree in Education is not usually designed for certification or licensure. The program is geared toward educators who already hold these certifications.

Featured Universities - Online Programs

University of Phoenix

• Educational Specialist (Ed.S)

Walden University

• Ed.S. in Adult Education - General
• Ed.S. in College Teaching and Learning - General
• Ed.S. in Educational Technology
• Ed.S. in Leadership for Social Change - General
• Ed.S. in Reading and Literacy Leadership - General
• Ed.S. in Special Education - General
• Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership
• Ed.S. in Administrator Leadership for Teaching and Learning
• Ed.S. in Curriculum, Instruction and Professional Development
• Ed.S. in Assessment Evaluation and Accountability - General Program
• Ed.S. in Early Childhood - General Program
• Ed.S. in Educational Leadership & Administration (Principal Preparation)

Capella University

• Education Specialist (EdS) - Curriculum and Instruction
• Education Specialist (EdS) - Leadership in Educational Administration

Liberty University

• Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Specialist (EdS) in Teaching and Learning

Undertaking an Education Specialist degree online

• Advance your career in leadership or curriculum and instruction by conveniently attending full or part-time. This enables you to continue in your current educational position, or fast track it when you have more time, such as during the summer.
• You will be able to master core educational concepts and principles in a format that fits your busy schedule. Online classrooms, discussions, and resources all enable you to learn at your own pace, and at a time that is convenient for you.
• Attending an accredited online school for your Education Specialist program ensures that you are receiving the quality skills needed to quickly advance your career in education. Accredited online colleges offer the same quality and curriculum as campus based colleges.
• Typical courses for a Specialist degree in Education include research methods and design, principles of educational administration, advanced curriculum and instruction, educating diverse populations and program evaluation.

Career opportunities

A specialist degree in education prepares you for superintendent or curriculum and instruction leadership positions in schools and school districts. This includes superintendents, principals, supervisors, or curriculum and professional development specialists.

Job growth for K-12 principals is expected to increase by about as fast as average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with an average annual salary of $86,970 in 2010. On the other hand, curriculum specialists, such as instructional coordinators, should see faster job growth due to the increasing demand by school districts for methods to improve the effectiveness of teachers. The average salary for instructional coordinators was $58,830 in May 2010.

Related choices

Online Educational Leadership Doctorate programs provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in administrative or leadership positions in secondary schools or school districts. This degree is ideal for current educators with a master’s degree or Education Specialist who wish to advance their career.

Online Certification in Educational Leadership programs provide current educators with an opportunity to succeed as a school leader. These programs are designed for educators with a bachelor's degree who wish to become a school principal or a school district leader. They can be completed as a terminal certification, or as preparation for a master's or doctoral degree.

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