An Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Administration degree is a post-master’s degree program designed for experienced educators seeking advanced leadership roles in K-12 schools. Ed.S. programs typically require around 30 credit hours and can be completed in one to two years — a faster path than doctoral programs.
Unlike an Ed.D., which requires extensive research and a dissertation, the Ed.S. focuses on applied leadership skills, making it an efficient option for educators who want to move beyond the classroom into positions like principal, assistant principal or district-level administrator. The St. Thomas University (STU) 100% online Ed.S. in Administration program provides professionals with in-demand training and credentials on a flexible schedule while balancing work and family commitments. Students develop many of the same competencies taught in an Ed.D. program (minus the dissertation), and credits earned are transferable into STU’s online Ed.D in Educational Leadership – Administration program.
Understanding the Education Specialist Degree
The Education Specialist degree occupies a unique place in the field of education. It is more advanced than a master’s degree but doesn’t require the intensive research component of a doctorate. This makes it an attractive option for working professionals who want to deepen their expertise and qualify for leadership positions without putting their careers on hold for several years.
Most Ed.S. in Administration programs require 30 to 45 credit hours beyond a master’s degree and typically take 18 to 24 months to complete. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application, with many programs incorporating internships, field experiences and capstone projects that address actual challenges in school administration.
Ed.S. programs are designed for working educators. Many offer flexible scheduling options, including evening classes, weekend sessions and online formats, like the one at STU, that allow students to pursue advanced credentials while they continue to work. Unlike doctoral programs that emphasize original research and theoretical contributions to the field, Ed.S. programs prioritize the practical skills administrators need to lead schools effectively.
Ed.S. in Administration: Leadership-Focused Curriculum
The Ed.S. in Administration distinguishes itself by emphasizing actionable leadership skills. While master’s programs introduce foundational concepts in educational leadership, the Ed.S. builds on those principles, preparing educators to handle the complex realities of school administration in today’s educational landscape.
Most Ed.S. programs incorporate extensive field-based components that allow students to apply leadership concepts in real school settings. These internships and practicum experiences typically involve working alongside experienced administrators, taking on progressively more responsible leadership roles, and demonstrating competency in key administrative functions. STU’s online Ed.S. program focuses on key areas of educational leadership, including:
- Strategic planning and vision development for creating school improvement initiatives
- Instructional leadership skills for evaluating teaching effectiveness and supporting professional development
- Data-driven decision-making to analyze assessment results and guide instructional strategies
- School finance and resource management for budget development
- Educational law and policy, compliance, ethical leadership and student rights
- Community engagement for building partnerships with families and community organizations
Career Paths With an Ed.S. in Administration
The Ed.S. in Administration prepares educators for a range of leadership positions at both the school and district levels. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 20,800 annual job openings for elementary, middle and high school principals are projected to be added each year through 2034.
Many Ed.S. in Administration graduates move into school-level administrative roles. BLS reports that elementary, middle and high school principals earn a median annual salary of $104,070, with 333,300 individuals employed in these positions nationwide in 2024. Beyond the principal role, Ed.S. graduates often pursue positions as assistant principals, deans of students or department chairs — roles that provide leadership experience while maintaining closer connections to classroom instruction.
Ed.S. graduates can also pursue district-level roles such as curriculum coordinators, instructional coaches and assessment directors. These positions involve working across multiple schools to develop district-wide initiatives and support teacher development. The American Association of School Administrators represents more than 14,000 educational leaders who guide policy and practice in K-12 education. Some Ed.S. graduates move into specialized areas like special education administration or student services leadership, with salaries typically comparable to school principals.
Choosing the Right Path: Ed.S. vs. Ed.D.
For educators considering post-master’s study, understanding the differences between the Ed.S. and Ed.D. can help clarify which degree best aligns with their career goals. Both degrees can lead to administrative positions, but they differ significantly in focus, time commitment and career applications.
The primary distinction lies in scope and time commitment. Ed.S. programs typically require 30 to 45 credit hours, while Ed.D. programs often require twice as many credit hours, along with comprehensive exams and a dissertation. The Ed.D. dissertation process alone can add two to three years to a program, whereas Ed.S. programs usually culminate in a capstone project that can be completed within the regular coursework timeline.
For working educators, the Ed.S. offers several practical advantages: faster completion allows professionals to advance their careers in two years rather than four to six; lower total cost due to fewer required credit hours; immediate applicability with coursework focused on practical leadership skills; and flexibility to continue working full-time while building leadership credentials. The Ed.S. is particularly well-suited for educators who want to move into K-12 administration and prefer a direct path to leadership positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Ed.S. in Administration raises practical questions for educators considering this degree path. Understanding program requirements, career outcomes and how this credential compares to other options can help you make an informed decision.
How long does an Ed.S. in Administration take to complete?
Most Ed.S. in Administration programs can be completed in 18 to 24 months when pursued part-time, allowing you to continue working while earning your degree. Full-time students may finish in as few as 12 months. Many programs offer flexible scheduling, such as evening, weekend or online courses designed for working educators.
What jobs can I get with an Ed.S. in Administration?
The Ed.S. prepares you for K-12 leadership positions, including school principal, assistant principal, dean of students, curriculum coordinator, instructional coach and district-level administrative roles. BLS reports that principals earn a median annual salary of $104,070. The degree qualifies you for positions requiring advanced leadership credentials beyond a master’s degree.
Do I need an Ed.S. to become a school principal?
Requirements vary by state, but most require at least a master’s degree in educational leadership along with teaching experience. BLS notes that principals typically need a master’s degree and most states require licensure. While an Ed.S. isn’t always mandatory, it provides a competitive advantage and may fulfill advanced licensure requirements in states with tiered certification systems.
Can Ed.S. credits transfer to a doctoral program?
Many Ed.D. programs accept some credits from an Ed.S. program, though policies vary by institution. Students who complete their online Ed.S. at St. Thomas University may transfer all credit hours into St. Thomas University’s Ed.D in Educational Leadership – Administration online program.
What’s the main difference between an Ed.S. and an Ed.D.?
An Ed.S. typically requires 30 to 45 credit hours beyond a master’s degree and focuses on applied leadership skills for K-12 administration. An Ed.D. requires at least twice as many credit hours and includes a dissertation. Ed.S. programs emphasize practical application and can be completed in one to two years, while Ed.D. programs emphasize research and typically take three to five years. Both can lead to leadership positions, but the Ed.D. is considered a terminal degree.
About St. Thomas University
STU was founded in 1961 as Biscayne College by the order of the Augustinian Friars. Now with students from 80 countries and 41 states represented, and more than 75-degree programs and a growing online presence, St. Thomas University is renowned for its leadership development in justice, science, business and ministry.
STU’s 100% online Educational Specialist in Administration program is designed for working educators ready to advance into school leadership roles. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based solutions and ethical leadership. All credits are transferable to St. Thomas University’s Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – Administration program.
Learn more about STU’s online Educational Specialist in Administration program.
