woman wearing black glasses and a plum headscarf smiles at the camera

Education Specialist (EdS)

computer icon

100% Online EdS

Complete your studies on your own time.

calendar icon

New start date every Monday

Start your first course when it’s convenient for you.

graduation cap icon

18 Months to your EdS

Finish your EdS-EdL in just 11 courses.

Home » Programs » Education Specialist

Take the first step in your National University Journey

Courses Start Every Monday

Request Information

Education Specialist

Develop the skills and knowledge within a certain education subject without investing the time and resources necessary for a doctorate with the 100% online Education Specialist (EdS) degree program at National University. Whether you are looking to advance in your chosen field or embark on a new career, the Education Specialist program is for you. No matter which of our 16 specializations you choose, you’ll learn to make informed, ethical decisions and help improve today’s educational, organizational, and societal issues. 

Become an Expert with a Specialization

Our Education Specialist (EdS) program was designed to provide those who want to know more about a certain subject within education, but do not need a doctorate, the option of advancing their education. An EdS degree is more advanced than a master’s degree, but less time and resource-consuming than a doctorate degree. If you are looking for an education specialist program, NU’s online program gives you the opportunity to develop the same specialized knowledge that you would find in NU’s EdD program, but without the requirement to write a dissertation.

WASC icon

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

  • Credit Hours: 33
  • Courses: 11
  • Estimated Time to Complete: 18 months

The EdS in Education requires two Foundations courses, two Research courses, six Specialization courses, and one Capstone course for a total of 33 credit hours.

Both the Education Specialist (EdS) and Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership (EdS-EdL) require that all foundations courses and specialization or core courses be completed prior to students starting the capstone course.

This foundational course will introduce you to the concepts and practices of advanced graduate study. You will examine concepts and expectations of advanced graduate study and academic integrity as well as investigate best practices of scholarship and research. You will explore university resources and supports associated with student success, including technologies for learning and research. You will also evaluate the program process and requirements for success. Finally, you will advocate for self-care and reflection during your studies.

Academic writing is at the heart of scholarly writing. How you explore and navigate your topic of interest is both a personal and professional matter. In this course, you will integrate effective research and writing skills, and evaluate standards of academic writing, honesty, and integrity. Literature and writing are closely related, so this course also offers you a first chance to examine the elements of conceptual and theoretical frameworks and critique the role of supporting literature and inquiry with conceptual and theoretical frameworks. Finally, you will synthesize the frameworks commonly used in educational research.

In this introductory research course, you will explore the underpinnings of the research process, examine research paradigms, and investigate theoretical and practical foundations of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used within educational research. You will identify criteria for the development of a quality research study that is ethical, accurate, comprehensive, cohesive, and aligned. Specific course topics will involve the ethics of conducting research; data collection and analysis techniques; and issues of feasibility, trustworthiness, validity, reliability, generalizability or transferability, and rigor. This course is intended to familiarize you with concepts and skills associated with conducting theoretical and applied research.

This course focuses on qualitative research methodology and designs and the methods used to collect and analyze data in educational research. You will examine the principles of qualitative research and explore commonly used designs (also referred to as qualitative traditions or genres) with a focus on application and feasibility. Qualitative data collection and analysis methods will be examined for their suitability with regard to the research design selected. Alignment between qualitative designs and research methods, issues of trustworthiness pertaining to qualitative research, and the role and responsibilities of the qualitative researcher will also be explored.

This course explores the quantitative research methodology and associated designs and methods. You will examine paradigmatic perspectives along with the tenets and conventions of quantitative research. This examination of designs and methods will include topics such as feasibility, validity, reliability, variable operationalization, inferential designs, and analytic software applications used within the quantitative research paradigm. You will also explore the components of aligned and coherent quantitative research designs that support meaningful research within the field of education.

This course is the culmination of the Education Specialist (EdS) program. You will conclude your program by working with a specific educational program relevant to your current or future context. You will review the related literature and evaluate data that will help you to develop potential solutions and future areas of research related to your identified problem. Finally, you will reflect on your personal learning journey throughout your program.

Degree Requirements

The EdS Program may be completed in 33 credits. An Academic and Finance Advisor or Enrollment Specialist evaluates each student individually and works with the student to create an academically sound Learning Plan based on prior academics and their professional goals.

The University may accept up to 12 semester credit hours in transfer with a maximum of 9 semester credit hours in transfer eligible toward the specialization courses in the Education Specialist degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better. Transfer credit is only awarded for coursework that is evaluated to be substantially equivalent in content with the required coursework for the EdS program. See the Transfer Credit Policy in the Course Catalog for additional information.

Individuals with a previously completed master’s degree will meet the basis of admission to the Education Specialist Program. Students enrolled in the Education Specialist program are required to complete foundations, scholarly writing, specialization courses, and the capstone course with a Grade Point Average of 3.00 (B) or higher.

The Education Specialist (EdS) program emphasizes an applied, project-based approach to development of appreciable improvements in the body of educational practice. The EdS attracts individuals who are primarily professionals either at the PK-12 level or the higher education level. (Enrollment managers, superintendents, principals, teacher leaders, and education faculty who primarily teach – not do research, educational consultants, trainers in organizations). The EdS capstone focuses on solving a problem in the workplace or in the professional field of education and results in a “product” or solution. This degree is also intended to help students increase their own workplace Leadership Skills.

Specializations

For those looking to deepen their understanding of education and enhance their knowledge, skills, and professional competencies in instructional practice and leadership, this certificate offers a thorough exploration of curriculum and its influence on teaching and learning. The coursework provides a foundational knowledge in communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies allow you the opportunity to explore, design, apply, and evaluate contemporary curriculum and instruction strategies. The program culminates with two capstone courses that allow you to integrate these disciplines toward specific topics that are of greatest interest to you and your professional goals.

Learn More

The latest devices and techniques for electronic learning present a powerful toolkit of educational opportunities, whether applied in the classroom, over long distances, or as a supplement to class instruction. This EdS specialization provides professional educators with the most current research and practices for integrating curriculum development, instructional design, and course delivery using technology and online learning management systems. The coursework provides a foundational knowledge in communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies allow you to explore and improve the strategies, practices, applications, and accessibilities related to electronic teaching and learning experiences.

Learn More

Providing young children with a love of learning and the best possible launch on their educational journey can be some of the richest rewards in teaching. This EdS specialization builds on your existing knowledge and skills in early childhood education and furthers your development into an advanced practitioner in the field. The coursework provides a foundational knowledge in communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies allow you to explore the topics of curriculum, literacy, program administration, caregivers, and community as you prepare to contribute to the growth and development of young children and the sources of their educational success.

Learn More

As classrooms, businesses, and organizations across the U.S. and around the world grow increasingly diverse, the demand and rewards have never been higher for educators with the leadership and abilities to teach English to non-native speakers. The EdS English Language Learning (ELL) specialization will help you build on your existing knowledge and skills in the field. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies take a deep dive into ELL teaching, assessment, student diversity, curriculum development, and cultural perspectives. If you’re seeking ELL/ESL certification, you should verify with appropriate state officials that this non-degree certificate meets applicable certification requirements.

Learn More

One of the most attractive characteristics of our specialization programs is your ability to tailor your degree and coursework to meet your specific interests and career journey. The EdS in General Education allows you to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit your personal and professional goals.

The required coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies allow you to focus on topics of your choosing. A minimum of 18 credit hours of education courses must be completed at the 7000 or 8000 course level, and up to two of these courses may be taken from other fields, i.e., psychology, technology and/or business. With dean approval, you may even consider additional courses (more than two) from other disciplines to fulfill this requirement.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist school districts and state educational boards as they work to improve the instructional capabilities of our schools. This specialization provides a strong background in supervision and the ability to assess and interpret data on curriculum, instructional practice, and innovation. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies focus on practicing leadership by creating organizations, cultures, decision-making processes, change strategies, and community advocacy that improve instruction and enhance student achievement.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist school districts, educational boards, and institutions of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization focuses on educational policies, practices, institutions, and challenges within different societies and cultures. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies examine educational issues and opportunities related to different cultures and societies. You’ll focus on educational conflict, mediation, and resolution, and explore the concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice within international and global education. 

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist school districts, state educational boards, and institutions of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization prepares you to lead in a variety of higher education institutions, including public, private, for profit, and non-profit. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies examine leadership across a variety of functions and considerations, such as student services, strategic planning, academic programs, curriculum development, legal issues, and financial concerns.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, and state educational boards as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization immerses you in the increasingly popular and growing field of educational learning analytics. The coursework explores the foundations of learner analytics and its key theories, leading experts, best practices, and K-12 applications. You’ll study the difference between academic and learning analytics, and examine the role technology and data mining play in both. Ultimately, you’ll learn how to identify and apply relevant data in the K-12 educational environment, such as demographics, academic ability, student engagement measures, financial aid, technology and online measures, etc.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization prepares you for leadership roles within educational organizations by providing you with the tools necessary to make things happen. The program is grounded in applied research and explores issues and resolutions in contemporary organizations. Coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies focus on strategies that forge alliances, build confidence, and inspire a shared vision.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization provides K-12 professionals, emergency management, and district management personnel with the skills and tools to keep schools safe and secure for students, teachers, and the learning process. The program provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies focus on technologies to manage safety, security, and emergencies; threat assessments of people and facilities; restorative justice and other alternatives to student discipline; and how to implement and improve school safety plans.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) specialization provides mid-career or advanced classroom teachers, school counselors or psychologists, and administrators with an intensive examination of the five core competencies identified by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL): self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. The program gives a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research techniques, while the specialty studies examine CASEL competencies and their application across classrooms, schools, homes, and communities.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization is designed for professionals who work with gifted and disabled students in a variety of settings. The program covers a wide spectrum of related issues, including the development and characteristics of students, learning differences, and instructional strategies to address these special needs. You’ll acquire the knowledge and skills to plan, assess, and deliver instruction to gifted students and those with mental, physical, behavioral, or learning disabilities.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization prepares professionals for the growing discipline of sports and athletics management through practical application and doctoral research on the key influences impacting the field. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research methods, while the specialty studies combine science-based academics and real-world experience with an emphasis on the ever-changing financial, legal, political, and marketing concerns within the sports industry.

Learn More

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. This specialization builds on fundamental teaching and learning skills by focusing on specific trauma-informed educational practices. The coursework provides a foundational understanding of communication, leadership, and research methods, while the specialty studies extend across various educational settings and populations, preparing you for a trauma-informed approach to teaching and learning. You’ll examine how trauma manifests in different populations and communities, specific trauma-informed strategies for the classroom, and how to strengthen resilience among both students and educators.

Learn More

Career Potential*

  • Education Teachers, Postsecondary
  • Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School
  • Education Administrators, All Other
  • Training and Development Specialists
  • Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education
  • Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
  • Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
  • Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program specific requirements with an NU advisor. Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.

Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of National University’s Education Specialist (EdS) program, you will be able to:

  • Develop skills to support educational practices across diverse instructional and organizational settings
  • Communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices
  • Analyze professional skills, dispositions, and technology options for learning and educating diverse groups
  • Apply evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues
  • Analyze current research, theories, and instructional practices in educational and organizational environments

Admissions

National University’s dedicated admissions team is here to help you throughout the admissions process. We accept and review applications year-round and, once you are admitted, you can begin your studies as soon as the next week.

Admission to the Education Specialist (EdS) program requires a conferred post-baccalaureate master’s degree and/or doctoral degree from a regionally or nationally accredited academic institution or an international institution determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service.

Questions? Call our admissions team at 866.776.0331 or request information and an advisor will be in touch soon. Ready to apply? Start your NU application today.

Man in a button-down shirt smiles at a young boy in glasses who also wears a backpack
Weekly Course Starts
Our course structure is built to make earning your degree accessible and achievable by offering a rigorous, yet flexible program that works with your schedule.

Why Choose National University

  • Weekly Course Start
  • 100% Online Coursework
  • No Physical Residency Requirements

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with 230,000 alumni worldwide.

head shot image of man named Francisco

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

-Francisco R., Class of 2016

A mother sits on a couch with a laptop and smiles at her toddler-aged son, who is looking forward.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
We know your life may not happen on a 9-5 schedule, so we offer courses online or on-site at locations across California.
white scholarship oppotunities icon

The Key Grant Scholarship

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

An education specialist degree, or EdS, is an advanced practitioner course that goes beyond the master’s degree. It is designed for educators seeking to continue their studies but not interested in a doctorate program.

If you aspire to further your education beyond the master’s degree to help you solve real-world problems in your field of expertise, prepare you for a leadership role, or carve a new career path, the answer is yes. 

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.