Trying to find an online Education Specialist degree from a regionally accredited university? Hoping to compare programs that are open to out-of-state applicants? Our rankings of the Best Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership Rankings
Methodology: How We Ranked Online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Programs
When it comes to Ed.S. in Educational Leadership programs, the two most important words are “practicality” and “results.” That’s why our 2025 rankings of the top 25 online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) programs are based on a weighted algorithm that takes into account the following factors:
- Admissions & Completions: Our average for each school includes Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data for rates of acceptance into a program and rates of completion.
- Outcomes: Whenever possible, we found statistics for graduate debt and earnings and factored those data points into our averages. Universities with high post-graduate salaries and low debt loads shot up in the ranks.
- Reputation: We gave a rankings boost to universities that attained top 25 spots from U.S. News & World Report and Times Higher Education (THE).
Online Ed.S. programs can be tricky beasts to categorize! After sorting the schools, we had to make some decisions about what programs to include & exclude. Here’s where we landed:
- Accreditation: All of the programs in our rankings are offered by non-profit, regionally accredited universities. We’ve highlighted any schools that also hold CAEP accreditation.
- Availability: We automatically excluded any Ed.S. programs that were only open to in-state applicants OR had coursework that was exclusively focused on state licensure. We included any programs that were open to out-of-state students, including those with non-licensure and licensure tracks. For more, see our advice section on online licensure programs.
- Delivery: All offerings had to be 100% online. Even if they were ranked highly by our algorithm, we excluded any Ed.S. programs that were on-campus or hybrid (e.g. University of Florida). Just be aware that online programs with licensure tracks may include on-the-ground elements like field work and internships within your local area.
- Focus: These rankings are devoted to programs in educational leadership. For us, that term encompasses Ed.S. majors like Educational Administration, Instructional Leadership, and Teacher Leadership. Looking for other majors? We’ve included links to alternative online Ed.S. programs offered by the university.
Methods: How to Use the Best Online Ed.S. Profiles
We strive to ensure that our rankings are focused on real-world concerns. To help you narrow your choices down, we’ve highlighted the unique elements of each program. Within the profile, you’ll find:
- Decision Points: The most important points are listed below the link to the program. These include the length of the degree, the number of credits (important for pricing), CAEP accreditation, and whether licensure tracks are available (e.g. Principal, Superintendent, Teacher Leader, etc.). In a number of cases, licensure is optional.
- Departmental Strengths: We’ve profiled the university’s Department of Educational Leadership and provided links to faculty profiles, leadership-focused research centers, and PreK-12 outreach initiatives. If you’re opting for an out-of-state Ed.S. program, you’ll want to pick one that aligns closely with your career interests.
- Scheduling: Although all of the Education Specialist programs in our rankings are 100% online, there are a few that include synchronous, “real-time” elements (e.g. attending a weeknight online class). We’ve flagged that in our profiles in case you need to think about time zones and family commitments.
- Practical Considerations: To save you time, our profiles also have links to admission requirements and tuition rates. We’ve quoted GPA thresholds in our descriptions, but it’s worth double-checking the fine print before you apply. The good news is that many of these schools overlap with our Most Affordable Online Ed.S. rankings (programs under $20k).
All in all, it’s an intriguing list for 2025. A hefty portion of these programs have been developed by sturdy flagship universities in both urban and rural settings. Many schools are happy to offer non-licensure tracks. And you’ll find plenty of variety within the coursework. Grab your cup of coffee and start making decisions!
15 Top Schools with Online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Programs
1 Indiana University
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 60 (30 with Master’s)
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Optional for IN Educators (Principal)
Why Choose IU’s Online Ed.S. Program?
IU’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership hits all the sweet spots! It’s customizable, affordable, and available in non-licensure and licensure tracks. Better yet, it’s backed by a school with an excellent reputation in the Midwest. The IU School of Education achieves strong pass rates on licensure programs and has a history of P-12 outreach. Be sure to explore the research & service projects within the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies (ELPS) before you make a decision. Faculty have their hands in a number of initiatives, including ones that focus on urban school districts, education policy, and principalship around the world. You may wish to select Ed.S. electives that overlap with these interests.
Online Ed.S. Overview
This 100% Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership is open to applicants with a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree; all candidates should have at least 2 years of teaching experience. If you’re applying with a master’s degree, talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator about your situation. Up to 30 credits can be transferred from a graduate program, but you’ll need to discuss what courses will qualify. The program website states that licensure tracks are available, but only the principal concentration is listed as being online.
The full curriculum can be found in the Bulletin. In addition to building-level & district-level courses (e.g. budgets), we were intrigued to see that the Ed.S. features 9 credits of electives and 9 credits of a cognate area. This should give you plenty of opportunities to focus on a particular realm of interest (e.g. policy, student services, intermediate schools, etc.). You’ll also be expected to complete an internship, as well as a dissertation proposal OR research seminar. The latter will give you a firm footing for Ed.D. studies in the future.
Note: IU Bloomington offers a Hybrid Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Online Ed.D. programs in more specialist areas.
2 University of Missouri
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 35
Length: 2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Principal
Why Choose Mizzou’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Aspiring PreK-12 principals may want to take a good hard look at Mizzou’s program. It’s the brainchild of a switched-on Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis (ELPA) within a nationally ranked College of Education & Human Development (CEHD). The Department has developed its own Middle Level Leadership Center (MLLC) that deploys field-based research in intermediate schools and its faculty have plenty of projects on the boil. We were intrigued to see that the CEHD also has a stake in PreK-12 behavioral science & mental initiatives through its outreach programs.
Online Ed.S. Overview
Mizzou states that its Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis: Elementary & Secondary School Principal Certification fulfills building-level requirements in many locations. In fact, if you check the State Authorization map, you’ll notice that the Principal track is authorized in almost every state. Talk to your State Education Agency and the Ed.S. program coordinator before applying if you’re coming from out-of-state. And keep in mind that Mizzou would like to see candidates with a minimum 3.5 GPA on any graduate studies.
Then visit the Courses section to learn more about the curriculum! You’ll tackle a chunk of district-level credits that cross over with superintendent training, as well as a principal course in Site-Level Organization and Leadership. Two internships are included in the program; to be eligible for PK–12 building-level certifications, 300 internship hours must usually be completed. The program is 100% online, but set aside some time for live virtual meetings—courses combine synchronous & asynchronous learning. And don’t forget to check if you’re eligible for any CEHD graduate scholarships.
Note: Mizzou offers an Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. The Online Superintendent Ed.S. is not authorized outside of Missouri and the Executive Superintendency track is not accepting applications.
3 University of Kentucky
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30
Length: 20 Months
CAEP-Accredited: No
Licensure Track: Optional for KY Educators (Teacher Leader)
Why Choose UK’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Aiming to enrich your leadership skills as an educator? Put UK’s Online Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership on your list. It comes from a Departmental of Educational Leadership Studies with a roster of experienced faculty members and a special interest in public schools. The College of Education runs the UK Center for Next Generation Leadership, which serves 55 Kentucky districts and 7 regional co-op partners. In particular, check out the impact reports for the Next Generation Leadership Academy. UK is digging deep into systems change & innovative approaches and some of that work is being folded into the Ed.S. curriculum.
Online Ed.S. Overview
The Online Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership is open to master’s candidates with a minimum 3.0 GPA; experience working as a PreK-12 teacher or educational practitioner is preferred. Kentucky students have the option to pursue the Teacher Leader endorsement & rank change. Out-of-state applicants who are seeking certification should check the State Authorization page and talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator and their Department of Education.
As UK notes, this is a program for folks who are hoping to move up the ranks to established positions (e.g. Department Chair) or act as instructional models & peer mentors. We love the fact that it embeds graduate certificates within the curriculum—you can focus on Instructional Coaching, Leadership for Deeper Learning, or School Technology Leadership. And we’re pleased to see that it includes 5 elective courses and a portfolio-based capstone project. Visit the Graduate Catalog to view the complete curriculum.
Note: UK also offers an Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, but it’s designed for Kentucky educators seeking in-state principal certification. Administrators may wish to consider the Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership instead.
4 University of Alabama
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Teacher Leader
Why Choose UA’s Online Ed.S. Program?
It’s cohort-based. It’s offered at an extremely reasonable price. And it’s from a big public research university that’s known across the country. UA’s Ed.S. is taught by diverse faculty from the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy & Technology Studies—take a moment to read their bios before applying. We noticed interests in everything from rural schools and segregation to effective school leadership measures. Better yet, the College has established its own Office of School Partnerships and has a vested interest in afterschool programs through the Alabama Extended Learning Alliance (AELA) and Afterschool Alliance.
Online Ed.S. Overview
UA’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership (Teacher Leader P-12 Certification) is geared toward Alabama educators who are seeking Class AA certification, but it’s open to teacher leaders in other states. Visit the section on state authorization and chat to the Ed.S. program coordinator. All applicants are expected to have a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, a valid master’s level professional educator certificate in any teaching field or area of instructional support, and at least 3 years of PreK-12 teaching experience.
The curriculum covers a wide swathe of topics—including adult learners, evaluating education programs, and teaching & learning communities—and field work is incorporated into a number of courses. The Graduate Catalog has a full list of descriptions. It’s the kind of program that feels like a run up to an Ed.D., so it’s worth asking about the possibility of credit transfers into UA’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. There’s plenty of crossover between the two degrees.
Note: UA also offers Online Ed.S. programs in a number of specialist & grade-specific areas.
5 George Washington University
Delivery: 100% Online or Hybrid
Credits: 30
Length: 2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Principal
Why Choose GW’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Reputation. The Graduate School of Education & Human Development (GSEHD) is part of a Carnegie R1 research university with a hefty budget and it’s a big education player in the DC area. This Ed.S. is a particularly strong choice if you’re interested in ideas around equity and social justice. In the fall of 2023, the Educational Leadership & Administration (ELA) program launched its first equity-centered leadership cohort with the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS). Many ELA faculty are also actively involved in the Educational Equity and School Improvement Research Interest Group (RIG).
Online Ed.S. Overview
Although GW’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration (ELA) is designed to meet administrative certification requirements in DC, it can also serve the needs of educators in other interstate compact agreement partner states (e.g. Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, etc.). Read through the section on Teacher & Administrator Certification and talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator about your goals. All Ed.S. candidates must have a minimum of 1 year of teaching experience.
Aspiring administrators will find plenty of practical coursework in the curriculum, including credits in school law & policy, school finance, and community engagement. In addition, Ed.S. students are expected to complete an internship and action research project at a school or central office location. GW’s program is much more expensive than other schools in our rankings, so we recommend reaching out to alumni and looking into scholarships before committing.
Note: GW has also developed an Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration.
6 University of Idaho
Delivery: 100% Online or Hybrid
Credits: 60 (30 with Master’s)
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Principal or Superintendent or Special Education Director
Why Choose U of I’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Rural educators, take note! U of I’s Department of Leadership and Counseling (L&C) and the College of Education, Health & Human Sciences have a history of serving rural schools, as well as Native American populations. The College founded the Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Education Program (IKEEP) in 2016 and it supports at-risk students in Idaho schools & districts through the Idaho Building Capacity (IBC) project. It has also been creating principal cohorts for Idaho school districts since 2007. Check out the L&C faculty bios for more info on your potential professors.
Online Ed.S. Overview
U of I’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership is a licensure program that’s designed to lead to Idaho’s Standard Administrative Certificate with a principal, special education director, or superintendent endorsement. However, U of I will consider out-of-state applicants—talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator about your situation. You can apply with a bachelor’s degree (3.0 undergraduate GPA) or master’s degree (3.5 graduate GPA). Up to 30 credits of your existing master’s degree can be counted toward Ed.S. to total a minimum of 60 credits.
The L&C Graduate Handbook has a complete rundown of courses for each of the 3 certification tracks. All tracks feature a two-semester internship—aspiring principals & superintendents are expected to work with a practicing administrator in an elementary or secondary school or district office. No thesis is required.
7 University of Arkansas
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30
Length: 18 Months
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Superintendent
Why Choose U of A’s Online Ed.S. Program?
It helps to be the flagship institution of a public university system! Thanks to its connection to the mother school, U of A’s College of Education and Health Professions has developed a sturdy track record in research initiatives and outreach efforts. Educational faculty in the Department of Curriculum & Instruction (CIED) are members of the Arkansas Professors of Educational Leadership (ArPEL). And U of A is a key member of the Education Renewal Zone, a Pre-K-16 initiative designed to help improve public school performance. Put it on your shortlist if you’re interested in high-poverty and rural schools.
Online Ed.S. Overview
The cohort-based Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership is designed to lead to district-level licensure; U of A has a 100% first-time pass rate on the School Superintendent Assessment (SSA) exam. Out-of-state candidates may be able to apply, but it pays to check with the Ed.S. coordinator and your Department of Education. All applicants must have a master’s degree in an education-related field and building-level certification.
We give it a thumbs-up for including the personal touch—Ed.S. students meet in synchronous, real-time sessions on Wednesday evenings. We also like the fact that the curriculum features an action research project and a substantial 6-month internship under the guidance of a mentor. All students are required to present a Culminating Portfolio. Not sounding like quite the right fit? You may wish to investigate the Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with 3 intensive weekend seminars on campus.
Note: U of A also offers an Online Ed.S. in Curriculum & Instruction, but it’s designed for Arkansas educators.
8 Old Dominion University
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership: Non-Licensure
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership: K-12 Licensure
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Optional for VA Educators (Principal)
Why Choose ODU’s Online Ed.S. Program?
One of ODU’s key selling points is the intimacy of the program—students in the cohort-based Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership participate in live online classes during weekday evenings. We should also point out that this degree lives in the Department of Educational Leadership & Workforce Development. That means that your PreK-12 faculty should be used to exchanging leadership ideas with peers in organizational development and higher education. For more on ODU’s strengths, pay a visit to the Center for Educational Partnerships. There’s a lot of work being done in both program design & evaluation.
Online Ed.S. Overview
In the Graduate Catalog, ODU states that the Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership is available in two tracks: non-licensure and K-12 licensure. Non-licensure candidates are expected to have a minimum 3.25 GPA on their master’s degree, but applicants with a slightly lower GPA can be considered for provisional admission. The K-12 licensure track is reserved for Virginia educators with a valid VA teaching license and at least 3 years of teaching experience.
The Graduate Catalog also lists the full curriculum for non-licensure students. You’ll notice that courses align with departmental strengths. For example, you’ll be expected to take classes in organizational theory, social justice, and leadership theory for educational improvement. We were pleased to see the inclusion of a course in Field Research in School Administration & Supervision, but we didn’t see any indication of a capstone project or final portfolio.
Note: ODU is one of only a few schools to have developed an executive-style Online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership.
9 Clemson University
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30-36
Length: 5 Semesters/2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Optional (Multiple Tracks)
Why Choose Clemson’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Serving rural students. Addressing poverty in schools. Improving science education. These are just a few areas where Clemson’s College of Education and its Department of Educational & Organizational Leadership Development (EOLD) are making inroads in South Carolina. We love the coaching & leadership work being done within the LEADERS Center of Excellence and we were impressed by the breadth of the College’s centers & institutes and the range of action research projects. Use the faculty directory to learn more about the interests of EOLD professors.
Online Ed.S. Overview
Clemson’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership is that rare beast—an Education Specialist program that can be customized to fit almost any goal! It’s available in non-licensure, building-level, and district-level licensure tracks for both in-state and out-of-state educators. Check the Admission Requirements and Program Requirements sections to decide on your path. All candidates are expected to have a minimum 3.0 GPA, at least 2 years of teaching experience, and have access to an educational setting.
As we mentioned, Clemson is particularly interested in the effects of rurality, poverty, and race. For example, you’ll notice that the curriculum for district-level candidates includes a course in the Politics of Education, as well as mandatory field-based learning experiences. Anyone enrolled in a licensure track will be expected to complete internships. Non-licensure students can opt to take electives instead. Courses are asynchronous, which means you’ll study on your own time.
Note: Clemson offers an Online Ed.D. in Education Systems Improvement Science to candidates who have an Ed.S. degree.
10 University of Southern Mississippi
Delivery: 100% Online or Hybrid
Credits: 33
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Principal
Why Choose USM’s Online Ed.S. Program?
USM’s School of Education is doing some fascinating PreK-12 work in holistic education & behavioral interventions. Take a look at the Center for Research to Practice in Education (CRPE) and its grant-funded Realizing Excellence for All Children in Mississippi (REACH MS) program for more on these efforts. Mississippi is one of the poorest states in the nation, so it’s encouraging to see that the School is also engaged in AmeriCorps’s America Reads – Mississippi (ARM) program and STEM initiatives.
Online Ed.S. Overview
This Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration P-12 meets Mississippi state standards for advanced licensure as a P-12 administrator. USM recommends that out-of-state candidates read the section on Professional Licensure and then contact their state licensing board to ask about reciprocity. All applicants must have at least 3 years of PreK-12 teaching experience and hold a current educator license. Teachers from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
A full list of Ed.S. courses can be found in the Graduate Bulletin. The core of the program focuses on building-level concerns, including public school finance, facilities, and law. But there are plenty of chances for field work. To satisfy licensure requirements, the curriculum features 2 practicums in Educational Administration and Supervision. Students are expected to identify a mentor (Principal or Assistant Principal) for these experiences. You’ll even have the chance to take courses in educational research & statistics.
Note: USM also offers an Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration P-12 that is backed by its membership in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). Many Ed.S. courses feature in this degree.
11 Ball State University
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 63 (30-33 with Master’s)
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Superintendent
Why Choose Ball State’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Ball State’s Department of Educational Leadership isn’t resting on its laurels! It sponsors two superintendent study councils, offers a free service for Indiana schools seeking superintendents, and prepares more Indiana school administrators than any other university in the state. Have a look at the faculty bios and then check out the research centers within the Teachers College. Here you’ll find an intriguing interdisciplinary training initiative for K-12 schools—the Center for School Innovation—and the College’s very own K-12 laboratory school.
Online Ed.S. Overview
Although the Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration and Supervision is designed to satisfy superintendent licensure requirements in Indiana, it may suit the needs of out-of-state students. According to Ball State’s State Authorization Map, the Ed.S. is fully authorized in all states and territories. Candidates are expected to have a minimum 3.2 GPA on their master’s degree. View the curriculum in the Graduate Catalog and talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator to find out how many of your master’s credits could be transferred.
As you might expect with a district-level program, the degree is packed with credits in fiscal management, school law, and schools buildings & grounds. You’ll be required to complete a Superintendent Internship and a capstone project, as well as a seminar in educational leadership. There’s even a class in public relations. Courses are asynchronous, which means you can learn on your own time.
Note: Ed.S. credits can be counted towards Ball State’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Supervision.
12 University of South Dakota
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration and Leadership: School District Superintendent
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration and Leadership: Pre-K-12 Principal
Delivery: 100% Online or Hybrid
Credits: 32
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Superintendent or Principal
Why Choose USD’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Personal attention. USD’s Division of Educational Leadership try to ensure that every student has an engaging experience. Class sizes are kept small and faculty teach in both the online and on-campus programs. The School of Education isn’t big enough to fund major research centers, but it was the first in the state to implement a year-long student teaching residency model and it provides camps & literacy services to local school districts.
Online Ed.S. Overview
For this profile, we’re focusing on the Online Ed.S. in Educational Administration and Leadership: School District Superintendent. (USD also offers an Pre-K-12 Principal program for building-level candidates.) All candidates are expected to have a graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better and at least 3 years of teaching experience in a PreK-12 setting. Coming from out-of-state? Examine the program listing in the Graduate Catalog and review the State Licensure Map. USD will consider non-residents, but it notes that “there may be some restrictions on your ability to engage in supervised field study outside of South Dakota.”
The curriculum for the School District Superintendent program is outlined in the Graduate Catalog. In addition to the usual run of district-level credits, including a mandatory internship, we were pleased to see that USD has included a course in action research. Talk to the Ed.S. program coordinator about the possibility of exploring indigenous and rural education—the university supports an Institute for American Indian Studies. Even if you’re not from South Dakota, you may wish to take the 500-level course in Indian Education.
Note: USD offers an Online Ed.D. in Pre-K-12 Educational Leadership for non-licensure students, as well as on-campus Ed.D. programs at the building-level and district-level.
13 University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Online Ed.S. in Administration, Planning and Policy: Non-Licensure
- Online Ed.S. in Administration, Planning and Policy: Licensure Track
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 33
Length: 1-2 Years
CAEP-Accredited: No
Licensure Track: Optional for MA Educators (Principal)
Why Choose UMass Lowell’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Looking for intensive training in PreK-12 administration? Currently employed in a school system? UMass Lowell’s Online Ed.S. in Administration, Planning and Policy could be just the ticket. The School of Education funds a School Leadership Institute for school districts in the Greater Merrimack Valley and it’s been a long-time proponent of hands-on learning initiatives through the Tsongas Industrial History Center. The Center has even been developing lessons & field trips around big picture topics such as climate change, civics education, and social justice.
Online Ed.S. Overview
The Online Ed.S. in Administration, Planning and Policy is designed for working educators. Candidates must have at least 3 years of full-time experience in a K-12 school or a related setting and provide proof of professional teaching status. You’ll also be expected to have a minimum 3.0 GPA from your master’s degree. Looking for building-level certification in Massachusetts? UMass Lowell also offers a separate MA Principal Licensure Track for in-state students.
All in all, the non-licensure track is an affordable and no-nonsense degree with an intriguing curriculum. We love the inclusion of field work, principalship courses, and the completion of an academic paper in the Ed.S. Seminar. You can even choose 2 electives. Even though this Ed.S. available for full-time study (e.g. 4 semesters/9 credits per semester), you may wish to stretch it out to 6 or 11 semesters if you’re working.
Note: UMass Lowell has an Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Schooling, but there aren’t many credit crossovers between the Ed.S. and the Ed.D.
14 Northwest Missouri State University
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership – Generalist
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership – K-12
- Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership – Superintendent
Delivery: 100% Online
Credits: 30
Length: 12 Months or More
CAEP-Accredited: No
Licensure Track: Optional for MO Educators (Principal or Superintendent)
Why Choose Northwest’s Online Ed.S. Program?
Price is a big factor here—Northwest offers some of the lowest tuition prices for an Education Specialist degree. But we should also point out that the School of Education has been around for more than 100 years and it runs its own K-6 laboratory school on campus grounds. Although Northwest is not CAEP-accredited, it has received accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Plus it’s recognized by the Missouri DESE.
Online Ed.S. Overview
Applying for the Generalist/Non-Licensure track is relatively straightforward. Candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on their master’s degree and documentation of a valid state teacher certificate OR a score of 3.75 or higher on the analytical writing measure of the GRE OR National Board Certification OR completion of the Departmental Entrance Exam (DAE). Applicants to the K-12 (Principal) and Superintendent tracks should visit the program links for more details.
The best part about the Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership – Generalist program is its flexibility. You only have to take 4 core courses/12 credit hours in district-level subjects. The remaining 18 credit hours will be electives. That means you can choose to focus on almost any topic of interest, including curriculum design, technology, literacy, and/or leadership. This is a program for folks who don’t like practicums—there is no option to complete an internship or capstone project.
Note: Northwest has yet to develop an Online Ed.D. program.
15 Lincoln Memorial University
Delivery: 100% Online or Hybrid
Credits: 30
Length: 1 Year
CAEP-Accredited: Yes
Licensure Track: Non-Licensure
Why Choose LMU’s Online Ed.S. Program?
LMU’s Carter and Moyers School of Education is located in the Appalachian region, so we’re not surprised to find that a number of its faculty have a vested interest in rural schools & education. It’s been the recipient of Tennessee Teacher Apprenticeship funds for training new teachers and it has gradually been stretching its wings to offer more distance learning programs. Coursework for the online version of the Ed.S. is asynchronous, so you can learn on your own time.
Online Ed.S. Overview
LMU’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure) program is open to candidates with a master’s degree, but no GPA is specified in the Admissions section or the Information Packet. In the Graduate Catalog, LMU states that it would work well for out-of-state candidates, those with existing Tennessee licensure, and folks looking to learn about innovative practices in strategic educational improvement.
We made a special case for including LMU in our rankings. That’s because the curriculum features one course in Tennessee Finance and Human Resources. If you live out of state and don’t want to sit through this class, ask if you can swap it for an elective. Otherwise, it’s a great mix of instructional leadership courses and practical concerns (e.g. federal educational law). You’ll receive training in action research and create an electronic capstone portfolio.
Note: LMU also offers an Online Ed.S. in Instructional Leadership that leads to Initial TN Leadership Licensure and an Online Ed.S. in Instructional Practice (Non-Licensure). The Ed.D. is delivered on-campus.
Best Online Ed.S. Rankings Continued: #16–25
| School | Program | Licensure Track | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16. | National Louis University (IL)* | Online Ed.S. in Strategic Educational Leadership | Non-Licensure | 1-2 Years |
| 17. | Hamline University (MN) | Online Ed.S. in Leadership for Equitable Innovation and Transformation | Optional (Principal or Superintendent or Special Education Director) | 24 Months |
| 18. | Indiana Wesleyan University (IN)* | Online Ed.S. in Education Leadership | Non-Licensure | 22 Months |
| 19. | Northwest Nazarene University (ID)* | Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership: Superintendent | Superintendent | 22 Months |
| 20. | Liberty University (VA)* | Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership | Non-Licensure | 1-2 Years |
| 21. | Trevecca Nazarene University (TN)* | Online Ed.S. in Accountability and Instructional Leadership | Instructional Leadership | 15-16 Months |
| 22. | Pittsburg State University (KS)* | Online Ed.S. in Advanced Studies in Leadership with General School Administration Emphasis | Superintendent | 1-2 Years |
| 23. | Arkansas State University (AR)* | Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Superintendency | Superintendent | 18 Months |
| 24. | University of Central Arkansas (AR)* | Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership | Superintendent or Principal | 1-2 Years |
| 25. | Seton Hall University (NJ)* | Online Ed.S. in Education Leadership, Management and Policy | Optional (School Administrator) | 20 Months |
* Indicates CAEP-Accredited
How to Pick the Best Online Ed.S. Program
Immediate Job Needs
An Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree is one of those quirky “in-between” qualifications that can be useful for a variety of reasons. You may decide to earn one in order to:
- Become an Expert in Your School/District: Take advantage of the practical courses & embedded field work to deepen your expertise in a realm of education (e.g. administration, curriculum development, instructional technology, etc.).
- Earn Licensure or Certification: An Ed.S. can often be used to fulfill certification, licensure, or endorsement requirements established by your State Education Agency (SEA)/Department of Education. Use this NCES tool to find the website link for the Department of Education in your state.
- Qualify for a Salary Increase: Some states—especially in the Southeast and Midwest—are willing to reward educators who pursue a “sixth year” degree (e.g. North Carolina Department of Public Instruction: Compensation for Public School Employees). That’s why you’ll frequently see programs from schools in Missouri, Arkansas, Florida, Virginia, and Tennessee appearing in our rankings.
Long-Term Career Goals
We’re fans of higher education, but only for the right reasons and at the right price! In the case of sixth-year degrees like the Ed.S., it pays to think about the long game. For example, you may wish to consider how you could use the Ed.S. to:
- Earn a Doctorate: A number of universities will allow you to transfer all of your Ed.S. credits directly into an Ed.D. If this is the case, they sometimes call the Ed.S. a “stackable credential.” It’s always worth leaving the door open to doctoral studies, especially in educational leadership. You’ll usually only have to complete research courses and a dissertation or a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) to finish off the doctorate. That’s why we’ve highlighted Ed.D. pathways in our rankings.
- Save Money on the Ed.D.: You’ll have to break out your tuition spreadsheets, but it’s possible that earning an Ed.S. and an All-But-Dissertation (ABD) Ed.D. separately may be cheaper than skipping the Ed.S. and going straight to the Ed.D. This will depend on a lot of factors—including whether you can transfer all of your Ed.S. credits to another university’s Ed.D. program—so do the math first. This also gives you the option to stop at the Ed.S. if you’re not enjoying your studies.
- Build Your Reputation: This plus doesn’t get talked about as much, but enrolling in a short Ed.S. program still gives you full access to the School of Education’s faculty, research institutes, career resources, and networking events. For instance, you might want to collaborate with a university-affiliated school district on your field work. Or assist faculty on their urban education initiative. Or use your capstone to get published in an academic journal. Seize every opportunity!
Departmental Strengths & Faculty Interests
Let’s say you’ve assembled a shortlist of Ed.S. programs from our online Ed.S. rankings and your geographic area. All of the prices look reasonable, but you feel like the local options don’t provide enough depth in your areas of interest (e.g. middle school leadership, rural schools, behavioral interventions, equity, etc.). This is when the strengths of the Department of Educational Leadership and School of Education could really sway your choice!
- Departments Are Unique: Research universities & flagship campuses usually have the money to fund multiple departments (e.g. Educational Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction, PreK-12 Teaching, etc.). We’ve provided you with a link to the Department of Educational Leadership in our rankings so you can read up on its goals, research projects, and faculty.
- Location Dictates Focus: For example, schools in places like Idaho or the Dakotas often have a stake in Indigenous/Native American education. Schools in Mississippi and Appalachia may have a long track record in rural initiatives. Schools in DC could have a stake in federal education policy. Use their location to your advantage.
- Faculty Often Influence the Curriculum: The best Ed.S. programs are taught by educators who are bringing their expertise & research into the coursework. If you have the option to take electives or tackle a capstone project, find out what your professors are passionate about. Does their work align with your interests?
Program Focus & Curriculum
Once you know about the Department, it’s worth taking a minute to read the course descriptions in the curriculum. We’ve provided curriculum links in our rankings, but you should also be able to find the degree and a detailed list of courses in the university’s Graduate Catalog or Bulletin.
- Online Ed.S. Coursework Varies From School to School: Although there will be some consistency to coursework in licensure programs (e.g. Superintendency), we’re still seeing a huge amount of variation in Ed.S. curricula. At one school, you might be required to take mandatory credits in research, statistics, and organizational theory. At another, over half of your Ed.S. program may involve electives and field work. The balance between theory and practice can differ dramatically!
- Some Ed.S. Programs Are Designed for Ed.D. Entry (Others Are Not): For instance, Indiana University’s Online Ed.S. in Educational Leadership includes a dissertation proposal or research seminar as part of the Ed.S. curriculum. Taking this course doesn’t mean you have to earn an education doctorate, but it will give you a head-start. Ask the program coordinator if the Ed.S. is meant to stand alone or can be used as prep for an Ed.D.
- State Requirements Will Affect Licensure Programs: This point won’t matter much if you’re an in-state student, but may be important if you’re an out-of-state student. If your state’s Department of Education is willing to consider out-of-state Ed.S. programs for licensure, make sure that the curriculum has all the elements required (e.g. internship) and doesn’t feature coursework that’s only relevant to in-state students. For instance, we excluded a number of online Ed.S. programs in Michigan that had courses in Michigan education law.
- Field Work & Internships Are Always Helpful: A strong Ed.S. will give you a chance to get stuck in and apply what you’re learning in a real-world setting. Even if you’re not interested in licensure, you still have the option to choose a non-licensure program that includes active elements like practicums and field experiences.
- Ed.S. Deliverables Look Good on a Résumé: When we say deliverables, we’re talking about features like capstone/action research projects, online portfolios, and academic papers that could be submitted to journals. Does your program feature any of these? Ask the Ed.S. program coordinator if you can see examples from recent graduates.
Practical Considerations
It’s lovely to browse through online Ed.S. offerings and envision hours of experimenting with new ideas & achieving district-wide changes. But we realize you may also be thinking about much more pragmatic concerns! Here’s what might tip the balance toward one degree in our rankings:
- Format: Does your online Education Specialist program allow you to study on your own time (e.g. asynchronously) or will you be expected to attend live online classes on certain nights (e.g. synchronously)? Will you be studying in a cohort of fellow students and meeting with them regularly? Or would you prefer to study on your own, with minimal interactions? Choose the format that suits you best.
- Admission Requirements: Don’t take the stated minimum GPA as the final word—many schools are willing to consider candidates with lower GPAs for provisional admission. However, in order to be allowed to continue, you may be asked to take the GRE, submit extra academic & professional materials, and/or earn a minimum GPA on the first few courses of your Ed.S. program.
- Field Work & Internships: Almost every online Ed.S. program will allow you to complete field work, practicums, and internships in your local area. Having said that, you could be required to secure your own (approved) mentor for the internship. Anyone applying to an out-of-state program should discuss these elements with the Ed.S. program coordinator.
- Completion Time: Opt for a standard, part-time schedule (e.g. 2 courses per semester) and you’ll usually be able to finish an online Ed.S. in 5 semesters/20 months, including the summer. But you may wish to speed this up (e.g. 3-4 courses per semester/1 year) or slow it down. Just be sure that the Ed.S. isn’t operating on a fixed schedule.
- Price: Ed.S. program prices can fluctuate wildly between states, so use the tuition links in our rankings to nail down the out-of-state price for your chosen programs and then find out how much an in-state degree would cost. Some universities will offer special tuition discounts & scholarships to Ed.S. students from local school districts.
As always, we recommend you talk to your mentors, recent Ed.S. graduates, and employer about your plans before making any decision. They may have insider knowledge on unusual Ed.S. programs that would fit your needs to a tee!
What to Know About Online Ed.S. Programs with Licensure Tracks
The Purpose of Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Licensure Programs
A number of online Ed.S. programs in our rankings are designed to fulfill state requirements for certification, licensure, or endorsement.
- For these rankings, we’ve focused on programs that lead to licensure in educational leadership roles (e.g. Superintendent, Principal, Teacher Leader, etc.).
- However, some of these schools will also offer online Ed.S. programs with licensure tracks in other specialist areas (e.g. Curriculum Director, Instructional Technologist, etc.). Use the link to the Alternative Online Ed.S. Programs to explore more options!
Rules for certification and licensure are set by a State Education Agency (SEA)/Department of Education.
- This NCES tool can help you find the website link for your state’s Department of Education.
- Your Department of Education’s website will publish the rules & requirements for licensure or certification (e.g. Kansas State’s Department of Education School Leadership License Requirements).
- The website should also have a list of approved Ed.S. programs within your state!
Many students who are seeking licensure or certification end up enrolling in a state-approved Ed.S. program (online, hybrid, or on-campus) within their local area. It’s the simplest way to ensure that Ed.S. coursework meets all of the Department of Education’s requirements.
Out-of-State Online Ed.S. Programs & Licensure Requirements
But let’s say that you love the look of an out-of-state online Ed.S. program in our rankings. It may be possible to use this qualification for licensure or certification as long as:
- It fulfills all the requirements set out by your state’s Department of Education.
- The university is willing to offer the program to students in your state.
Licensure is a murky area, so before you enroll in a program, you should:
1. Contact your state’s Department of Education and double-check the program will be eligible.
For example, some Departments may insist that the university has regional accreditation and/or CAEP accreditation before they even consider an out-of-state program. (All of the programs in our rankings come from regionally accredited universities; we’ve highlighted any with CAEP accreditation.) Other Departments may want assurances that the coursework includes all of the approved in-person elements (e.g. school district internship).
2. Contact the Ed.S. program coordinator and double-check that they are happy to consider you as a licensure candidate.
If we could find one, we’ve provided you with a link to the school’s state authorization page; this has details on which states the program is approved for. But it’s always best to speak to someone directly. You’ll need to know if the program has any in-state elements that would make it unsuitable for out-of-state students. We also recommend you ask the program coordinator for pass rates on national licensure exams (e.g. SSA).