
Online Education Specialist Degrees (EdS)
journey today.

This program aims to prepare aspiring leaders in the education field to become well-versed in their sector of education, whether that be through influencing K-12 instruction or improving leadership at that level.
Specific courses may vary slightly depending on your area of focus, but you can expect to cover topics such as:
Educational policy development
Strategic planning in education
Leadership theories and models
Professional learning communities
Effective teaching strategies and trends
Global politics of education
If you’re looking to potentially advance your career in education, you likely have many questions. Review some commonly asked questions and answers to gain more insight into earning your degree.
What is an EdS degree?
What is the difference between an EdS vs. PhD?
How long does it take to get an EdS degree?
Is an education specialist degree worth it?

The EdS programs at GCU are designed for current educators who are looking to gain specialized knowledge in their field.
As a doctoral student, you will have access to various resources and supportive, knowledgeable faculty that will be there alongside you in your journey to earning your EdS.
Browse through these links to explore some of the resources offered.
We offer two different paths for those looking to earn an Ed specialist degree. You can choose to take specialty coursework focused on analyzing and developing K-12 leadership or aim to improve student outcomes by taking a deep dive into teaching and learning.

The Education Specialist in K-12 Leadership helps active teachers enhance their knowledge in education policy development, staffing and organizational leadership while further developing instructional skills. An intensive study of educational policy analysis and leadership research offers the opportunity to positively influence others and improve learning in school systems.

Our EdS option focuses on teaching and learning to help K-12 educators develop deep knowledge of different models and theories of teaching to improve student outcomes in educational communities. Through the study and implementation of research-based strategies and emerging trends in education, EdS students will have the opportunity to promote successful student learning in diverse classrooms.
Earning an EdS gives educators the opportunity to set themselves up for potential advancement or in their careers. Graduates may choose to pursue high-level positions in education, using their advanced knowledge of K-12 instruction, leadership and development to influence others and the quality of learning throughout schools. With collaboration, research and leadership skills, online education specialist degree graduates can be equipped to make a difference as leaders in their teaching community.
Earn Your Degree From an Accredited University
Graduate Admission Requirements

Education specialist graduates strive to make a difference in education by contributing their knowledge to the improvement of instruction, leadership and student learning. It’s important to review your state’s teaching requirements when choosing to pursue any postsecondary teaching position.
Graduates of an EdS program may go on to explore various career opportunities, such as:
Postsecondary education teachers
Elementary, middle and secondary teachers
Education administrators
If you’re an active teacher looking to positively affect the future of learning, an EdS degree may be the right choice for you. We offer specialist degrees in education to equip you with knowledge in educational leadership, help you acquire curriculum development expertise, and teach you to develop school improvement plans so you can gain a deeper understanding of how to make an impact in the education field. Through exploring theories, models and policies, you will have the opportunity to become a thoughtful leader in education.
