An educational specialist degree in educational psychology allows for employment in the education field as a school psychologist. Coursework is provided in educational psychology and complementary disciplines with an emphasis on the link between theory, research and practice. The University of Wisconsin Ed.S program, for example, requires a minimum of 60 graduate credits to be earned after a bachelor's degree. A degree in psychology, special education or a closely related field is also a prerequisite for admission to the program.
Students who wish to prepare for leadership roles in administration, such as becoming an elementary or secondary school principal or superintendent, will need to earn an education specialist degree in school administration. This program provides students with the skills necessary to become a more effective teacher, administrator or professional service leader in their school system. Indiana State University, for one example, requires students hold a master's degree, have graduate work experience, a minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 2.5, a graduate GPA of 3.25 and three letters of recommendation to be considered for the program.
The education specialist degree in science education prepares students already working in the field of education to achieve status as a master teacher, department head or science supervisor. As one example, the University of Georgia requires for admittance, previous completion of a master's degree from an accredited institution, T-5 certification in science, a cumulative GPA of 3.3 in all graduate work and a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) combined score of 900 or above. This program accounts for 30 semester hours above and beyond the previous master's degree.
Individuals working in the educational technology field who wish to continue their education beyond a master's degree may choose to obtain an educational specialist degree in educational technology. This program will benefit those working in technology as a director, instructor, and curriculum developer or as a consultant in staying current with today's technology. The educational technology Ed.S. program carries a heavy emphasis on critical thinking and can help develop skills in instructional design and can facilitate learning in a technology environment. As one example, Walden University offers an online program for the educational technology Ed.S with an estimated completion period of 18 months.