Ed.S. with Administrative or Superintendent Licensure

What You'll Learn

Drake University’s Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) program positions practicing educators to build a foundation for leadership success. Our curriculum is designed for educators who have a master’s degree, so you can access an advanced level of professional competence for new roles and greater influence.

Tailor your career path with three options. Choose an Ed.S. with principal licensure for school-level roles, with a practical focus on creating and managing effective learning environments and cultures. Learn the dynamics of large, complex organizations to spearhead district-wide systemic change in the superintendent track. Or, select the content-based emphasis to pursue a specialized focus in one of several strategic areas.

Whichever path you choose, you’ll benefit from hybrid classes, integrated hands-on learning, and a supportive community of colleagues and professors as you get ready to assume more responsibility and grow your impact.

About the Specialist in Education Program at Drake

• Hands-on, project based courses connect classroom concepts to your professional world.
• A cohort model facilitates collaboration between students and faculty, resulting in a network ready to give advice and feedback now and in the future.
• Each student is paired with a practicing administrator, who serves as a mentor throughout the program.
• Qualify for principal or superintendent licensure in Iowa and access a range of leadership roles, from curriculum director to district administration.
• Nearly 70 percent of school districts in Iowa have at least one administrator who holds a Drake degree.

Program Facts

• Hybrid course format
• Cohorts begin every fall
• 45 total credits