Become a Principal or Director of Special Education

Education Specialist Degree and Licensure

New students can take advantage of a new 35% tuition savings!

Earn your license to become a principal or a director of special education.

Our Education Specialist (EdS) degree is designed for individuals with a master's degree who are pursuing an administrative license to become a Principal or Director of Special Education. The combined degree and licensure preparation provides a strong foundation and understanding of leadership in K-12 education.

The skills you acquire through the EdS degree will help you analyze and implement sound administrative policies, create successful strategies for change, and put into service leading practices for the day-to-day needs of your schools.

All classes are online. Earn your degree and licensure in 16 months.

Why St. Thomas?

Our fully online curriculum is designed for your busy schedule. Additionally, all new students are eligible for a 35% tuition savings throughout the year. Our new rolling-start option gives you the control over when you pursue your next step in education.

Our curriculum is differentiated for public, Catholic, and charter schools. You will learn in a cohort with fellow educators giving you an instant network of local professionals to rely on and reach out to upon earning your degree.

More Accessible, More Flexible

Excellence in School Leadership Fund - 35% savings

All new students enrolling in the EdS with administrative licensure program (spring 2026 and summer 2026 terms) will be eligible for financial support through the School of Education’s new Excellence in School Leadership Fund.

This new fund was established to support and elevate school leaders in K-12 schools. As a result of our investment in administrative leaders, most students seeking their first EdS degree with administrative licensure can complete the program at a fraction of the typical tuition cost.

Apply today and start in the summer, fall or spring!

A Proud Tommie

Dr. Latanya Daniels ’01 MA, ’04 EdS, ’19 EdD is a rock star in the world of education. Before taking on her current role as assistant superintendent at Richfield Public Schools, Daniels was blazing a trail as principal of Patrick Henry High School in north Minneapolis. She helped the school earn the 2015 ranking by U.S. News & World Report of third best high school in Minnesota.

Throughout her years as a student in the School of Education where she has earned three degrees, professors encouraged Daniels to define her purpose and become a strong leader. Her persistence, perseverance, and willingness to self-reflect have turned Daniels into a powerhouse educator who doesn’t shy away from shaking things up if it means helping students shine.

FAQs

Depending on when you start (summer, fall or spring), students typically complete this program in New cohorts begin each fall. The program can be completed in 16 months. The suggested course sequence for each term can be viewed here.

All courses are online. This flexible pathway to leadership is designed for busy professionals like you.

All new students enrolling in the EdS with administrative licensure program will be eligible for financial support through the School of Education’s new Excellence in School Leadership Fund.

This exclusive opportunity makes high-quality graduate education more accessible, allowing you to develop the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful change in schools and communities. Simply submit your St. Thomas application to determine your eligibility!