Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration)
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program is a comprehensive educational specialist solution designed to equip aspiring superintendents with the advanced skills and knowledge required for leadership positions in school districts. Our program focuses on developing leadership skills in educational administration to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students.
Students who complete the Ed.S. in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) at Fort Hays State University fulfill the licensure requirements necessary to become a school district superintendent. Additionally, through a collaborative agreement with Kansas State University, students may transfer 18 credit hours into select doctoral programs, offering a seamless transition for those pursuing a terminal degree.
Why pursue an Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) at Fort Hays State University?
For those aspiring to make a significant impact as a superintendent in a school district, the Ed.S. in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) offers a unique and accredited pathway to leadership.
What distinguishes this program is its flexibility and accessibility. Recognizing that many future superintendents have demanding professional responsibilities, the program is delivered entirely online. This format allows students to advance their education and career goals without interrupting their current roles, making it an ideal choice for working professionals seeking to lead in educational administration.
Who is this program for?
Students who enroll in the Ed.S. in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program take a key step toward becoming educational leaders capable of driving change, improving student outcomes, and making a lasting impact within their school districts.
- Individuals who aim to become educational leaders at the district level, steering school districts toward success.
- Principals, assistant principals, or other school administrators seeking to transition to district-level leadership positions.
- Individuals interested in meeting state licensure requirements to become superintendents and lead school districts effectively.
- Graduates interested in meeting state licensure requirements to become superintendents and lead school districts effectively.
Real-World Applications
The Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in high-level administrative roles. With a strong emphasis on educational leadership, the program prepares individuals to navigate the challenges and responsibilities of effectively leading a school district. Through a combination of academic study and real-world experience, students enhance their ability to manage school operations and drive meaningful educational outcomes.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
At FHSU, we align with state licensure requirements for school district leadership, preparing you to step into the role of a superintendent with confidence. One of the ways we ensure that our curriculum stays current and relevant is by regularly updating our coursework based on national and state standards.
Practical Activities
The program consists of practical courses like EDL 979, which provides students with interactive, real-world experience in district leadership. Alongside this, APS 933, Foundations of Research, equips participants with the essential skills for conducting informed research.
What You’ll Learn:
- Become a capable and visionary school leader
- Enhance your communication and leadership abilities
- Learn effective strategies for educational policymaking
- Gain expertise in budgeting
- Qualify to serve as a superintendent
How You’ll Learn:
- Online courses for flexible learning
- Complete your degree at your own pace
- Collaborative opportunity with Kansas State University
- Accredited program, meeting licensure requirements
- Fast-track your education administration career in 1-2 years
The program’s core curriculum encompasses a comprehensive selection of courses designed to provide a strong foundation. For those aspiring to pursue a doctoral degree, a collaborative agreement with Kansas State University enables the transfer of 18 credit hours into their program.
Spanning 30 credit hours, the coursework addresses key areas such as financial management, district facilities, and emerging trends in educational administration. Participants gain expertise in cultivating environments that promote teacher growth and optimize student achievement—essential competencies for future superintendents.
EDL 955: District Facilities
This course equips future district administrators with essential skills for planning and operating educational facilities, covering bond elections, transportation, technology infrastructure, maintenance, safety, and staff management.
EDL 954: District Finance
This course focuses on developing skills for managing the fiscal responsibilities of a school superintendent in public education. It covers state and local financial responsibilities, revenue sources, and other aspects related to financing public school education at the district level.
EDL 901: District Technology Operations and Management
This course prepares students for district-level roles in preK-12 schools, focusing on the Future Ready Technology Leaders Framework and ISTE Standards, with an emphasis on equity advocacy, visionary planning, and connected learning.
Discover the full Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
For students aspiring to make a profound impact on the education landscape, this program equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate diverse career prospects upon graduation.
Superintendent
As the driving force behind school districts, superintendents steer educational institutions toward the best student outcomes. They are responsible for creating an environment where teachers can learn and thrive, in addition to overseeing budgeting and policymaking.
Assistant/Associate Superintendent
These positions support the superintendent's leadership responsibilities and often focus on specific areas, such as curriculum development or school operations.
Special Education Leadership Positions
Whether overseeing special education programs, ensuring compliance with regulations, or advocating for students with special needs, the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) supplies them with the necessary skills and knowledge.
District-Level Special Education Leadership
Prospective students seeking special education leadership positions in Kansas must obtain the superintendent's endorsement. This opens doors to roles where they can influence and shape special education policies and practices at the district level.
As school superintendents play a pivotal role in ensuring the best outcomes for students, the admission requirements for this program are designed to train capable and visionary leaders. Applicants from states outside of Kansas should also verify licensure requirements within their respective states, while those seeking district-level special education leadership positions must obtain the superintendent's endorsement.
Master's Degree
To be considered for the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program, applicants must hold a master's degree. This foundational educational level prepares them for the advanced coursework and leadership responsibilities that come with being a superintendent of a school district.
Minimum 3.25 Cumulative GPA in Graduate Coursework
Success in educational leadership programs demands a strong academic background. Applicants should have maintained a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 in their previous graduate coursework to demonstrate their commitment to distinction in educational administration.
Building Administration License
In addition to a master's degree, prospective students are required to possess a Building Administration License. This license signifies your readiness to take on administrative roles within school districts, a crucial aspect of the superintendent's position.
General FHSU Graduate School Requirements
Meeting the general admission requirements of Fort Hays State University's Graduate School is essential. It ensures that applicants fulfill the program-specific prerequisites and meet FHSU’s academic standards, making them eligible for the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) enrollment.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
For those considering the Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program at Fort Hays State University, exploring related programs can further enhance their educational and leadership development. These programs provide specialized tracks that align with a variety of career aspirations within educational leadership.
- M.S. in Education Administration
- Endorsement in Building Leadership (Principal) (Graduate Non-Degree)
- Endorsement in District Leadership (Superintendent) (Graduate Non-Degree)
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Business Education and Workforce Leadership)
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation & Leadership)
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Leadership in Reading)
A district superintendent is the top executive and educational leader overseeing and managing an entire school district. This role involves providing leadership, vision, and direction to ensure the effective operation and improvement of all schools within the community.
To become a superintendent of a school district, you can pursue an Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration). This program helps you satisfy state licensure requirements for school district leadership, which is typically a prerequisite for the role of superintendent.
Superintendents are responsible for creating environments where teachers can learn and thrive, managing budgets, and making policy decisions that impact the district's educational programs and operations.
A school district superintendent is responsible for various tasks. A school district superintendent holds a multifaceted role that encompasses providing leadership and direction to the district, ensuring the success and well-being of students, fostering teacher development, and more.
The Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration) program at Fort Hays State University typically offers flexible scheduling, and students can often complete the program within 1-2 years. Courses are offered in 4, 8, and 16-week formats, providing options for different learning preferences and schedules.
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.
- CACREP Accreditation:
The Department of Advanced Education Programs holds Advanced-Level Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). See the Fort Hays State University CAEP Accredited Provider page for details.
Advanced-Level Accreditation is provided at the post-baccalaureate or graduate levels leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement. Advanced-Level Programs are designed to develop P-12 teachers who have already completed an initial-licensure program, currently licensed administrators, or other certified (or similar state language) school professionals for employment in P-12 schools/districts. CAEP's Advanced-Level accreditation does not include any advanced-level program not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts; any advanced-level non-licensure programs, including those specific to content areas; or educational leadership programs not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts.
- Endorsement
- Education Specialist
- Online
