Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership)
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) program prepares K-12 educators, higher education professionals, and community-based and private enterprise educators for educational leadership roles.
The program is designed to cultivate skills that foster innovation and promote a collaborative culture that is essential for leading a learning community. By completing the Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) program, individuals gain the expertise necessary to advance educational practices within their respective fields.
Why pursue an Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) at Fort Hays State University?
This comprehensive program equips graduates with the expertise to lead and inspire meaningful changes in schools, institutions, and communities. Participants develop a deep understanding of innovative educational practices, effective problem-solving methodologies, and the latest research in educational leadership.
Recognizing the needs of busy professionals, the program is offered entirely online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world at their own pace. With asynchronous course delivery, participants benefit from maximum flexibility and convenience, making it easier to balance academic pursuits with work and personal commitments.
Who is this program for?
Diverse in its appeal and impactful in its outcomes, the program serves a broad spectrum of aspiring leaders, offering numerous benefits and opportunities for professional growth. Regardless of background or current role, Fort Hays State University provides a tailored pathway for individuals to become catalysts for change in the education sector. Those who may find this program particularly beneficial include:
- Higher education professionals
- Current and aspiring educators
- Individuals seeking a leadership role in an educational setting
- Community-based and private enterprise educators
Real-World Applications
One of our most innovative approaches is our portfolio-based learning system. Students create a portfolio of leadership activities demonstrating their practical skills and competencies. The portfolio is a valuable tool for employers and helps students to showcase their abilities to potential employers.
Moreover, the capstone project in our program is a culminating experience that requires students to research and solve a local educational problem. An opportunity like this allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges and demonstrate their ability to lead and make a difference in their community.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University’s commitment to staying at the forefront of education is evident in its curriculum, which is thoughtfully designed to incorporate current best practices and emerging trends. This forward-thinking approach ensures that students receive relevant, research-based instruction that prepares them to lead effectively in today’s dynamic educational landscape.
Above classroom instruction, our program fosters an environment of active engagement and exploration. Students participate in various discussions and debates, allowing them to explore trending topics such as personalized learning, technology integration, and leadership development.
Practical Activities
The Leadership Portfolio in Education course requires students to create a leadership portfolio showcasing their educational skills and experiences. Students will work with their faculty advisor to develop their portfolios, which will include a variety of artifacts such as practical activities, reflection papers, and leadership tools.
The Foundations of Research course introduces students to the fundamentals of educational research. They will learn how to design, conduct, and analyze research studies. Additionally, we teach students how to write research papers and present their findings, focusing on solving real challenges with practical solutions.
What You’ll Learn:
- Innovation and collaboration to lead learning communities
- Strategies to solve current educational problems
- Curriculum development, assessment, and evaluation
- Strategic planning and needs assessment strategies
- Research methodology and presentation skills
How You’ll Learn:
- Asynchronous online courses for flexibility and convenience
- Project-based learning to gain leadership skills
- Capstone project to solve real-world educational problems
- Engage in practical activities to build a leadership portfolio
- Faculty guidance throughout the program
Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares aspiring leaders for innovative education services. The program's core courses are carefully crafted to provide a strong foundation in educational leadership, theoretically and practically. Students enrolled in the program will be introduced to a range of subjects, including but not limited to education policy, research, strategic leadership, and more.
APS 921: The Scholar Practitioner
This foundational course develops a broad knowledge base along with scholarly thinking, research, and writing skills essential for doctoral study. It explores the scholar-practitioner framework, including philosophical and ethical issues in education, while integrating theoretical knowledge with research and practice.
APS 947: Curriculum Innovation and Leadership
This course prepares students to lead research-informed curriculum development. The course emphasizes best practices in curriculum innovation. Students will also explore effective strategies for leading curricular changes and implementation.
APS 985: Leadership Portfolio in Education
This portfolio course helps students compile work that links leadership theory to practice, showcasing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward effective educational leadership. It serves as tangible evidence of their proficiency in leadership competencies.
Discover the full Education Specialist in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates can pursue various rewarding career paths tailored to their passions and expertise. The variety of jobs you can pursue is broad. Each of them offers avenues for personal growth, professional fulfillment, and positive societal impact.
Curriculum and Instruction Leadership
Curriculum and instruction leaders are responsible for developing and implementing high-quality curricula that meet the needs of all students. They work with teachers to create and implement effective instructional strategies and monitor student progress to ensure all students meet the learning standards.
Instructional Coaches
Instructional coaches work with teachers to help them improve their teaching practices. They provide feedback on lesson plans, observe teachers in the classroom, and offer suggestions for improvement. Coaches can also help teachers develop instructional strategies and implement new technology.
Corporate Trainers
Corporate trainers develop and deliver employee training programs. They work with businesses to identify training needs and design programs that address them. Corporate trainers must be able to understand the business world and translate complex concepts into easy-to-understand language.
Higher Education Faculty
Higher education faculty teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. The role includes developing and delivering courses, advising students, and participating in professional development activities. Higher education faculty must have a strong academic background and be able to communicate complex concepts clearly and engagingly.
Fort Hays State University recognizes that the path to educational innovation is enriched by diverse experiences and perspectives. As such, the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) program welcomes all qualified applicants who are committed to advancing leadership in education. To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Master's Degree
Prospective students must hold a master’s degree to be considered for admission into the program. This criterion ensures that applicants have a solid foundation in their respective fields and are ready to engage with advanced coursework and research.
Minimum GPA Requirement
Applicants must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 in their graduate coursework. The standard guarantees that students entering the program demonstrate academic abilities and are prepared for the curriculum.
Letters of Recommendation
As part of the application process, applicants must submit two letters of recommendation. These should be on official letterhead and include the author's signature. Recommendations provide insights into the applicant's professional background, character, and potential for success in the program.
Personal Statement
A compelling 1–2–page essay articulating professional aspirations and graduate school goals is required. The personal statement should highlight the applicant's passion, relevant experiences, and specific career objectives. It allows students to showcase their dedication to the field and readiness for graduate-level study.
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
Prospective students interested in the Ed.S. in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) program may also consider related graduate courses that align with their professional and academic goals. Fort Hays State University offers a diverse selection of programs designed to complement and expand the competencies developed within this specialization, including:
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Exceptional and Diverse Learners)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – STEM Education)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Science of Language and Literacy)
- M.S. in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
- M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling)
- M.S. in Instructional Technology
- M.S. in Psychology (School)
- M.S. in Special Education (Gifted)
Educational innovation involves introducing new ideas, methods, or technologies to improve the quality and effectiveness of education. It encompasses developing and implementing creative solutions to address challenges in teaching and learning, focusing on enhancing student outcomes and experiences.
Yes, our program can prepare you to teach in higher education.
It is a 30-credit program that can be completed in three to four semesters.
Yes, the Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Innovation and Leadership) is currently in demand. There is a growing need for educators who can lead and inspire change in schools, institutions, and communities.
Graduates can pursue various rewarding career paths, including a higher education faculty, Instructional coaches, curriculum directors, or other educational leadership positions. However, this degree does not lead to state licensure.
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.
- Education Specialist
- Online
