Educational Specialist in Leadership (superintendent)

Graduate
Online
30 hours
2 years

Education Specialist in Educational Leadership at Harding

The Educational Specialist degree is the second tier of the College’s educational leadership program, which grants the superintendent endorsement.

Why earn your Education Specialist in Educational Leadership from Harding?

Flexible Programs

Harding University is committed to educating, preparing and supporting teachers across the U.S. and worldwide. We offer degree programs through our campuses in Searcy and Northwest Arkansas as well as online and hybrid courses (combination of on-ground and online classes). Whether you want to strengthen your professional skills in the classroom by specializing in a particular content area or pursuing a leadership role, Harding Graduate Studies in Education offers a variety of degrees and endorsement programs to suit your educational goals.

Finley STEM Center

The goal of the Lewis "Tony" Finley STEM Center for Math and Science Education is to meet the needs of P-12 math and science teachers by offering materials that support mathematics and science education standards.

A wide range of math and science materials are available for checkout and classroom use. The Lewis "Tony" Finley STEM Center for Math & Science Education serves teachers by providing access to resources and materials and can offer professional development on those materials.

A Christian Perspective

Touching hearts and challenging minds through Christ by preparing professionals for Christian service to children, families and communities.

More Information

Accreditation

All programs are recognized and approved by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) and graduates who complete all requirements are eligible to receive a license from the state of Arkansas. This license will be recognized per reciprocal agreements with other states.

CMHC and MFC counseling programs are accredited by the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Endorsements and licensures

Programs of study include:

  • Curriculum and instruction administration endorsement
  • Dyslexia endorsement*
  • Early childhood/special education integrated birth-K endorsement*
  • Gifted and talented endorsement*
  • Principal endorsement
  • Reading endorsement
  • Special education administration endorsement
  • Special education K-6 and 7-12 resource endorsement*
  • Special education K-12 endorsement*
  • Superintendent endorsement
  • Teaching English as a second language endorsement

What can you do with a Education Specialist in Educational Leadership?

Superintendent

An Educational Specialist in Leadership is a critical credential for those aspiring to become superintendents providing the necessary skills and knowledge to oversee and lead entire school districts. This degree focuses on advanced topics such as strategic planning, district-wide policy development and effective resource management. Superintendents with an Ed.S. in Leadership are well-prepared to develop and implement district-wide initiatives that improve educational outcomes, manage complex budgets and foster collaboration among schools. Their training in educational law and ethics, combined with their ability to engage with various stakeholders, positions them to advocate effectively for their districts and drive systemic improvements.

Principal

Holding an Educational Specialist in Leadership significantly enhances a principal's ability to lead a school effectively. This advanced degree provides comprehensive training in school administration, instructional leadership and data-driven decision-making. Principals with an Ed.S. are equipped to develop strategic plans that align with district goals, manage school operations efficiently, and create a positive and inclusive school culture. They are also skilled in staff development, helping teachers improve their instructional practices and ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. This degree prepares principals to navigate the complexities of educational policies and lead their schools toward continuous improvement.

Special education K-12

An Educational Specialist in Leadership with a focus on special education prepares educators to take on advanced roles within the special education field in K-12 settings. This degree offers specialized training in the administration and supervision of special education programs, advanced instructional strategies, and legal and ethical issues in special education. Educators with an Ed.S. in Leadership can lead special education departments, develop and implement individualized education programs, and advocate for students with disabilities. Their expertise enables them to provide professional development for other educators, ensuring that all students receive the support and accommodations they need to succeed academically and socially.

The Cannon-Clary College of Education is committed to its mission of touching hearts, challenging minds and preparing professionals for Christian service. Our priority is helping students achieve career goals — and even more — their life goals through teaching, leading and creating the foundation needed to make a difference in people's lives.
Raymond "Donny" Lee, Ed.D.

Dean and Professor

Cannon-Clary College of Education

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Contact Information


501-279-4242

Mailing address:
Harding University
College of Education
HU 12254
Searcy, AR 72149-5615