Educational Specialist, Ed.S.

The Ed.S. in Administrative Leadership at Carson-Newman University is designed for educators aiming to transition into school administration roles such as principal, district administrator, or superintendent. This fully online program spans approximately two years and consists of 36 credit hours. It emphasizes leadership development through courses in legal and ethical issues, school management, financial planning, and educational policy analysis. Candidates engage in a mentored residency, complete a professional portfolio, and may pursue the Beginning Administrative License (ILL-B) in Tennessee upon passing the Praxis Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA). The ILL-A is also available for qualified educators. Eligibility for full licensure endorsement includes at least three years of successful qualified teaching experience, practicum hours in an approved Tennessee school under approved mentorship, and a recommendation from the current school system. The program also integrates ethical, social, and spiritual leadership principles to prepare graduates for effecting continuous growth in dynamic educational environments.

The Ed.S. in Curriculum & Instruction Leadership is tailored for educators seeking to deepen their expertise in instructional design, teacher leadership, and curriculum development. Also delivered fully online in under two years, this 36-credit-hour program includes coursework in instructional strategies, diversity and exceptionality, evaluation for continuous improvement, and leadership theory. Students complete a mentored residency and develop a professional portfolio, with additional coursework aligned to their content area. The program fosters leadership in curriculum innovation and instructional excellence, equipping educators to lead professional learning communities and drive systemic improvement. Ethical, social, and spiritual leadership principles are embedded throughout the curriculum, reinforcing the program’s commitment to holistic educational leadership.