Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > EdS in Elementary Education

Educational Specialist (EdS) in
Elementary Education

Online

Program Overview

The University of Alabama offers you the ability to earn an EdS in Elementary Education degree around your schedule – 100% online. In this program, you will have the opportunity to study current research topics and best practices to curate an effective educational environment for your students.

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
30-36
Tuition Per Hour
$440

Model Lifelong Learning and Continue Your Education

Your coursework will focus on the constructivist nature of the teaching-learning process. Courses are taught by the same faculty who teach on the UA campus but can be completed online. The EdS in Elementary Education is perfect for those seeking Alabama Class AA certification or the equivalent in another state and are interested in expanding their skill set through coursework in diversity, leadership, research and hands-on classroom experiences.

You will complete an action research thesis, which gives you the opportunity to teach a piece of curriculum from your own classroom or school in a new way and compare the results with previous outcomes.

Application DeadlineApplications accepted year round
Fees$10 College of Education graduate fee (per credit hour)
AccreditationCouncil for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Required For EntranceMaster's level teaching certificate in Elementary Education
Scholarships and Grants AvailableDiscover a range of scholarships and grants to support your educational journey
Teacher Salary ScheduleAccess the Alabama State Department of Education Salary Schedule to understand earning potential for educators
Completion TimeMost students earn their degree in less than two years

Curriculum

The EdS in Elementary Education consists of 30-36 credit hours.

Please note that courses are subject to change.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates for service in the public schools may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education. Check with the appropriate department head for information about current requirements.

Required Courses

CIE 625 Research Seminar Science Curriculum
CIE 626 Research Seminar Social Science Curriculum
CIE 680 Seminar in Mathematics Educational Research
CRD 690 Advanced Seminar Literacy
CEE 687 Topical Research Review
CEE 697 Specialist Degree Research (or advisor approved elective)

Additional Requirements

Foundations of Professional Studies Course
- Students choose one course from the ALSDE-approved list – see academic department or the College of Education’s Office of Student Services
Educational Research course: 3 credit hours
Advisor approved practicum or research course: 3 credit hours
Advisor approved elective course: 3 credit hours
BER 550 Evaluation of Classroom Learning (required for those who have not completed an appropriate evaluation of technology and learning course)
SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not completed an appropriate special education survey course)

The UA Graduate Catalog is published annually. State-approved program checklists may be updated more frequently and are thus likely to provide the most up-to date information about requirements. Students should consult their advisors each semester before registering.

Admission

Admission to the Educational Specialist in Elementary Education degree program requires the following:

A master’s degree from an accredited institution
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid master’s level professional educator certificate in Elementary Education
- An applicant who holds both Class B Elementary certification and Class A Reading certification is also eligible
A 3.0 GPA or higher in a completed graduate degree program
Statement of purpose
Completed UA Graduate School application
Completed requirements for fingerprinting/background clearance
Three letters of recommendation
- Recommendation letters must be from current and former professors and/or supervisory personnel knowledgeable of the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities for all College of Education programs that lead to professional certification

Applications are accepted each semester. Students may begin the program in the fall, spring or summer semester.

This program leads to Alabama Class AA certification in Elementary Education (K-6) for eligible students. If you reside or intend to seek professional licensure outside of the state of Alabama, please review the requirements for that state prior to applying to this program.

Find more information and learn about restrictions related to this degree program that may exist regarding licensure in the state in which you reside.