Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > EdS in Secondary Education (General Science 6-12 Certification)

Educational Specialist (EdS) in
Secondary Education (General Science 6-12 Certification)

Online

Program Overview

The Educational Specialist (EdS) in Secondary Education General Science 6-12 Certification online degree program is designed to prepare science teachers to become leaders in teaching science in their local settings, in providing professional development in science, and in the administration of science departments by enhancing professional competencies. Emphasis is placed on the National and State Science Education Standards.

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
30-33
Tuition Per Hour
$440

The Path to Leadership Starts at Your Fingertips

Current secondary education teachers who earn the degree may be eligible for teacher certification at the specialist level in the following teaching fields: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or General Science. Those who complete the program will acquire knowledge that will assist them in becoming nationally board-certified teachers.

This program can also serve as a bridge for those interested in eventual completion of a science education doctorate. Graduates of the EdS program will have developed the expertise to facilitate positive change at the secondary or postsecondary levels serving in such positions as mentor teachers, curriculum specialists, resource teachers, adjunct and full-time professors, or science content administrators.

Application DeadlineWe are now accepting applications for Fall 2025. Applications 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
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 Secondary Education with General Science 6-12 certification requires a total of 30-33 credit hours of study beyond the master’s degree and may be completed in as little as two years of part-time study. Students will complete 12 credit hours in a teaching field. Teaching field courses are not offered by distance at UA. Please note that courses are subject to change.

Required Courses

CIE 625 Seminar in Science Education Research
CSE 665 Improving Science Instruction
CSE 670 Research and Theory in Secondary Education
CSE 693 Advanced Workshop in Secondary Education OR
CSE 697 Educational Specialist Degree Research

Research Course
- BER 540 Statistical Methods in Education OR
- BER 600 Quantitative Research Methods in Education OR
- BER 631 Inquiry as Interpretation: Qualitative I
Foundations of Professional Studies: 3 credit hours
SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not taken a special education survey course)

*Up to 12 credit hours in the teaching field graduate science courses can be transferred to the program from other institutions if they meet the following conditions: 1) The teaching field graduate courses must be advisor pre-approved and from an NCATE accredited institution of equivalent value, and; 2) The graduate courses must be within the certification subject teaching field.

Admission

Admission to the EdS program requires the following:

A master’s degree from an accredited institution
Transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid master’s level professional educator certificate in General Science (6-12), Biology (6-12), Chemistry (6-12) or Physics (6-12)
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.

If the applicant did not receive a master’s degree and certification in Alabama, the completion of this EdS degree will not provide Alabama AA (EdS level) certification. Those seeking licensure outside of Alabama must inquire with the certification agency in the state where EdS level certification is sought.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education.

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.