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

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 Course – approved by advisor
  • 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
  • A valid master’s level professional educator certificate in secondary general science, secondary biology, secondary chemistry, or secondary physics
  • 3.0 GPA or higher in a completed graduate degree program

A completed application package includes official transcripts from all institutions attended, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a Graduate School application.

Applications are accepted each 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.

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.

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Contact Us

Program Information

Hannah Homan
Admissions Representative
800-467-0227
hannahh.bama@ua.edu

Admissions Information

UA Online
800-467-0227
online@ua.edu

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