Overview

Grand Valley's Educational Specialist in Leadership (Ed.S.) program equips school, district, and organizational leaders with practical experiences, case-based teaching methods, and a curriculum tailored to the specific needs of district leaders and superintendents at various career stages. This program offers candidates the chance to enhance their knowledge, skills, networking, and career opportunities and serves as an excellent transition to Ed.D. programs at partnering universities (90% of the credits from a completed degree will transfer). The Ed.S. in leadership with a focus on district-level administration builds on a master’s degree, preparing leaders for school and central office administrative roles.

This degree is 30 credit hours divided into three components. Students can expect to study instructional management, educational leadership and change, organizational behavior, ethics, decision-making, data-based decision-making, and educational law, policy, and practice. The program also includes courses on the superintendency, school board relations, and educational finance. A culminating practicum experience allows students to apply leadership concepts in practice, resulting in a professional portfolio.

The Ed.S. offers a leadership curriculum that excellently blends theory and practical application, leading to a CO central office school administrator endorsement. Faculty members bring extensive K-12 teaching and administrative backgrounds, ensuring high-quality instruction. With convenient locations and classes available both in person and online, the program is accessible across the state. Flexible hybrid classes, offered in the evenings and meeting virtually or in person about once per month, make it easier for teachers and administrators to plan their schedules. Additionally, the program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

College of Education and Community Innovation

gvsu.edu/education/grad
401 Fulton Street West, Building C
(616) 331-6650

Program Director

Gregory Warsen, Ph.D.
(616) 331-6209 | [email protected]

Application Deadline

Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year, but timely application is strongly encouraged to secure course enrollment. The GRE is not required. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if you have previously applied to GVSU.