Keiser University

Educational Leadership (EdS)

Ocala Campus
Education Specialist
Educational Leadership (EdS)
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program online.
$18,636 per semester. This program spans 3 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive an Education Specialist degree, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Students must pass a Comprehensive Examination at the completion of coursework. The length of this program is approximately 20 months.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Educational Leadership (EdS) is an Education Specialist program (100% Online) offered by Keiser University in Ocala, FL. The program takes 20 Months to complete, with tuition of $18,636 per semester.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership prepares reflective scholars and capable professionals who apply theory and method to dynamically improve schools under their leadership and, ultimately, the communities they serve. The program fosters lifelong learning and values leadership, ethical and informed decision-making, program evaluation, effective communication, and technology.

What sets this Program apart

  • Students will demonstrate practice as a scholar researcher in the field to advance the body of knowledge.
  • Students demonstrate leadership and critical thinking to build safe, effective, learning cultures.
  • Students will demonstrate best practices for sound educational leadership in school and instructional management.
  • Students will demonstrate critical thinking in organizational abilities, written and spoken, communication, and in research skills.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space.

Credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcript directly from the previous institution by the end of a student’s first semester.

Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum one third of a program at any time through the University.

Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which a grade of “B” or higher was earned (3.0 on a 4.0 scale).

General Requirements

  • Application for Admission
    Submit an application for admission to the Graduate School
  • Baccalaureate or Master’s Transcript
    Submission of an unofficial baccalaureate or master's transcript from an accredited school. If transcripts are in a foreign language, student must provide proof of Foreign…
  • Minimum 3.0 CGPA
    Minimum 3.0 CGPA
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Personal Statement (if CGPA is below 3.0)
    If CGPA is < 3.0, Keiser University’s Graduate School requires the submission of a Personal Statement. This personal statement should include an explanation regarding the factors…
  • Supplemental Documents (optional)
    Supplemental documentation may be included to support a prospective student’s application. Supplemental documents may include: o Letter of Recommendation o GMAT or GRE Test Scores
  • Master’s Degree Prerequisite
    Master degree from an accredited institution

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s friendly admissions counselors.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an Open House or plan a campus visit.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application and complete your enrollment profile and application.
    Apply Now
  5. 5
    Review Program Requirements
    Review the Graduate School admission requirements for your program.
  6. 6
    Upload Your Admission Documents
    In the Student Enrollment Portal, click on “My Documents” and upload the corresponding documents to fulfil the admission requirements. Then submit the Letter of Recommendation Form and your Personal Statement.
  7. 7
    Schedule Your Financial Aid Appointment
    Your admissions counselor will connect you to your dedicated Financial Aid Officer to schedule your appointment and receive assistance completing the FAFSA. Keiser University’s FAFSA school code is 015159.
  8. 8
    Class Registration
    Once you have accepted your financial aid funding plan, the registrars will schedule your courses throughout your entire degree plan from start to completion.
  9. 9
    Order Books
    Your admissions counselor will assist you in ordering your books through the online bookstore. Standard receipt is 3–5 business days unless you order priority.
  10. 10
    Attend Orientation
    Online programs offer a self-paced orientation through Blackboard, or a scheduled live session before each class start date. For campus programs, speak with your admissions counselor about orientation requirements at your location.
  11. 11
    Begin Classes
    The class week runs Monday through Sunday, midnight EST. You must log in by Wednesday of week one to confirm attendance, and participate a minimum of three logins per week in the Blackboard classroom for each course.

Program Schedule

To receive an Education Specialist degree, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Students must pass a Comprehensive Examination at the completion of coursework. The length of this program is approximately 20 months. Courses in the Education Specialist program are eight-weeks in length and students are scheduled for one or two courses concurrently.
New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $18,636
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12+ credits)$18,636.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$13,977.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$9,318.00
Less than half time (3 to 5.99 credits)$4,659.00

An education fee of $750.00 per semester is charged for all graduate-level programs. One-time charges on enrolment are an application fee of $55.00 and a registration fee of $145.00.

Curriculum

To receive an Education Specialist degree, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Students must pass a Comprehensive Examination at the completion of coursework. The length of this program is approximately 20 months.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
EDU712Diversity, Ethical Decision-Making, and Community Relations (program pre-requisite)3
EDU710Ethical and Legal Issues in Education/Leadership3
IDT721Leading Technologies Innovation3
EDU730Funding of Educational Institutions3
EDU740Curriculum Design3
EDL750Leadership: Theory and Management3
EDL751Analysis of Data and Needs Assessment3
EDL752Innovation in Teaching and Supervision3
EDL753Leadership: Human Resources and Professional Development3
EDU741Differentiated Instruction3
EDU742Classroom Management3
IDT720Designing Training and Performance Solutions3
IDT722Management of Distance Education3

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s EdS in Educational Leadership enter the field prepared to pursue leadership positions within educational institutions across public and private schools and higher education settings. This specialist degree supports current educators and administrative professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills, apply best practices in instructional leadership, and address the needs of diverse student populations. The program prepares graduates to lead school improvement efforts, manage educational programs, and contribute to positive change within their communities and school districts. * While Keiser’s EdS in Educational Leadership offers advanced coursework for leadership skills to better prepare principal and assistant principal roles, it does not lead to certification. If this is your professional goal, check with your state’s educational governing body regarding the knowledge and skill requirements for principal or assistant principal positions before starting your program. Principal Assistant principal District administrator Dean of students or faculty District education researcher Education program researcher Chief academic officer Curriculum coordinator Department chair Education consultant Educational administration professional

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s Education Specialist in Educational Leadership prepares experienced educators and current school administrators to advance their careers through specialized graduate study. With flexible online learning, this specialist program aligns with your leadership goals and professional aspirations. Whether you’re looking to move into principal or assistant principal roles, lead curriculum initiatives, or contribute to district-level planning, Keiser provides the advanced education and practical insight needed to make a lasting impact in schools and educational communities.

Campus Address

Ocala Campus
1601 NE 25th Avenue, Suite 602
Ocala, FL 34470

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

What Our Students Say

A long time ago, I was told if a person is placed in the right environment they will succeed. That’s my experience I was the first female officer to be promoted to officer in my agency. I was advised my education was a factor that allowed me to surpass other candidates.

Brenda B
PhD Educational Leadership Graduate

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Top Questions About Earning an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership Degree

Can I earn an EdS in Educational Leadership online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Education Specialist in Educational Leadership program is available online, providing the same quality instruction, support, and resources as on-campus programs. This online learning format allows working professionals to complete required courses while maintaining their current teaching or administrative positions in public schools or other educational institutions.
What's the difference between the EdS, master's, and doctoral programs in educational leadership?
The master’s degree in education leadership provides foundational knowledge for entry into administrative roles. The Education Specialist degree offers advanced, specialized training for educators seeking leadership positions in schools and districts. Doctoral degrees (EdD and PhD) prepare graduates for top-level executive positions, research roles, and policy development work at the doctoral level across educational institutions.
What careers can I pursue with an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership?
Graduates can pursue careers as school principals, assistant principals, district administrators, curriculum coordinators, instructional coaches, department chairs, deans, and education consultants. Career advancement opportunities in educational administration depend on state certification requirements, teaching experience, and professional goals.
Can I receive credit for courses completed at another institution?
Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include: Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses. Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval. Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs. Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis. Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution. Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean. Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy
Can I use my EdS credits toward a doctoral degree?
Absolutely. Every credit earned in the Education Specialist in Educational Leadership degree can transfer to Keiser’s Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership (PhD EdL) program, allowing you to continue your educational journey without repeating coursework. This pathway provides flexibility for those seeking a doctoral degree after completing their specialist EdS program.
Do I need teaching experience to enroll in this program?
While Keiser’s program does not mandate teaching experience for admission, we recommend that prospective students review their state’s certification requirements for school administrator positions before enrolling. The program requires a relevant master’s degree from an accredited institution as part of the admission requirements.
Does this program lead to principal certification?
The EdS in Educational Leadership provides advanced coursework that prepares you for principal and assistant principal roles; however, it does not automatically lead to state certification. Certification requirements vary by state and typically involve additional assessments beyond degree completion. Check with your state’s educational governing body regarding the specific knowledge and skill requirements for administrative positions.
Is financial aid available for online graduate students?
Yes. Online graduate students can access financial aid resources. Scholarships are available to those who qualify. Keiser offers scholarship options for eligible military, teachers, first responders/emergency management professionals, and previous graduates. Simply ask your Financial Aid Officer for more information during the financial aid process. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ .
How long does it take to complete the EdS in Educational Leadership?
The program typically takes 10 to 24 months to complete, depending on course load, transfer credits, and individual progress. Keiser offers accelerated 8-week terms, which allow motivated students to advance quickly through required courses.
How much does it cost to earn this specialist degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify, which can affect total tuition cost. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions counselor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs .
What courses make up the EdS in Educational Leadership program?
The program includes 30 credit hours across foundation courses and leadership core courses. Topics cover ethical and legal issues, diversity and community relations, technology innovation, funding of educational institutions, curriculum design, leadership theory, assessment and evaluation, reform and innovation, and human development and professional development. Each course emphasizes practical application in the classroom and administrative settings.
Are these programs accredited?
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation . The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of graduate degree programs. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
How does this program support academic success?
The EdS in Educational Leadership program supports academic success through experienced faculty, flexible scheduling, comprehensive student services, and a curriculum grounded in the latest research. Students develop new skills in instructional leadership, educational administration, and program evaluation that translate directly to improved performance in their current roles and preparation for advancement.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Educational Leadership (EdS) at Ocala Campus.
Educational Leadership (EdS)