EdS vs. EdD: Choosing the Right Path in Educational Leadership

For educators looking to further their careers, pursuing an advanced degree can open doors to greater influence in shaping education policies and practices.

But with multiple paths available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That is where the question of EdS vs. EdD comes into play: Should you pursue a Specialist in Education (EdS) to deepen your expertise and make an immediate impact in your field? Or is a Doctor of Education (EdD) the better choice for those aiming to drive large-scale change through research and leadership?

In this guide, we dive into what sets EdS vs. EdD apart and how to choose a degree that aligns with your passions and professional goals.

Distinguishing Between EdS and EdD Degrees

So, what sets EdD vs. EdS apart? While both are designed for education professionals seeking advancement, they serve different career aspirations.

An EdS is a post-master’s degree that offers specialized training beyond a master’s but stops short of a doctorate.¹ It is ideal for educators who want to deepen their educational knowledge without committing to a full doctoral program.

Additionally, an EdS:²

• Focuses on areas like curriculum, school psychology, or administration
• It is designed for leadership roles at the school or district level
• Provides practical skills for improving instruction and policy
• Takes less time than a doctorate for quicker career advancement

But for those who want to shape the future of education on a larger scale, the EdD offers a broader scope of influence. This degree:³

• Emphasizes leadership, policy, and organizational reform
• Prepares professionals for roles in administration and higher education
• Uses research-driven solutions for real-world challenges
• Helps implement large-scale improvements in education

Ultimately, while both degrees enhance professional skill sets, they differ in scope and purpose, along with several other key factors.

Key Differences Between EdS and EdD

At first glance, the EdS vs. EdD debate might seem like a choice between two similar paths, but the differences between these degrees go beyond their titles—each is designed with a distinct purpose, shaping not only what you learn but also how you apply it in the field.

Whether you are looking to refine your skills or redefine the future of education, knowing what else sets these degrees apart will bring you one step closer to making the right choice.

Degree Level and Duration

One of the most noticeable differences between EdS and EdD is the level of study and the time commitment required for each degree.

An EdS is a post-master’s degree designed for professionals who want advanced schooling without completing a doctorate. In terms of academic advancement and program length, an EdS:⁴

• Typically takes 1–2 years to complete
• Focuses on specialized knowledge for immediate application

Alternatively, the EdD is a doctoral degree that prepares educators for high-level leadership and research roles.⁵ Unlike an EdS, an EdD:⁶

• It is a terminal degree at the doctoral level
• Usually takes 3 or more years to complete
• It involves coursework, research, and often a dissertation

For educators in California, pursuing an EdS may also align with earning a Special Education Teaching Credential. This credential can provide additional expertise in supporting students with diverse learning needs.

Curriculum Focus

While both degrees offer opportunities for career enhancement, their curriculum serves different professional goals.

For those seeking to refine their expertise in a specific area of education, the EdS offers targeted coursework designed for direct application. It focuses on:⁷

• Developing specialized skills in fields like curriculum development or administration
• Preparing educators for advanced practitioner roles without extensive research
• Emphasizing problem-solving and best practices within a chosen discipline

In contrast, the EdD is designed for educators who want to drive large-scale change and influence the future of education. Central themes of the EdD curriculum include:⁸

• Policy development and organizational improvement
• Applied research to address real-world educational challenges
• Institutional leadership and implementation of systemic reforms

Dissertation and Research Requirements

The level of research required is another major difference in the EdS vs EdD comparison. While both degrees involve expert-level study, they take different approaches to research and scholarly work.

For those who want to hone their expertise without a heavy research focus, the EdS offers a more direct, practice-oriented path:⁹

• Often does not require a dissertation
• May include a capstone project or applied research component
• Focuses on practical knowledge rather than original research

Meanwhile, the EdD is designed for educators who want to explore complex challenges and drive change through research:¹⁰

• Typically requires a dissertation or substantial research project
• Involves studying real-world educational challenges and proposing solutions
• Develops skills in data analysis, policy evaluation, and institutional improvement

Admission Requirements for EdS and EdD

Before committing to an EdS or EdD, it’s important to understand the admission requirements for each program. While both degrees require a strong background in education, the specific criteria can vary.

EdS Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree in education or a related field
• Professional teaching or administrative experience
• Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose
• No dissertation or GRE requirement in many programs

EdD Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree (some programs may accept candidates with extensive professional experience)
• Leadership experience in education or a related sector
• GRE scores (varies by institution)
• Research proposal or statement of intent

Since EdD programs often require a greater research focus, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to engage in scholarly work.

Explore Education Degrees

Career Paths for EdS and EdD Graduates

Every educator’s journey is unique, shaped by their passions, skills, and the impact they hope to make. Some thrive in hands-on roles, working directly with students and schools, while others are drawn to positions that influence policy and institutional change.

The EdS vs. EdD decision plays a key role in defining your path.

By exploring the career opportunities that each degree unlocks, you can gain a clearer vision of where your education can take you.

EdS Degree Holders

An EdS may open doors to impactful roles within education, providing specialized knowledge without the need for high-level administrative responsibilities. That could be just one of the benefits of an EdS degree.

These positions allow professionals to directly affect students, teachers, and school systems through focused knowledge and refined skills:¹¹

• Curriculum specialists – In this role, educators design and refine instructional programs to improve student learning outcomes.
• Instructional coordinators – Teaching strategies, educator training, and the implementation of new educational technologies are key aspects of this position.
• School psychologists – School psychologists play a critical role in mental health support by assessing learning challenges and promoting mental well-being.

EdS graduates become experts in their fields, applying research-based strategies to enhance education at the school and district levels. 

EdD Degree Holders

An EdD prepares professionals to lead beyond the classroom, shaping policies, institutions, and even entire educational systems. These graduates may step into roles where decisions influence schools, educators, and students on a broad scale:¹²

• Educational administrators – Administrators oversee school districts, manage budgets, and implement strategic initiatives.
• Higher education leaders – In leadership positions, educators can direct colleges and universities, shaping academic programs and institutional policies.
• Policy-makers – Policy-makers drive legislative and organizational change, along with developing frameworks that impact education at local, state, or national levels.

EdD graduates who focus on transformative teaching play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education, using research and leadership to drive meaningful, lasting change.

Addressing Common Questions

Even after digging into the differences, choosing between an EdD vs. EdS is not always straightforward. With overlapping coursework and different career outcomes, it is natural to have questions about which path is the right fit.

Luckily, exploring these common concerns can help you determine which role best supports your professional goals.

#1 Should I Get an EdS or EdD?

Your degree choice is not just about earning another credential—it is about shaping your future in education. Do you see yourself honing specialized skills to improve teaching and learning? Or are you driven to lead, influence policy, and transform entire educational systems?

The right path ultimately depends on your goals:

• Specialized expertise - Choose an EdS if you want to specialize in areas like curriculum development, instructional coaching, or school psychology. This degree deepens proficiency without the commitment of a doctorate.
• Leadership and systemic change - Pursue an EdD if you aim to lead at the district, university, or policy level. This degree prepares professionals for executive leadership, systemic reform, and research-driven decision-making.

#2 Is an EdS the Same as a Doctorate?

While an EdS goes beyond a master’s degree, it is not considered a doctorate. Rather, it serves a distinct purpose: providing deeper expertise for educators seeking specialized knowledge without the commitment of a full doctoral program.

Think of it as a bridge—more in-depth than a master’s but without the extensive research and dissertation required for a doctorate.

#3 Is an EdD as Respected as a PhD?

Both the EdD and PhD are highly respected doctoral degrees in education, but they serve different purposes: While a PhD emphasizes theoretical research, an EdD focuses on applying research to solve real-world educational challenges.¹³

To that end, recognition can depend on which field you are most drawn to:

• Administration and policy - In education leadership, administration, and policy, the EdD is widely respected and often preferred for its practical approach.
• Academia and research - In academic and research-focused roles, a PhD may carry more weight, especially for those pursuing tenure-track positions.

Transitioning from EdS to EdD: Can You Upgrade?

If you earn an EdS and later decide to pursue an EdD, some programs allow you to transfer credits, reducing the time and cost required to complete the doctorate.

Key considerations for transitioning from EdS to EdD:

• Some universities allow EdS graduates to apply previous coursework toward an EdD
• Research and dissertation requirements may still need to be completed
• The transition process depends on institutional policies and accreditation

If you’re unsure about committing to a doctorate but may want to in the future, choosing an EdS program with EdD transfer options can keep your path open.

Explore Education Degrees

Making the Decision: EdS or EdD?

To decide where you truly see yourself in the future, consider your:

• Career aspirations - Do you want to refine your expertise in a specific area, or do you see yourself leading large-scale change?
• Time commitment - An EdS takes 1–2 years to complete, while an EdD requires 3 or more years, often with intensive research.
• Research interests - If you enjoy hands-on application, an EdS may be ideal. If you are drawn to research and innovation, an EdD could be the better fit.

Collaborating with mentors, professors, or admissions officers can also provide clarity, helping you forge your future career with confidence.

Navigating Your Educational Future

Choosing between an EdS vs. EdD is a decision that shapes not just your education but also your career and impact in the field.

The EdS offers a focused, practice-driven path for those who want to specialize in areas like curriculum development, instructional leadership, or school psychology. The EdD, on the other hand, prepares educators to lead at a broader level, influencing policy, administration, and systemic change.

Both paths hold value—your final decision ultimately depends on where you want to go. By aligning your choice with your professional aspirations, you can take the next step in your career, knowing your education is a powerful tool for the future.

---

Sources: 

1. Nikki Notes. “FAQ: What Is an Education Specialist (EdS) Degree?.” Indeed. April 18, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-educati…. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
2. Nikki Notes. “FAQ: What Is an Education Specialist (EdS) Degree?.” Indeed. April 18, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-educati…. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
3. “EdD vs. PhD Degrees.” EdX. 2025. https://teach.com/online-ed/education-degrees/online-edd-programs/edd-v…. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
4. “What is the difference between an EdD and an EdS degree?” Online EdD Programs. February 1, 2024. https://www.onlineeddprograms.com/faqs/edd-vs-eds-degree. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
5. “What is the difference between an EdD and an EdS degree?” Online EdD Programs. February 1, 2024. https://www.onlineeddprograms.com/faqs/edd-vs-eds-degree. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
6. “What is the difference between an EdD and an EdS degree?” Online EdD Programs. February 1, 2024. https://www.onlineeddprograms.com/faqs/edd-vs-eds-degree. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
7. “What is an EdS degree? Is an EdS a terminal degree?” Online EdD Programs. February 1, 2024. https://www.onlineeddprograms.com/faqs/what-is-an-eds-program. Accessed March 12, 2025.
8. Jeff Keeling. “What to Expect from Ed.D. Programs.” K-12 Teachers Alliance. 2025. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/what-to-expect-from-ed-d-programs/. Accessed March 12, 2025.
9. “What is the difference between an EdD and an EdS degree?” Online EdD Programs. February 1, 2024. https://www.onlineeddprograms.com/faqs/edd-vs-eds-degree. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
10. Jeff Keeling. “What to Expect from Ed.D. Programs.” K-12 Teachers Alliance. 2025. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/what-to-expect-from-ed-d-programs/. Accessed March 12, 2025.
11. Nikki Notes. “FAQ: What Is an Education Specialist (EdS) Degree?.” Indeed. April 18, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-educati…. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
12. Anubha Verma. “What Can You Do With an Education Doctorate? (With 10 Jobs).” Indeed. April 18, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-you-do-with…. Accessed March 12, 2025. 
13. Rick Bolling. “Educational Leadership Degree: Ed.S. vs. Ed.D.” K-12 Teachers Alliance. 2025. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/educational-leadership-degree-ed-s…. Accessed March 12, 2025.