Blog Archive - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Ed.S. vs. Administrative Licensure Programs: What’s the Difference? Ed.S. vs. Administrative Licensure Programs: What’s the Difference?

If you’re exploring advanced credentials in education, you will notice options. Should you pursue an educational specialist degree or administrative licensure? While both pathways are designed to prepare educators for leadership roles, they serve different purposes and are typically pursued for different outcomes. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers several options for both paths. It’s […]

From Teacher to Director of SPED: Do You Need an Ed.S.? From Teacher to Director of SPED: Do You Need an Ed.S.?

Earning an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree creates more advancement opportunities, especially for those seeking Special Education (SPED) Director positions. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a fully online Educational Specialist Degree and Director of SPED Licensure program with opportunities to specialize in targeted areas of special education. Here, we discuss how earning an Ed.S. degree can […]

Negotiations and HR Core Skills for the Modern Superintendent Negotiations and HR Core Skills for the Modern Superintendent

For many educators, becoming an administrator or school superintendent is a career goal. As a leadership position, however, a superintendent role requires more than teaching ability. It also requires negotiation skills, human resources (HR) competency, and other administrative skills to direct your district effectively. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a Superintendent Licensure Preparation program for […]

Can an Ed.S. Boost Teacher Leader Pay Without Administrative Licensure? Can an Ed.S. Boost Teacher Leader Pay Without Administrative Licensure?

Are you looking for ways to accelerate your teaching career? Consider earning an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Teacher Leadership degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Specialist degrees can provide access to higher pay lanes and open gateways to advanced roles such as department director, school principal, and more, without the need for administrative licensure. Here, […]

How Can an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Prepare You for Grad School? How Can an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Prepare You for Grad School?

Choosing an accelerated bachelor’s degree program can feel like a smart way to save time and money, but you may wonder how it impacts graduate school. At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, we know this is a common question for adult learners planning their next academic step. Here, we’ll explore how our new FastTrack 90TM degree paths work, […]

What Can You Accomplish with a 90-Credit Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree? What Can You Accomplish with a 90-Credit Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree?

Students exploring accelerated bachelor’s degrees often have important questions such as: Is the degree fully accredited? What can I accomplish with an accelerated degree? At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, our 90-credit bachelor’s programs are regionally accredited and intentionally designed to deliver academic rigor in a streamlined format. Here, you’ll learn what accreditation means, why it […]

Reading Specialist Job Description: Skills Districts Look for in Interviews Reading Specialist Job Description: Skills Districts Look for in Interviews

School districts don’t hire reading specialists based only on their credentials written on paper. They look for professionals who can diagnose reading challenges, support diverse learners, and collaborate efficiently with teachers and families. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an Online Graduate Certificate in K-12 Reading designed for teachers who want to advance their careers and […]

What Skills Do Districts Want in New Principals Today? What Skills Do Districts Want in New Principals Today?

School leadership is evolving, and districts today expect principals to do far more than manage daily operations. They want leaders who can drive instructional excellence, foster an inclusive school culture, and build strong community partnerships. If you’re preparing for a principal role, understanding these expectations and how to develop the right skills is essential. Saint […]

Do I Need an Ed.S. for Principal Licensure in Minnesota? Do I Need an Ed.S. for Principal Licensure in Minnesota?

Pursuing leadership roles in K-12 education is fulfilling, rewarding, and helps working educators find purpose within the classroom. An Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree is one of the most common paths to school leadership, including becoming a K-12 principal. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an Ed.S. with Principal Licensure program that helps prepare graduates for […]

How to Choose the Right Ed.S. Program for Your Goals (Online, Licensure, Track) How to Choose the Right Ed.S. Program for Your Goals (Online, Licensure, Track)

Choosing the right Education Specialist (Ed.S.) program is a pivotal step for educators aiming to advance their careers and make a lasting impact. With so many options available, understanding program formats, licensure tracks, and career outcomes is essential to choosing the right program for you and your goals. At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, our […]