Leadership for Learning (EdS) Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there an entrance exam required to enter the program?

  Currently there is no GRE required for admissions into the EdS program.

• What are the entrance requirements for the EdS?
  • Partnership Agreement between KSU and Candidate’s School District or Charter/Independent School
  • Agreement that District or Independent School to “support” Candidate in this program (this differs by institution – please check with your human resources department or administration)
  • Complete a program application
  • Hold a master’s degree – or higher – in a professional education or related field
  • Have a minimum of four (4) years of teaching or administrative experience
  • No GRE currently required
  • Hold a leadership “position” or “role” (as defined by your District or Independent/Charter school)
  • Hold a current Georgia Leadership Certification (L-5 or Tier-1 ).
• Can classroom educators enter the EdS program?
  Absolutely. At our district partners’ requests, we are now (Spring 2017) allowing classroom educators to enter the performance-based leadership program.  They must occupy what their district considers to be a “leadership role” and have adequate release time to complete performance-based activities.
• Will I really complete the majority of this program – literally – in my school?
  Yes. The residency-based nature of the program allows candidates to demonstrate their mastery of content through authentic, practice-based assignments in their schools. The remainder of course work is online.
• Who should apply to the Performance-based EdS program and the Tier-II Certification Add-on?
  What is the length of study for the EdS and the PL-6? The EdS. Program is designed to be completed within four semesters. A candidate takes three courses each semester (core and residency).
• Does the EdS program offer the building-level leadership track as well as the system-level leadership track?
  Yes. Building level tracks prepare leaders for site. If a building level administrator is transferred or promoted to the district level, the candidate needs only to satisfy the additional coursework to complete system-level leadership certification.
• Are hours transferable from another university?
  Individuals can make request to transfer graduate hours that are not part of an existing degree. Courses obtained only within the last 6 year are eligible for transfer. Courses must have been obtained from an accredited, recognized university. All hours are subject to review by the program director and department chair.
• Why does the length of the program vary depending upon whether I have a master’s degree in educational leadership?
  The Georgia Professional Standards Commission requires all leadership candidates to have a certain level of content knowledge before beginning a residency-based leadership program.  The PSC requires the candidate to earn a Tier I certificate in Leadership first.  Tier I is generally for assistant principals and Tier II is for principals and higher.

For further information, contact Dr. Binbin DeVillar, Program Coordinator at bjiang@kennesaw.edu.