What it is
A specialist degree sits between a master's and a doctorate. It's most established in education — the Education Specialist (EdS) — and school psychology, giving practitioners advanced training and credentials without completing a full doctorate.
The degrees & designations
Recognized specialist credentials include:
- EdSEducation Specialist (leadership, curriculum, and other education fields)
- SSP / SpSSpecialist in School Psychology
- CAGS / CASCertificate of Advanced Graduate Study / Advanced Study
Honest note: the genuinely recognized specialist degrees are essentially these education and school-psychology credentials — not a long list of "Specialist in [field]" titles.
How long it takes
About one to two years beyond the master's (roughly 30 additional credits), often pursued by working educators.
What you study
Advanced, focused coursework — in areas like educational leadership, curriculum, or school psychology — usually with a practicum or internship. School psychology specialist programs include supervised field experience toward credentialing.
Getting in
Typically requires a relevant master's degree (some programs integrate the master's), plus transcripts and field-specific requirements.
Cost & funding
Costs are moderate — less than a doctorate — and the degree is often pursued while working, sometimes with employer support.
Where it leads
A specialist degree supports advanced roles and licensure — for example, principal, superintendent, or credentialed school psychologist — for those who don't need or want a full doctorate.
How it compares
The specialist degree sits above the master's and below the doctorate, offering an advanced credential and often a licensure pathway as an alternative to an EdD or PhD.
Is it right for you?
A specialist degree suits educators and school psychologists who want advanced training, roles, or licensure beyond a master's but short of a doctorate.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring the education resource:
Key facts
- LevelPost-master's (below doctorate)
- Length~1–2 years / ~30 credits beyond the master's
- Main typesEdS and Specialist in School Psychology (SSP)
- FieldPrimarily education
- Leads toAdvanced roles / licensure without a doctorate
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the K12 Academics education resource library: