Degree Requirements

A candidate for the Educational Specialist degree is required to meet the following criteria:

1. Fulfill the general requirements for a graduate degree at Delta State University.

2. Complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate work beyond the master's degree, at least one-half of which must be 700-level courses, consisting of 6 hours of core courses and 24 to 30 hours in major subject area and electives as are required by the major field division (Educational Administration and Supervision, and Elementary Education). 500-level courses are not acceptable on the Educational Specialist degree program. Elective courses to complete a program of study in the concentration area will be determined in collaboration with the program coordinator.

3. Maintain a grade point average of at least 3.25 on all graduate work attempted toward the Educational Specialist degree in Educational Administration and Supervision. Candidates in the Educational Specialist degree in Elementary Education must earn at least a 3.0 on all graduate work attempted toward the Educational Specialist degree by the end of the first 12 hours or coursework, then earn and maintain at least 3.25 in order to qualify for the comprehensive exam and graduation.

4. Pass a comprehensive examination in the major field during the last term of course work.