The Educational Specialist degree program is open to teachers who already have a master's degree in physical education and Class A teacher certification. Completion of this program allows graduates to obtain Class AA certification in physical education and additional compensation. In deference to working students, the Ed.S. degree program is entirely online. Students are able to finish their degree requirements in as few as three semesters or may choose to take a slower path – up to five years — to complete their degrees.
Admissions Requirements
Candidates must meet admission requirements for both the UAB Graduate School and the Class AA certification program. To be eligible for the latter, candidates must hold valid Alabama master's level professional educator certificates in physical education.
Coursework and Degree Requirements
In addition to taking required physical education and research courses, students must take 12 hours of 600-level and 700-level physical education electives and complete and pass a portfolio assessment in order to earn their degrees.
Teacher Certification
Graduates of the Education Specialist degree program are eligible for Class AA certification through the State of Alabama Department of Education.
Career Opportunities
Graduates with an educational specialist degree may advance professionally as elementary school, middle school, or high school physical education teaches and coaches.
