EdS vs. Master's: Which Path is Right for You?

Planning your graduate education but unsure how far you need to go? The key question isn't which degree to choose first—it's whether a Master's degree will be enough for your career goals, or if you'll need to continue to an Educational Specialist (EdS) degree.

The Real Question: How Much Education Do You Need?

When planning your graduate education at Lincoln University, you're really asking: "Can I achieve my career goals with a Master's degree, or will I need the advanced specialization of an EdS?"

Understanding this upfront helps you plan your time, finances, and career timeline more effectively.

When a Master's Degree Is Enough

For many careers, a Master's degree provides all the credentials and knowledge you need for professional success and advancement.

Master's-Level Career Paths at Lincoln University:

K-12 School Counseling - MEd in Counseling Aligns with Missouri licensing requirements for K-12 School Counselors

School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal) - MEd in School Administration and Supervision Prepares you for the Missouri principal exam; this is the standard credential for most K-12 administrative positions

Higher Education Administration - MA in Higher Education (HBCU concentration) Entry and mid-level positions in college administration typically require a Master's degree

Professional Counseling in Various Settings - MEd in Counseling Meets requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors and Addiction Counselors in Missouri

Liberal Arts and Science Careers - MA in History, Sociology, Community Development, or MS in Natural Science Most positions requiring graduate-level knowledge accept Master's degree credentials

Signs a Master's Is Sufficient for Your Goals:

• Job postings for your target career typically list "Master's degree required"
• Professional licensing in your field requires a Master's but not higher
• You want to enter the workforce relatively quickly after your Bachelor's degree
• Your career goals don't require deep specialization beyond Master's-level knowledge

When You Should Plan for an EdS

Some career goals benefit significantly from the advanced specialization that an EdS provides, especially in competitive fields or specialized roles.

EdS-Level Specializations at Lincoln University:

Advanced Clinical Mental Health Practice - EdS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling For those wanting advanced therapeutic skills beyond basic counseling credentials

• Provides "expedited licensure path for Missouri Licensed Professional Counselor"
• Designed for enhanced career prospects in clinical settings
• 30-credit hour advanced program for Master's degree holders

Educational Leadership with Mental Health Specialization - EdS in Educational Leadership (School Mental Health option) For school leaders who want specialized expertise in addressing student mental health

• Addresses the growing need for mental health awareness in schools
• Covers organizational and legal issues specific to school mental health
• Prepares leaders to effectively communicate with mental health organizations

Signs You Might Need an EdS:

• You want to specialize in a specific, advanced area of practice
• Your career goals involve leadership roles that require specialized expertise
• You're in a competitive field where advanced credentials provide an advantage
• You want to qualify for positions that specifically prefer or require post-Master's training
• You're already working in the field and see the need for deeper specialization

Making Your Decision

Consider Your Career Timeline

Want to Start Working Sooner? Start with a Master's degree. You can always return for an EdS later after gaining professional experience. Many EdS students are working professionals who identified specific areas where they needed deeper expertise.

Willing to Invest More Time Upfront? If you know you want advanced specialization, you can plan for it from the beginning, but you'll still need to complete your Master's first.

Research Your Target Jobs

Look at job postings for positions you want in 5-10 years:

• What credentials do they typically require vs. prefer?
• Do they mention advanced specializations or certifications?
• What credentials do people currently in those roles have?

Consider Your Learning Goals

Broad Professional Competence → Master's degree likely sufficient Deep Specialization in Specific Areas → Plan for EdS after Master's

Financial and Time Considerations

Master's Programs: Your essential investment for entering graduate-level practice EdS Programs: Additional investment for specialized expertise

Remember: You don't have to decide everything now. Many successful professionals complete their Master's, work in their field, and then pursue an EdS when they identify specific areas where advanced training would benefit their career.

Practical Next Steps

If You Don't Have a Master's Yet:

1. Choose the Master's program that aligns with your career goals
2. Keep EdS possibilities in mind but don't overcommit to them yet
3. Focus on succeeding in your Master's program and gaining initial professional experience

If You Already Have a Master's:

1. Evaluate whether advanced specialization would significantly benefit your current career trajectory
2. Consider whether an EdS addresses specific challenges or opportunities you've encountered in your work
3. Research whether EdS credentials would open new career opportunities that interest you

Lincoln University's Flexible Approach

Several Master's programs are designed for working professionals:

• MEd in School Administration and Supervision - 100% online
• MA in Higher Education (HBCU concentration) - 100% online

This flexibility means you can earn your Master's while working, gain professional experience, and then decide if an EdS would benefit your specific career path.

The Bottom Line

Most careers require a Master's degree as the standard graduate credential. EdS programs provide advanced specialization for specific career paths or professional advancement goals.

You don't need to commit to an entire educational journey upfront. Start with the Master's program that aligns with your career goals, and let your professional experience guide you toward whether additional specialization through an EdS would benefit your specific path.

Contact Information

Office of Graduate Studies Phone: (573) 681-5125 Email: GradSchool@LincolnU.edu

School of Education Phone: (573) 681-5250 Email: SchoolofEducation@LincolnU.edu

For detailed program requirements, review the Graduate Bulletin or visit our Graduate Studies webpage.