This program is designed primarily for professionals who hold positions of leadership in education or who aspire to provide educational leadership. The purpose of the program is to develop and enhance the functional capability of educational leaders. The research component is practitioner-oriented with emphasis on the utilization of research findings for decision making. The degree is designed to meet the educational needs of regional place-bound, full-time employed professionals who will be selected from a wide range of educational backgrounds. These backgrounds include, but are not limited to, public school personnel, community college and university personnel, social and health related personnel, and military personnel. The Ed.S. Program will prepare professionals in the community to assume administrative and leadership positions.