Most candidates for the Certificate of Eligibility (the first administrative credential) also take seven additional units in educational statistics and research design to earn the M.A. degree. Once earned, the Certificate of Eligibility lasts indefinitely until the candidate obtains an administrative position, and then is converted, without further coursework, to the Preliminary AdministrativeServices Credential, which lasts five years. Administrative credentials in California authorize service as a superintendent, associate superintendent, deputy superintendent, principal, assistant principal, curriculum coordinator, or in any equivalent or intermediate level administrative position.