Educational Theory and Policy Program, MA
Welcome to Educational Theory and Policy
The program curriculum focus, as well as research of our faculty, aimed at improving educational opportunities and outcomes across different communities (urban/rural), school sectors, as well as regions of the world. Our research and teaching focus on understanding and improving the experiences of K-12 learners from different backgrounds, defined by their socioeconomic standing, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability status, and immigrant status. The courses offer policy analysis underscoring these topics. In addition to their major, many of our master's and doctoral students pursue dual degrees or a minor in fields such as Comparative and International Education, Demography, Sociology, and Statistics. Our alumni have become faculty members in United States universities and abroad, as well as joining state- and federal-level agencies, research institutes, and the World Bank. The faculty work is recognized both nationally and internationally, with the program currently ranking # 11 in the US News and World Report.
Students in the Educational Theory and Policy doctoral program are expected to acquire competencies in their areas of specialization together with research and scholarly skills for investigation of significant problems of education and society.
If you have read the Graduate School and program requirements and are ready to apply, you may proceed to the application at http://www.gradschool.psu.edu/apply/.
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FAQ
Typically, it takes 2 years to complete the Master's program in Educational Theory & Policy (4 semesters).
Our graduates work in research institutes (both domestic and international), educational policy think tanks and non-profits, as well as state and federal level governmental agencies. Many continue their studies in doctoral programs at top universities.
Unfortunately, there is no available funding for master’s program.
Typically, it takes 4 years (full-time) to complete the doctoral program in Educational Theory and Policy.
Limited funding is available on competitive basis.
Our program prepares students to a variety of career options, both within and outside of Academia. Some graduates receive post-doctoral fellowships, some continue on tenure-track professorial positions. Many of our former students work at domestic and international research institutes and agencies (AIR, UNESCO, World Bank), as well as state and federal level governmental agencies.
Educational Theory and Policy does not currently have an online option for Master's or Doctoral program. Being a part-time student is possible, but all courses are taken residentially.
New students start in the Fall Semester and form a cohort for each degree program.
PhD. December 1st.
MA. July 31st.
Please refer to the Graduate School's website for their requirements to apply:
https://gradschool.psu.edu/graduate-admissions/how-to-apply/new-applicants/requirements-for-graduate-admission/
Yes. Although there is a certain number of courses students are expected to take within EDTHP, the program is flexible enough to allow students to explore their interests outside of EDTHP, EPS and even the College.
Yes, our students have pursued minors in Demography, Comparative International Education, Statistics, Social Theory, C&I and other programs. Our students also pursue a dual degree in Comparative International Education.
Minor in Educational Theory and Policy
A graduate minor is available in any approved graduate major or dual-title program. The default requirements for a graduate minor are stated in Graduate Council policies listed under GCAC-600 Research Degree Policies and GCAC-700 Professional Degree Policies, depending on the type of degree the student is pursuing:
Professor-in-Charge
Dr. Soo-yong ByunProfessor of Education, Demography, and Asian Studies; Social Science Research Institute co-funded faculty member
310D Rackley Building , University Park, PA, 16802
Email: szb14@psu.edu
Academic Program Coordinator
Cassie VomeroEducational Theory and Policy
400 Rackley Building , University Park, PA, 16802
Email: cjm313@psu.edu
Phone: (814) 865-1488