Become an education policy expert and gain the tools you need to work toward equitable change in society
Our Master of Arts in Education Policy at the University of Pittsburgh School of Education focuses on equity-driven education policy analysis and transformation.
As a student, you will explore how the (re)design of educational systems can improve learning opportunities for students of all ages. You will also learn how policy and systems can be used to improve your own organizations.
Program Facts
Degree Type
Master of Arts (MA)
Enrollment Term
Fall, Spring, or Summer
Format
In-Person
Credits
36
Application Deadline
Rolling Admissions
Admissions Requirements
GRE exam not required
Duration
2 years
Time Commitment
Full-time or Part-Time
Upcoming Info Sessions
Program Overview
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education Policy is a 36-credit degree program that provides students with a foundational grounding in equity-driven education policy analysis. Core content areas include education policy systems and implementation, the social contexts of education, policy analysis methods, disciplinary study, and electives exploring specific policy topics and issues.
Our program is designed to accommodate part-time and full-time students. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as three semesters.
Students have the flexibility to choose courses that match their interests. Many options for customization exist within the curriculum and through the students’ choice between electives or the Area of Concentration (ARCO) option.
To satisfy the elective requirement, students have the option of completing an Area of Concentration (ARCO) as part of the degree. An ARCO is a University of Pittsburgh credential that provides additional specialization within a specific discipline of education policy. The ARCO pathway is 9 credits and does not result in any added cost, time, or credit hours.
See details about the ARCO courses in the curriculum section below.Â
"I plan to work in international education affairs in my career. The course set is making me familiar with the development of international education and the analytical methods for the educational policies worldwide."Liying Chen - Student
Prerequisites
While there are no specific prerequisites, students should have an interest in a career related to education policy and in exploring how policy can contribute to more just and equitable education systems.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for the program include:
Additionally, applicants must complete the School of Education online admissions application that will include:
Curriculum
The MA in Education Policy is a 36-credit program.
You will complete coursework in education policy foundations, the social contexts of education, psychological perspectives on education, research methods, and electives.
Additionally, you will complete a literature-based policy brief that serves as a comprehensive exam and a capstone experience through either an applied policy project or a thesis.
Career Pathways
The program prepares students for many different opportunities for career advancement, including:
Program News
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Pitt Education Soars to No. 27 in U.S. News Rankings - Read more
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Two Faculty Members Named 2022 AERA Outstanding Reviewers - Read more
PhD Student David Smith Receives NAEd/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship
PhD Student David Smith Receives NAEd/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship - Read more
