MA in Educational Policy Studies

The Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Policy Studies at Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development prepares students to conduct rigorous education-focused research and data analysis, and to make informed decisions when creating PreK-20 education and child policies.

Students in the MA in Educational Policy Studies balance training in research methods with deliberations on the foundations, design, and implementation of educational and child policy. They also gain an understanding of modern research and research methods through both coursework and direct research experiences, and pursue an apprenticeship or internship under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

(Are you deciding between the EdM in Educational Leadership or Educational Policy Studies? Consult our program comparison chart.)

Essential Questions

Hear More about the MA in Educational Policy Studies

 

    Educational Policy Studies Career Outcomes

    The MA in Educational Policy Studies develops skills necessary for success in research-focused careers, such as:

    • Researcher, analyst, or administrator at a research firm, think tank, foundation, government office, or education-focused nonprofit organization
    • Preparation for entrance to a PhD program in education or social sciences

    MA in Educational Policy Studies Program Requirements

    Students in the MA in Educational Policy Studies complete required core coursework (23 credits). In addition, they complete elective coursework (eight credits, approximately two courses) on topics related to research methods, education, human development, and policymaking. One elective course can be taken outside of BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development. Courses are selected in consultation with an academic advisor.

    Research Apprenticeship (2 credits)

    Students are required to successfully complete an apprenticeship (SED RS 699) with a BU faculty member or a partner organization on a student-led research project focused on a policy-relevant issue. Students will be assisted by their faculty advisors with the search and placement process during the fall semester and conduct research in the spring semester that culminates in a capstone project research brief and policy presentation.

    Workshop on Fundamental Statistics

    Students are encouraged to attend a free four-day statistics workshop the week before the degree program starts in the fall, led by BU Wheelock faculty. The goal of this workshop is to refresh and prepare students for the Quantitative Methods research course RS 653 and any other advanced research methods courses.

    Visit the BU Bulletin for information on this program’s academic requirements.

    Program Faculty

    Next Steps in Educational Policy Studies

    Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about our master’s degree in Educational Policy Studies.

    Contact Info

    For more information about this program and requirements for admission, contact Program Director Dr. Ariel Tichnor-Wagner, arieltw@bu.edu.