Policy Research, Evaluation, and Measurement (PREM)

M.S.    M.Phil.Ed.        Ph.D. 

The M.S., M.Phil.Ed., and Ph.D. degree programs combine the study of research design, statistical methods, measurement, and program evaluation in education, psychology, and related human services fields, with a research focus on major contemporary policy issues. The programs are designed to prepare students for research and academic careers in education, psychology, and related fields. Graduates are expected to be able to contribute significantly to human welfare through the empirical research, evaluation, and development of more effective public policy addressing a wide variety of human needs.

In addition to developing expertise in advanced methods of research, students select and study an active field of policy development and evaluation such as school restructuring, bilingual education, dropout prevention, or child abuse. The curriculum is tailored to the student's particular interests and background, and integrates research methods with policy content. Research experience is an integral part of the curriculum.

 

Master of Science (M.S.) in Statistics, Measurement, Assessment, and Research Technology (SMART)

The SMART Master of Science degree program is designed to prepare individuals for work in research and assessment organizations that place high value on quality of evidence, statistical analysis, assessment, and psychometrics, as well as the use of technology in producing evidence and informing policy. The eight-course-unit minimum makes it possible to complete all degree requirements in one academic year of full-time study, though part-time study is also an option. Studies leading to this degree include coursework, a research apprenticeship, and a written general examination.

The program provides understanding and skills in data collection, management, and processing; measurement theory and test construction; survey design; assessment strategies; and statistical analysis and reporting.

Courses include:

EDUC 625 Data Processing and Analysis
EDUC 680 Evaluation of Policies, Programs, and Projects
EDUC 683 Survey Methods and Design
EDUC 684 Measurement and Assessment
EDUC 767 Regression and Analysis of Variance
EDUC 768 Measurement Theory and Test Construction
EDUC 829 Policy Research Seminar

To view GSE course offerings, click here.

 

Master of Philosophy in Education (M.Phil.Ed.)

The M.Phil.Ed. in PREM is designed for professionals who have already earned a relevant master's degree and wish to advance their mastery of scale development and assessment, design of randomized field trials and experiments, multivariate statistical analysis, and the production of high-quality evidence for decision-making in public and organizational policy. Emphasis is placed on mentored research. This is a six-course-unit

(minimum) program with a required comprehensive examination and an empirical research project.

Courses include:

EDUC 771 Factor Analysis and Scale Development
EDUC 829 Policy Research Seminar
EDUC 871 Randomized Trials and Experiments
EDUC 880 Complex, Multilevel, and Longitudinal Research Models
EDUC 881 Applied Multivariate Statistics

To view GSE course offerings, click here.

 

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. in PREM requires a minimum of 20 course units. The program includes the curriculum for the SMART master's degree described above. Students who apply directly to doctoral-level study following a baccalaureate degree will enroll in the core courses described for SMART M.S. degree. In addition to the more advanced courses listed below, doctoral degree students will develop an individually designed curriculum in consultation with the faculty advisor. This will include the development of an independent empirical research project.

Advanced Courses include:

EDUC 771 Factor Analysis and Scale Development
EDUC 829 Policy Research Seminar
EDUC 871 Randomized Trials and Experiments
EDUC 880 Complex, Multilevel, and Longitudinal Research Models
EDUC 881 Applied Multivariate Statistics

To view GSE course offerings, click here.

 

Program Faculty

Erling E. Boe, Ph.D., Washington State University
Robert F. Boruch, Ph.D., Iowa State University
John W. Fantuzzo, Ph.D., Fuller Graduate School of Psychology
Paul Austin McDermott, Jr., Ph.D., Temple University
Andrew C. Porter, Ph.D., University of Wisconsin

For More Information

Karen Carter, Coordinator
Policy, Measurement, and Evaluation Division
Graduate School of Education
3700 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-6216
(215) 898-2444
pme@gse.upenn.edu