Preparing future leaders to drive change in education policy and reform.
The M.S.Ed. in Education Policy offers comprehensive coursework and research training in the study of education, reform, and policy for individuals interested in careers in school districts, state and federal departments of education, education policy research institutes, and education-related non-profit organizations.
Program Details
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Fall Entry Term
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Full- or Part-Time Enrollment Format
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9–24 Months* Duration
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On Campus Modality
Overview
The M.S.Ed. in Education Policy equips students with research expertise across various inquiry methods, allowing them to explore education at all levels, from PreK through higher education. The program takes a multi-disciplinary approach, examining educational challenges through lenses such as economics, history, public policy, philosophy, and sociology. By focusing on issues at local, state, national, and international levels, students are prepared to tackle the pressing problems facing education policy and reform.
Students must complete the Education Policy Research Practicum during the Spring semester in order to complete the degree.
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Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Financial Aid
Education Policy, M.S.Ed. Virtual Information Session
Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree Program Information Session
Education Policy, M.S.Ed. Virtual Information Session
Education Policy, M.S.Ed. Virtual Information Session
Admissions Events
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Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM EDT | Location: On Campus
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Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT | Location: Online
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Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM EDT | Location: On Campus
Curriculum
The Education Policy, M.S.Ed. program consists of 10 course units along with the successful completion of the Education Policy Research Practicum. As part of these 10 courses, you select 2 electives that allow you to tailor the program of study towards your own specific interests and goals.
For information about courses and requirements, visit the Education Policy, M.S.Ed. program in the University Catalog.
Dual-Degree Options
The Education Policy, M.S.Ed. program also offers the following dual-degree options:
- Fels Institute of Government Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)/M.S.Ed.
- Wharton Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)/M.S.Ed.
- Penn Carey Law Juris Doctor (J.D.)/M.S.Ed.
Do you have questions about the plan of study?
We are here to help! Contact a program representative by email at admissions@gse.upenn.edu.
Education policymakers and practitioners increasingly rely on research to inform federal, state, and local decision-making. With the widespread availability of educational data, there is a growing need for the timely generation of research evidence to support the ongoing work of policymakers and practitioners. The Education Policy Research Practicum is designed to develop an understanding of how educational researchers partner with educational leaders to impact policy.
Through the Practicum, you'll develop valuable skills to partners in policy and practice like empirical analyses, creating policy reports, and delivering presentations. Through the development of these skills, you will be positioned to complete the Practicum with immediate and actionable guidance around how research can inform program implementation, schooling practice, and other key educational issues.
The Practicum offers flexible formats to fit your interests and career goals, including focusing on case study style learning, engaging in the classroom through a large swath of real-world examples and analysis, working in teams and partner with a local school district, or engaging in real-time research to prepare for Ph.D. studies. Each option is designed to teach critical skills tailored to your needs.
In addition to the Education Policy Research Practicum and program coursework, many master’s students pursue extra opportunities to build applied research and policy analysis skills. Each year, a number of students collaborate with faculty or research centers at Penn GSE, such as the Consortium for Policy Research in Education, the Center for Standards, Alignment, Instruction and Learning, and the Institute for Research on Higher Education.
Other students gain valuable experience through off-campus internships and research roles. Recent students have worked with organizations like the School District of Philadelphia, the Mayor's Office for Education, the Philadelphia Education Fund, Research for Action, and KIPP.
| Full-Time 2/4/4 Option: 10 Months | |
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| Summer II Semester | 2 courses (Penn Law, Fels Institute of Government, and the Wharton School) |
| Fall Semester | 4 courses |
| Spring Semester | 4 courses |
| Full-Time 5/5 Option: 9 Months | |
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| Fall Semester | 5 courses |
| Spring Semester | 5 courses |
| Part-Time: Approximately 2 Years | |
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| Each Semester | 1-2 courses |
In Their Own Words
“One of the most memorable aspects of my academic journey has been the opportunity to translate what I learn in the classroom into real-world contexts. In my Public Economics course, for example, we examine how economic theories and frameworks come to life through case studies and contemporary policy challenges. Seeing the connection between theory and practice has been especially enlightening and has deepened my understanding of how academic knowledge can inform meaningful policy solutions.”
Cristopher Espino
Current Student and Education Policy Graduate Assistant
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared to take leading roles in school districts, federal and state education departments, education policy research institutes, and education-related non-profit organizations. Many graduates continue their studies in prestigious doctoral programs.
Alumni Careers:
- Associate, Education Strategy Group
- Associate Director of Social Justice, College Board
- Director of K-12 Policy, Public Citizens for Children & Youth
- Doctoral Student, Penn GSE
- Education Policy Researcher, Council of the Great City Schools
- Executive Director, Institute for Recruitment of Teachers
- Management and Program Analyst, U.S. Department of Education
- Policy Analyst, RAND Corporation
- Program Manager, School District of Philadelphia
- Research Analyst, NORC at the University of Chicago
- Senior Policy Analyst, EdBuild
Apply Now
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
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Do you have questions about the application, financial aid, or requirements? We're happy to help!
