The innovative Education Policy Graduate Certificate is designed to meet the needs of students with an interest in improving educational opportunities and student outcomes through federal, state, and local policy. The 15-credit program focuses on the study of education policy, including how decisions are made at various levels of government, how decision makers use educational research and evidence, and how to influence the decision-making process. Open to all students, regardless of their experience level, the program examines pressing challenges facing our education system, from preschool and K-12 through college and beyond, and prepares students to engage effectively with policymakers and stakeholders and to help shape and influence education policy.

The field of education policy needs professionals who can understand and analyze problems, think critically, and come up with creative and pragmatic solutions to address tough challenges in the world of education. Whether interested in pursuing a career in government, the education sector, think tanks, or nonprofit organizations, the Education Policy Graduate Certificate is meant to set students on the path to impacting education policy.

Policies

For policies governing all graduate certificates, see AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates.

Banner Code: E1-CERG-EPOL

Certificate Requirements

Total Credits: 15

This certificate may be pursued on a part-time basis only.

Coursework

EDPO 600History of Education Reform3
or EDPO 885 History of Education in the United States
EDPO 601P-12 Policy Challenges3
or EDPO 870 Education Policy: Process, Context, and Politics
EDPO 602Higher Education Policy3
EDPO 603Conflict and Consensus: Education, Interest Groups and Advocacy3
or EDPO 886 School Reform in the United States: Politics and Policies
EDPO 604Education Policy Implementation3
Total Credits15

Note: Students may substitute other CEHD 800-level graduate courses upon approval by the education policy program director and course instructor.