Berkeley School of Education

Ma and phd programs, about our ma and phd.

Earning a Master’s of Arts degree (MA) or doctorate (PhD) from Berkeley’s School of Education often leads to a career as an educational scholar and researcher in schools, colleges, and universities; non-profits and think tanks; and corporations.

In your application, we encourage you to describe your research interests as well as your desire to study with particular faculty in their application materials. If you wish to study educational topics outside those framed in the list below, we still encourage you to apply to earn your MA or PhD because we want innovative thinkers among us.

During the first semester, all students build a plan of study in consultation with their advisor(s). This plan is revisited, updated, and revised yearly thereafter.

What Doctoral Students Can Expect

During the first two years of study, the Berkeley PhD in Education introduces you to research on current issues in education, theories of learning, human development, and inequality, educational policy, and research methods. Students proceed through the program during the first two years in a cohort, taking core courses together.

The degree program’s structure ensures that you have a broad understanding of important topics in education and that you begin developing the research expertise needed to carry out independent research projects. You will also begin to take elective courses within and outside the BSE in your expected areas of expertise.

By the third and fourth years of study, you are expected to develop greater expertise in your research specialties in close consultation with your faculty advisors. You also take advanced seminars; engage in independent studies and research apprenticeships; and complete an oral exam.

The concluding part of your doctoral studies is preparation of your dissertation proposal and the research and writing of your dissertation.

What Master's Students Can Expect

As a Master’s student, you join the Berkeley community for one academic year, affiliating with a cluster of specialization. MA students often complete courses and their Masters projects during the summer. You are required to complete 24 semester units, which equals seven to eight classes, depending on how many units are awarded for each class.

You will have access to your faculty advisors, an MA Coordinator, and Student Services staff within the School of Education.

Learn more about the core requirements for earning a Master's in Education .

Our faculty’s interests span a range of critical topics and issues that are crucial for the attainment of educational equity and greater impact in schools and communities. The broad clusters of our faculty’s expertise are listed below. Click on any of the titles to see faculty who are engaged in this research.

Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender

  • Critical Social and Cultural Theories
  • Globalization, Immigration, and Migration
  • Race & Social Inequality in Urban Education
  • Domination and Resistance across Educational Settings
  • Social Identities in Educational Contexts
  • Language, Literacy, and Digital Media

Language, Literacy, and Culture

  • Sociocultural aspects of language use and development across the lifespan
  • Linguistic and cultural diversity in language and literacy education
  • Intersections of disability and language and literacy learning
  • Race and inequality in language and literacy education
  • Bi/multilingualism and translanguaging in schools and communities
  • Indigenous language maintenance and education in local and global contexts
  • Literacy in a Digital Age
  • Literacy in and out of School

Learning Sciences and Human Development

  • Cognitive, Human, and Social Development 
  • Mathematics and Science Education
  • Teacher Learning and Education
  • Technology and Digital Media

Policy, Politics, and Leadership

  • Leadership in Educational Organizations
  • Policy Analysis and Program Implementation
  • Politics of Education Advocacy
  • School Improvement

Social Research Methodologies

  • Data Science
  • Design-Based Research
  • Measurement
  • Qualitative Research Methods
  • Statistics and Econometrics

School Psychology

    •     Program Aims and Training Goals     •     Faculty     •     Sequence     •     How to Apply     •     Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data     •     Student Handbook     •     Publications and Presentations     •     School Psychology-Resources

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Advance your education in an edd program at bu wheelock.

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The Doctor of Education (EdD) at Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development is a post-master’s program that combines rigorous academic coursework and practical, field-based experiences.  The EdD is designed specifically for students who seek an advanced degree to support their work as practitioners in PK–12 and other educational settings.  The focus is on preparing leaders to take on important challenges in the profession, in the everyday life of schools and communities.

EdD Degree Overview

Students in BU Wheelock’s EdD program will study education leadership and policy in a sequenced set of courses that develop the key knowledge and skills that graduates will need in order to make a real difference in the lives of children, educators and families.  Utilizing scaffolded instruction in research methodology, doctoral students will also complete a dissertation that examines a problem of practice drawn from the current education landscape.

What Is a Doctor of Education Degree?

A Doctor of Education degree is a graduate program that prepares master’s degree holders for advanced positions in the field of education. The rigorous curriculum of an EdD program has students working hands-on in research and teaching positions. The Boston University EdD program allows students to complete six semester-long apprenticeships where they will work alongside BU Wheelock faculty experts. 

How Long Is a Doctor of Education Program?

The doctor of education program at BU Wheelock includes 14 core courses and three Leadership Seminars.  Coursework for the program takes place in a two-week summer institute as well as on eight weekends (Friday/Saturday) throughout the academic year.  This part-time, executive education format allows students to maintain their regular full-time jobs as they pursue their degree.  Most students complete the program in three years; work on the dissertation may extend this period for some students.  New cohorts are admitted every other calendar year.

What Can You Do with an EdD Degree?

The EdD supports graduates in attaining leadership positions in practice, including in education settings such as schools and districts, charter and independent schools, and other community-based or nonprofit settings.  Employers view an EdD degree as a sign that an individual has worked hard to gain experience and expertise in the field.

Degree holders may hold positions such as superintendent (or assistant superintendent) of schools, principal, assistant principal, dean, head of school, program director, department chair,  curriculum leader, DEI administrator, etc.  Students who seek administrative licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) can participate in a BU-sponsored practicum that meets state requirements for certification.

Is a Doctor of Education Worth It?

In a word, yes.  A BU Wheelock EdD will allow you to compete for the highest level leadership positions in the profession.  The return on investment is real—both in terms of the impact graduates make in the field as well as the salaries they are able to earn in advanced administrative positions in educational and other organizational settings.

Discover the EdD Program at BU Wheelock

  • EdD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies

Learn more about the EdD Program

Gain expertise and experience in your field through comprehensive coursework and research opportunities. Learn more about the EdD at Boston University Wheelock College of Education by requesting more information .

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The Lynch School of Education and Human Development is committed to conducting inventive research—work that informs solutions to complex social problems and promotes the common good. As an R1 university, the Lynch School’s world-renowned faculty and expansive initiatives improve communities and influence local, national, and international education and policy. Our doctoral students put their analysis into action, while faculty members help guide students’ growth as critical thinkers, reflective leaders, and engaged citizens.

The Lynch School has five departments:

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Master’s Programs in Education

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  • Download the Master's Viewbook

As you embrace the next chapter in your development as an educator, innovator, and leader, consider a graduate program that builds on a century of innovation, that’s grounded in the skills every educator needs, and that fully supports your current work and future aspirations.

At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, our master’s degree program is driven by passion and empowered by evidence. We share a vision of education where every learner has an opportunity to be seen, to be challenged, to excel, and to reach their full potential. We are motivated by urgency to build a future that recognizes and overcomes grinding systemic inequities.

Whether you seek to make an impact in early education, in K–12 districts and networks, or in higher education — or whether you want to drive educational change outside of those realms — you belong at HGSE. 

No matter which program you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with HGSE’s world-class faculty, build a sustained community of practice and a lifelong professional network, and gain the preparation necessary to grow, advance, and become the type of leader that education needs.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education offers the Master's in Education (Ed.M.) degree in two formats —  residential and online — and in a variety of programs.

Residential Master's

HGSE’s  on-campus master’s degree is a one-year, full-time, immersive Harvard experience. You'll apply directly to one of its five distinct programs, spanning education leadership and entrepreneurship, education policy, human development, teaching and teacher leadership, and learning design and technology. 

Online Master's

Our Online Master's in Education  is a part-time, two-year, online program in education leadership. It is designed for experienced professionals who want to advance in their careers and deepen their impact. The online program in education leadership offers a choice of two pathways, preK–12 or higher education, that complement your career and chosen area of impact.  

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Education Degree

Doctorate in Education Degrees in Massachusetts

If you want to pursue the top positions in the field of education, earning your EdD or Doctorate in Education is a critical step in the right direction. With your EdD you can develop into a leader that has a significant impact in your organization’s performance and ability to inspire students. EducationDegree.com is your way to find the information you need to choose the right doctorate in education program. Continue reading to learn more about earning your EdD in Massachusetts. And contact our featured programs to learn more!

PhD Programs in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has excellent universities that offer programs for students who would like to get their doctorate in education, and they are typically 36 months long. There are a wide variety of fields offered in education, which focus the necessary skills to perform in a leadership position and to develop new skills in statistical and data analysis. The opportunity to be published in an academic journal while working with a faculty member is also feasible. A doctorate in education prepares the leaders of tomorrow’s educational systems to conduct original research, focus on the study of policies of education, to become professors in universities and lead the transformation urban schools.

The doctorate programs for education include:

  • Leadership and Policy Studies
  • Higher Education Leadership
  • International Education Policy and Management
  • Education/Higher Education Administration
  • Educational Administration
  • Educational Leadership

More than 75 percent of Johnson and Wales University doctoral students have advanced to leadership positions. This university utilizes the Cohort Model, which addresses the challenges of education as a team.

Starting in 2010, Harvard began offering a tuition free three year program in education leadership with the goal of preparing leaders to be able to guide an environment that is rapidly changing. The third year will be spent as a resident in the urban public schools of New York, Atlanta and Denver.

Vanderbilt Peabody College also has a unique educational style that takes 36 months to complete utilizing a weekend program. It blends practice and theory that centers on the problems of educational practice and policy.

Career Outlook for Graduates in Massachusetts

The difference between a Doctor of Education degree (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) is the Doctor of Philosophy is more theoretical and research based. The EdD tends to be more project based, so the available employment opportunities are more scholastic, administrative or involving research in education with public or private organizations. Certainly this degree presents better job opportunities. Starting salaries can range from $60,000 to $70,000.

Massachusetts, like so many other states, cannot fill their faculty positions in science and math. There are some other excellent job opportunities. For instance, Boston University is seeking a candidate to be the Chair of the Department of Epidemiology. Boston University receives $4.56 million annually in research awards and are currently conducting research on infectious diseases.

Northwestern University in Boston is seeking an Associate/Full Professor, and there is a Dean of the College of Education position that reports directly to the Provost. This type of position can pay $107,294 up to $137,557, depending on qualifications and past experience. A Director position is also available at Wheelock College at the Boston campus. The Director is the chief executive at Wheelock, which is a college that prepares international students wishing to enroll in American colleges.

There are also many positions available in universities, which are non-teaching positions. These include administrative positions and those in the areas of research.

To advance in the field of education, review our featured programs request information from the doctorate in education programs that interest you. We recommend contacting multiple schools to be sure you make the best decision!

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SEARCH YOUR STATE

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Education MA

The Berkeley School of Education (BSE) prepares leaders in education practice, policy, and research. BSE faculty members support a vision of public education that promotes equity and social justice by empowering practitioners to meet the highest standards of engagement and enrichment in classrooms, schools, communities, and districts. Through this commitment, the Berkeley School of Education supports cutting-edge research and positive social transformation in education. The faculty and students at the Berkeley School of Education develop projects and strategies in interdisciplinary scholarship and field studies that positively impact educational outcomes at the state, national, and international levels.

The Berkeley School of Education offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Master's of Arts (MA), and credential degree programs as well as an Education major and minor for undergraduate students.

PhD and Master's Programs at the Berkeley School of Education

Students collaborate in dynamic learning environment that develops expertise in areas including:

Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender

Learning Sciences and Human Development

Policy, Politics, and Leadership

Social Research Methodologies

Leadership and Excellence in K-12

Students develop professional leadership skills and explore new opportunities in pedagogy, curricula, and policy. Innovations in teaching and leadership in the classroom prepare students for influential administrative roles - e.g. for principals, district and system-wide administrators, and policy influencers.

Learn more about the Berkeley School of Education's Professional Programs .

Additional Programs

Graduate Group in Science and Mathematics Education (SESAME) SESAME is the Berkeley School of Education's interdisciplinary graduate program for students who seek advanced expertise in a scientific discipline. SESAME students earn a doctoral degree by researching the educational theories and research methodologies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

Intersection of Sport and Education In the Intersection of Sport and Education program students research facets of institutionalized sports that complements and conflict with the educational missions of American secondary and post-secondary schools.

School Psychology The Berkeley School of Education's School Psychology program brings together psychology professionals, teachers, and educational leaders to clarify and resolve problems regarding the educational and mental health needs of children in classrooms.

Special Education (Joint Doctoral Program with San Francisco State University) The Special Education Joint Doctoral program prepares leaders in research, teaching, administration, and supervision to address the professional needs facing children, youth, and adults with disabilities. By combining the resources of both Berkeley and SFSU, students pursue theoretical interests and applied practices in a broad spectrum of specializations within Special Education.

Leaders for Equity and Democracy (LEAD) Berkeleys educational doctorate (EdD) is a three year program that engages passionate, equity-conscious leaders who apply practice, theory, and research design to develop excellence and integrity in education. Using guiding principles, operational efficiencies, and professional networks, LEAD doctoral students influence all-encompassing change and innovation in education.

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Berkeley, CA 94720

At a Glance

Department(s)

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Application Deadline

December 4, 2023

Degree Type(s)

Masters / Professional

Degree Awarded

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UMass Boston

phd programs in education massachusetts

  • Higher Education EdD / PhD

Developing scholar-practitioners who can bring about changes in colleges and universities to advance equity and racial justice.

The mission of the Higher Education Program (EdD/PhD) at UMass Boston is to develop scholar-practitioners who can, through their research, leadership, and educational practice, bring about changes in colleges and universities to advance equity and racial justice.

The Higher Education Program focuses on issues of concern to leaders in all types of higher education institutions, including community colleges and four-year institutions, both public and private. The curriculum covers topics such as organization and leadership, teaching and learning, college student development, diversity, public policy, institutional change, college access, equity, globalization, finance, and community engagement. Students also develop a strong foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as an understanding of the social and historical foundations of higher education.

Why Apply to UMass Boston's Higher Education EdD/PhD Program?

Founded in 1993, the Higher Education Program is one of the largest doctoral programs at UMass Boston. Six Higher Education scholars serve as full-time faculty in the program.

The Higher Education Program has an excellent track-record of graduating doctoral students and fostering their professional advancement. Here are a few highlights, based on our latest program review:

Retention and Degree Completion

  • 87% retention and degree completion rate (the national average is 50%)
  • 92% retention and degree completion rate for students of color
  • 90% retention and degree completion rate for women

Professional Advancement

  • 67% of students report they have been promoted at least once since joining the program
  • 69% report they have been promoted at least once since earning their degree
  • Students and alumni attribute these promotions to the knowledge and skills they gained in the program

Research Accomplishments of Program Graduates

  • 57% have presented their dissertation research at academic conferences
  • 55% have published at least one peer-reviewed journal article or book chapter

Start Your Application

Plan Your Education

Cohort model.

Each year, the program admits a cohort of between 10 to 12 students who take courses together throughout their program of study. The cohort model fosters collaborative approaches to learning, exploration, development, and problem solving. Through cohort development, students build strong peer-to-peer relationships that cultivate a vibrant learning environment founded in meaningful connection, active engagement, and a commitment to individual and group development. In the classroom, the cohort model fosters a learning environment in which students can establish meaningful connections to theory, research, and practice.

How to Apply

Applicants must meet general graduate admission requirements in addition to the following program-specific requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution of recognized standing or an international equivalent at the time of enrollment
  • A minimum, cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or international equivalent) in all undergraduate work
  • A master's degree or the equivalent from a college or university of recognized standing
  • Official transcripts for all institutions where you have earned more than 6 credits; if your transcript is in a language other than English, please include an English translation, validated by an official public translator
  • Résumé or curriculum vitae
  • Essay Applicants are asked to write an essay that addresses four areas: practice, preparation, leadership, and anticipated contributions to cohort-based learning. This essay should be approximately 2,000 words in length. Be sure to address the following areas:
  • Reflect on your practice in higher education and how that practice relates to larger higher education issues.
  • Reflect on your capabilities for leadership in higher education.
  • Reflect on your preparation for doctoral-level work.
  • Reflect on what you will contribute to the Higher Education Doctoral Program and what you will gain from it.
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation Recommenders should have worked closely with the applicant in an academic, professional, or community service setting. Letters should not be written by friends or family members of the applicant and should focus on the applicant’s abilities and past academic performance. The letters should also assess the applicant’s level of motivation for and commitment to a leadership role in higher education. Former professors familiar with the applicant’s academic abilities could address the applicant’s capacity to perform graduate-level work. Supervisors or colleagues at the current place of employment could describe and give evidence of the applicant’s potential as an initiator and implementer of organizational change.
  • Employer Agreement Form The Employer Agreement Form shows year-by-year how the applicant and their employer will arrange the applicant’s work schedule to permit the applicant to meet the program’s requirements. These include three June sessions and a full weekday (Friday) on campus each week during the semesters leading up to the dissertation seminars. Please upload the Employer Agreement Form to the Documents section in the GradCAS application.
  • If applicable, request official TOEFL, IELTS, PTE and Duolingo scores to be sent to the University of Massachusetts Boston

All application materials should be sent directly to Graduate Admissions/GradCAS application. Do not send the materials to the Leadership in Education department office. Materials must be sent directly to admissions in order to be processed.

The admissions committee will interview all finalists before making its recommendations for acceptance into the program.

Deadlines & Cost

Deadlines: February 1 for summer

Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee is $75. UMass Boston alumni and current students that plan to complete degree requirements prior to graduate enrollment can submit the application without paying the application fee.

Program Cost Information: Bursar's website

Curriculum - Higher Education EdD

Core courses (21 credits).

  • HIGHED 601 - Educational Leadership Skills 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 610 - Administration and Governance in Higher Education 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 611 - Access and Equity in Higher Education 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 612 - Research on Students 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 620 - Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum in Urban Contexts 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 632 - Organization and Leadership in Educational Institutions 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 634 - Public Policy Issues in Higher Education 3 Credit(s)

Research Courses (15 Credits)

Please take the four classes below and an additional advanced research methods class chosen in consultation with your pre-dissertation advisor or dissertation committee chair.

  • HIGHED 751 - Research Methods in Higher Education: Quantitative Analysis 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 752 - Research Methods in Higher Education: Qualitative Analysis 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 753 - Research Design in Higher Education 3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 793 - Research Seminar on the Qualifying Paper 3 Credit(s)

Electives (3 Credits)

Complete one additional course chosen in consultation with your pre-dissertation advisor or dissertation committee chair.

Dissertation Seminars (6 Credits)

  • HIGHED 891 - Dissertation Seminar 2-3 Credit(s)
  • HIGHED 892 - Dissertation Seminar 3 Credit(s)

Dissertation Research (6 Credits)

  • HIGHED 899 - Dissertation Research 3 Credit(s)

Curriculum - Higher Education PhD

Research courses (18 credits).

Complete the four courses below and two advanced research methods courses chosen in consultation with your pre-dissertation advisor or dissertation committee chair.

Electives (9 Credits)

Complete three courses chosen in consultation with your pre-dissertation advisor or dissertation committee chair.

  • HIGHED 899 - Dissertation Research  3   Credit(s)

Graduation Criteria

Higher education edd.

Complete 51 credits from 17 courses including eight core courses, five research courses, one elective, two dissertation seminars, and six credits of dissertation research.

Doctoral candidacy: Completion of a qualifying paper. Dissertation: Compose and defend a dissertation based on original research. Independent study: Students can enroll in up to four independent studies (3 credit hours each).

Transfer courses: Students can transfer a total of 12 credits: 6 from prior or concurrent coursework at other institutions and 6 from prior coursework at UMass Boston. No transfer coursework from other institutions or UMass Boston taken more than seven years before admission to the program will be accepted.

Statute of limitations: Seven years.

Higher Education PhD

Complete 60 credits from 20 courses including seven core courses, six research courses, three electives, two dissertation seminars, and six credits of dissertation research.

Doctoral candidacy: Completion of a qualifying paper. Dissertation: Compose and defend a dissertation based on original research Independent study: Students can enroll in up to four independent studies (3 credit hours each).

Transfer coursework: Students can transfer a total of 12 credits: 6 from prior or concurrent coursework at other institutions and 6 from prior coursework at UMass Boston. No transfer coursework from other institutions or UMass Boston taken more than seven years before admission to the program will be accepted.

Student Outcomes

Student success.

The success of our program is measured by the success of our students. The program review team highlighted the following: “the retention and graduation rate [of the Higher Education Doctoral Program] is well above national averages for all students and students of color, at 87.1% and 91.1%, respectively.

Students described how their participation in the program was already contributing to their professional advancement. Two-thirds of student survey respondents (34 of 51, 66.7%) indicated that they have received a job promotion since starting the program. In fact, 9 students (17.6%) reported that they have received two or more job promotions since starting the program. Furthermore, 75.6% of student survey respondents indicated that they have taken on increasing levels of responsibility in their job, since starting the program. The students attributed their job promotions and new responsibilities to the knowledge and skills that they gained in the program:

“My most recent promotion is directly attributable to the knowledge and skills that I have developed in the program. Specifically, the knowledge I gained about student success, university policy, and finances were key factors in my job interview and that led to this promotional opportunity.”

Educating Scholar-Practitioners

Students noted that the curriculum is relevant to their work as a practitioner. A total of 61.5% of student survey respondents strongly agreed with the statement that “the content in the program's required courses is relevant to my work as a higher education practitioner,” and 35.9% agreed with that statement. Only one student disagreed (fall 2016 survey). The survey of recent alumni demonstrated a similar level of agreement for this item: 58.3% strongly agree and 41.7% agree (fall 2016 survey).

Survey results showed that students find the curriculum to be highly relevant to higher education as a field of study. Current students noted that the program’s courses have enhanced their understanding of research and theory in the field of higher education; 77.5% strongly agreed and 22.5% agreed (fall 2016 survey).

The program is distinguished by five defining characteristics:

  • The program serves experienced professionals who are committed to strengthening and expanding their capacities for leadership to advance equity and racial justice in higher education.
  • The program contributes to increasing the racial and gender diversity of leaders in higher education and promotes critically conscious, equity-minded, and asset-based approaches to leadership.
  • The program is structured through a cohort model, with cohorts comprised of students from a range of identities and experiences, who enter the program at the same time and take a series of courses together. The knowledge contributed and developed by cohort members serves as an important learning resource as students move forward through the coursework.
  • The program prepares scholar-practitioners as educational leaders who can contribute to organizational change for equity and racial justice in higher education.
  • The program emphasizes the development of equity-minded scholar-practitioners who can apply research and theory to issues of policy and practice, as well as contribute new knowledge to the field of higher education through their own research.

Graduate Program Director Jay Dee jay.dee [at] umb.edu (617) 287-7694

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Leadership in Education

Learn more about UMass Boston's Leadership in Education department, our research, and our faculty.

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College of Education & Human Development

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EdDPrograms.org

Ed.D. Programs in Massachusetts

The road to a doctoral education degree in Massachusetts is paved with challenges. Our practical Ed.D. guide can help you avoid the potholes! In addition to school listings (with links to curricula & tuition costs), you'll discover a comparison of online Ed.D. programs, info about Ed.D. discounts & fellowships, and a rundown of ESE licensure requirements. There's even an extensive career & networking section, so you can head into your first job interview with all the facts at hand.

Earning a Doctor of Education Degree in Massachusetts

Massachusetts doesn’t have the largest amount of Ed.D. programs in the country—but what it does have is variety. In our school listings , you’ll see options for STEM leaders, urban educators, language & literacy experts, professional counselors, superintendent licensure candidates, and more. Harvard’s Graduate School of Education has an outstanding national ranking , but Boston College isn’t far behind.

To help you whittle these options down to a manageable shortlist, we’ve done some research. Interested in distance learning? Check out our assessment of online Ed.D. programs . Looking for an Ed.D. that will lead you to Administrator Licensure ? Learn why Boston College matches up for superintendents. Searching for the best Ed.D. fellowships? Browse through our school-by-school section on Internal Funding .

Or you can skip ahead to the extensive Career section. In addition to data on Massachusetts employment levels & administrative salaries, we’ve amassed links to useful MA job boards, info about important state associations (e.g. MASS, MSAA, etc.), and ideas for conferences & professional development programs (e.g. NSIP).

Online Doctor of Education Programs in Massachusetts

Online ed.d. providers in massachusetts, bay path university, boston college, boston university, northeastern university, regis college.

  • University of Massachusetts – Lowell

What to Know About Massachusetts Online Ed.D. Programs

You’ve got a number of sturdy choices for online doctorates in education in Massachusetts: one public school (UMass Lowell) and all kinds of private options (Northeastern, Regis, BC, BU, and Bay Path). UMass Lowell, Regis, and Northeastern—plus the on-campus program at Boston College—are taking part in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) . This is a quality marker we like to see.

Thanks to state funding and a streamlined calendar, UMass Lowell is going to be your cheapest option; private schools will be pricier. Keep in mind, too, that MA online Ed.D. programs include occasional on-campus residencies or Saturday classes. So you’ll need to allow for time & travel in the budget.

Note: For more options, see our overview of online Doctor of Education programs . This contains rankings of the 23 best online Ed.D. programs, a full listing of all schools offering online Ed.D. programs, and additional advice.

Online Ed.D. Programs at Massachusetts Public Universities

UMass Lowell’s 42-credit Online Ed.D. in Leadership in Schooling has a lot going for it. It’s part of a school that often earns a top 20 ranking in Best Online Graduate Education Programs . It’s eligible for fellowships and tuition discounts (see our Funding section). And it’s an affordable full-time program for the PreK-12 field—there’s even a STEM Education option if your interested in leading a STEM department or program.

We should also point out that it includes an annual one-week summer residency and does not lead to licensure. Think of it more as a way to expand your instructional leadership horizons—UMass Lowell is looking for Ed.D. candidates with at least three years experience as a teacher and/or instructional leader.

Online Ed.D. Programs at Massachusetts Private Universities

Multiple ed.d. specialties.

Looking for an online option from a CPED member? Northeastern has developed a 60-credit Online Doctor of Education with concentrations in Higher Education Administration; Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Leadership; and Organizational Leadership Studies. It takes around 3-4 years to complete and includes two residencies in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle. This is a program that can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis.

PreK-12 Leadership

If you live in New England, you could also consider Boston University’s 60-credit Hybrid Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies: Leadership in Early Childhood Education-Grade 12 . This cohort-based doctoral program involves monthly campus visits in the spring & fall semesters and two-week institutes in the summer. It takes 3 years to complete on a part-time basis.

Higher Education Leadership

Aiming for a college or university position? Check out Regis’s 51-credit Hybrid Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership . As the name suggests, this program is for folks who live in the area—students meet on Saturdays four times per semester. All of Regis’s Ed.D. students work full-time while completing this degree; some finish in as little as 3 years.

You can compare it with Bay Path University’s 54-credit Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies , which is also available in a 30-credit ABD Option . This flexible program contains 100% online coursework and three “Immersive Weekends” (one per year). Collaboration is encouraged—you’ll take part in online, faculty-guided cohorts called Communities of Practice (COPs) and be able to participate in group work, Leader-Scholar Communities, and shared workplace research.

Or you could consider Boston College’s Online Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education with an option to concentrate in Catholic Higher Education. This is a part-time, 3-year program for experienced administrators—candidates must have a minimum of 5-10 years of experience in higher education. You’ll take part in online coursework during the academic year and attend in-person week-long residencies in the summer.

No Dissertation Ed.D. Programs in Massachusetts

Doctoral research projects & capstones.

When you’re looking at our MA listings , you’ll notice that a number of Ed.D. programs include a “Dissertation in Practice” (DiP) or capstone. We favor universities who have adopted these models, since they give seasoned administrators a chance to apply their research and skills to an immediate educational challenge. For example:

  • In Northeastern’s Doctor of Education (either in Charlotte , Seattle , or Online ), students work on identifying a problem of practice and developing an action plan at the very start of their program. A faculty advisor is there to mentor and advise as Ed.D. students initiate cycles of data collection and analysis, collaborate with stakeholders, and reflect on their progress.
  • Bay Path University’s Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies has a DiP that includes a series of four sequential dissertation courses that will engage you in action research. You’ll choose an educational problem to analyze, develop an improvement plan, act to implement the plan, observe the effects, and then reflect on results as a basis for further efforts.
  • Boston College’s Online Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education —with an option to concentrate in Catholic Higher Education—culminates in a group-based capstone project that takes place at a partner institution. In collaboration with your fellow Ed.D. students, you’ll tackle pressing questions & challenges facing that higher education organization. BC will help your group find an institution that aligns with your interests.
  • Boston University’s Hybrid Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies: Leadership in Early Childhood Education-Grade 12 contains a group-based Dissertation in Practice (DiP). In the final years of the program, your team will be challenged to address problems of practice that are specific to your own schools and districts.
  • In Regis’s Hybrid Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership , students are asked to take an in-depth look at a critical issue in higher education, research the challenge, and find ways to create positive change. A primary advisor provides guidance. Examples of past dissertation in practice projects have included “Developing Partnerships: Strengthening Parent Engagement in a Title I School,” “An Investigation of the Relationships Among Life Experiences and Resilience With First-Year College Students,” and “A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of Training for Social Workers and Health Care Providers in Managing Challenging or Potentially Violent Client Behaviors.”

Doctoral Education Funding in Massachusetts

Internal scholarships, fellowships & awards.

Massachusetts universities often hide funding information for doctoral students. To save you time, we’ve tried to source every single website that may be of use (e.g. tuition breaks, internal fellowships, assistantships, etc.). If you’re interested in external awards, grants, and loans, the Office of Financial Assistance is the place to go.

American International College

AIC’s section on Types of Financial Aid only lists external opportunities—AIC does not offer merit-based scholarships for graduate students. However, the college does have a Monthly Payment Plan and a limited number of graduate assistantships are available.

Financial Aid is available for online Ed.D. students. Most of this will be in the usual form of graduate loans and grants. Bay Path scholarships are reserved for MS students. Military families should check out the section on Military Benefits & Services .

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development has a separate section on Graduate Tuition & Financial Aid , with details on scholarships (i.e. merit-based awards), assistantships, and federal aid. Named scholarships are for master’s students. You may also want to take a look at the general advice given in Graduate Financial Aid .

BU’s Ed.D. programs are run by the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development. Wheelock has an entire section devoted to Financial Assistance , with a rundown of:

  • Scholarships & Fellowships
  • Grants, Loans & Work Study
  • Graduate Assistantship Positions

And more. Be sure to check out the sub-section on Doctoral Fellowships —there are some excellent awards that are aimed at Ed.D. students.

Endicott College

The college’s Ed.D. programs are part of the Van Loan School, so doctoral students are advised to contact the Assistant Director of Financial Aid with any questions on the financial aid process. Endicott also has an interest-free monthly Tuition Payment Plan .

Harvard University

On the Ed.D.L. program page, it states that all students receive a full tuition & student health fee funding package, plus stipends, work opportunities, and a paid third-year residency at a partner organization. Harvard is a well-endowed school, so we’ll believe this incredible deal. Learn more on the Ed.D.L. Applicants page.

If you need extra funding (e.g. for family expenses), the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) has a comprehensive section on Financial Aid , with sub-sections on Fellowships & Grants , Student Work , and external student loans. Be sure to check out the Saul Zaentz Fellowship for Ed.D.L. students in the section on Merit-Based Grant Awards .

For the Ed.D, start with the College of Professional Studies (CPS)’s section on Financial Aid . Doctoral students are eligible for the MacFarland Scholarship , which is open to incoming students who are working—or have the intention of working—as an educator in a public school, at the elementary or secondary level, within an urban area.

The university also has a Northeastern Monthly Payment Plan , administered through Tuition Management Systems (TMS).

The Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership site contains a section on Financing Your Ed.D. , with details on Graduate Assistantships . Unfortunately, the Presidential Catholic Leadership Scholarship was discontinued in 2019.

University of Massachusetts-Boston

The College of Education and Human Development lists Scholarships for Education Students ; most of the awards are for teachers. UMass Boston’s section on Graduate Student Aid has more general info about assistantships (stipends & tuition credits), grants, and loans.

Full-time employees of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are eligible for tuition credits. UMass Boston recommends that you contact the HR office at your workplace for more information.

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

Graduate Studies has a section on Fellowships & Funding that’s worth investigating; doctoral fellows are eligible for a couple of awards. UMass Dartmouth also has a proximity tuition program in place for Rhode Island residents who are in graduate programs, though it’s best to check if the Ed.D. qualifies.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

The Ed.D. in Leadership in Schooling has a separate section on Tuition & Financing . It states that Ed.D. students are eligible for the College of Education Dean’s Fellowship (not to be confused with the general Dean’s Graduate Fellowship, which is only for master’s students). In addition:

  • Ed.D. students in the STEM concentration who live in neighboring states (CT, ME, NH, RI, VT) may be eligible for reduced tuition through the New England Regional Student Program (NERSP) because Math & Science Education doctoral programs qualify for the discount.
  • Full-time, out-of-state graduate students who live in Southern New Hampshire can also check out the Proximity Regional Rates Program .

Note: If a university name is missing from the list, we didn’t find specific examples of Ed.D. funding beyond private & federal loans and external aid.

School Administrator License Requirements in Massachusetts

Administrator licensure.

Massachusetts’s Office of Educator Licensure handles licensure for Academic PreK-12 administrators in Massachusetts public schools and Vocational Technical Education administrators. Licenses are issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE) .

There are five relevant Administrator Fields in the Academic PreK-12 Administrator category:

  • Principal/Assistant Principal – Grades: PreK-8, 5-12
  • School Business Administrator – Grades: All Levels
  • Special Education Administrator – Grades: All Levels
  • Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent – Grades: All Levels
  • Supervisor/Director – Grade level depends on prerequisite license; educators applying for a supervisor/director license must specify a particular role.

In addition, administrator licenses come in a variety of types, which are outlined in the PreK-12 section Administrator License Types and General Requirements . Those types are:

  • Professional
  • Provisional (Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent License Only)

The standard progression for licensure is Initial -> Professional (after a few years of job experience). However, the type is going to depend upon your education, experience, license(s) already held, whether you have taken the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) , whether you have completed any required performance assessments (e.g. PAL ), and whether you hold the Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement (only if applicable).

Administrator Licensure Requirements for Each Field

The simplest way to find requirements for each Administrator Field is to use the ESE’s Licensure Requirements Tool . For example, you’ll notice that PreK-12 administrators can go down one of three preparation routes to licensure:

  • Completing a state-approved educator preparation program (e.g. Boston College’s PSAP Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for Superintendent Licensure)
  • OR Completing an administrative apprenticeship/internship
  • OR Submitting to a panel review of your education & professional experience

There are plenty of other stipulations for licensure, which are covered in the Licensure Requirements Tool. A few other important things to note:

  • All PreK-12 educators seeking a Provisional or Initial license in Massachusetts are required to take and pass the Communications and Literacy Skill MTEL .
  • As of September 1, 2014, all educators seeking their first administrator license—principal/assistant principal at the Initial level—must complete the Performance Assessment for Leaders (PAL).
  • To qualify for a first Initial license in Massachusetts as a principal/assistant principal or supervisor/director, an educator must hold a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement .
  • As far as we can determine, many educator preparation programs are not at the Ed.D. level—prep programs tend to be at the Ed.S. or master’s level. (Boston College is an exception.)

The ESE also has entire section devoted to information for Out-of-State Applicants , including details on earning a Temporary or Provisional license while you work on fulfilling requirements for full licensure.

Note: Anxious about investing in the right preparation program? The ESE’s section on Statewide Reports contains a slew of accountability reports on Educator Preparation Programs, including MTEL pass rates and post-graduation employment rates!

Vocational Technical Administrator Licensure Requirements

There are only two types of license for Vocational Technical Education administrators: Initial and Professional. You can find a full rundown of requirements for both types in the section on the VocTech Administrator License .

Under the education requirements, you’ll see that Vocational Technical Administrators only have to hold a bachelor’s degree. But they still must complete one of the three preparation routes (i.e. educator prep program, apprenticeship/internship, or panel review).

Educational Leadership Jobs in Massachusetts

Educational leadership career outlook.

For a bird’s eye overview of the MA administrative landscape, begin with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)’s employment & salary data for elementary & secondary school education administrators and postsecondary education administrators . As you might expect from its national reputation, Massachusetts is way out in front.

  • The Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH metropolitan area has one of the highest employment levels for elementary & secondary school education administrators in the country. Employment across the state is also high.
  • Massachusetts is often in the top three of states with the highest employment levels of postsecondary education administrators , right up there with California. It also has one of the highest concentration levels.

Higher education accounts for a large chunk of the Massachusetts’s economy, and the state is packed with 100+ colleges & universities. However, there has been some discussion about whether the phenomenon can last with shrinking student populations . Something to bear in mind if you’re looking at small private colleges.

Are you focusing on an administrative career in the PreK-12 arena? The ESE’s section on Data & Accountability is a treasure trove of information for this sector. It posts School and District Profiles and annual Statewide Reports , with data on average teacher salaries, student enrollment numbers, and more. You may find these sources helpful for your dissertation research, as well as your job prep.

Educational Leadership Salaries

BLS statistics show that Massachusetts elementary & secondary school education administrators are some of the highest paid professionals in the country. You’ll find exact salary numbers in BLS’s section on State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Massachusetts . In addition, the ESE’s data on Teacher Salaries will give you ballpark educator salary averages for each MA district.

Postsecondary education administrators are also paid well, though Massachusetts is not among the top states for wages in this category. You can compare these numbers to the Comptroller of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s Statewide Payroll , which includes salaries of higher education administrators in MA public universities & colleges.

One caveat—Massachusetts (and the Greater Boston area in particular) is notorious for its high cost of living and housing. So wage numbers are likely to reflect the neighborhood.

Educational Leadership Job Boards

National job sites will have plenty of MA educational leadership jobs on their books (e.g. SchoolSpring, HigherEd, LinkedIn, etc.). However, there are some useful MA-specific job boards to consult, including:

  • MASC Superintendent Searches , with postings for in-state and out-of-state jobs for superintendents (including assistant & interim), directors, presidents, and more.
  • MASS Job Postings , with openings for superintendents, school business managers, directors, and more.
  • MASSLive , with postings for local jobs in education administration (all levels).
  • Boston Public Schools TalentEd , which features job listings for principals, directors, superintendents, deans, and more.
  • AISNE Job Board , which features openings in member schools of the Association of Independent Schools in New England.

Educational Leadership Organizations in Massachusetts

Educational leadership associations.

  • Boston Association of School Administrators and Supervisors (BASAS) : BASAS provides educational and administrative services for schools in Boston, Massachusetts. It is the Local 6 American Federation of School Administrators™ (AFSA).
  • Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) : MASC is a member-driven association supporting Massachusetts school leaders (it often conducts superintendent searches). It also acts as a voice of MA school committees, representing their perspective to outside agencies and governmental bodies.
  • Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (MASS) : MASS is a statewide organization dedicated to the professional and advocacy concerns of school superintendents and assistant superintendents.
  • Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association (MSAA) : MSAA is a membership organization serving the needs of elementary level, middle level, and high school administrators in Massachusetts. MSAA used to be the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ Association, which is why you may see it referred to as MSSAA. It merged with MESPA (the elementary association) in 2017.
  • Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) : MTA represents 110,000+ members throughout Massachusetts, including teachers, faculty, support professionals, and administrators at public schools, colleges, and universities. It has a higher education arm.

Educational Leadership Professional Groups

  • MassPartners for Public Schools : This is a coalition/advocacy group of teacher, parent, school committee, principal, and superintendent organizations in Massachusetts. It shares a commitment to improving public schools and education standards.

Note: Remember that state and national educator organizations often have funds and scholarships available for continuing education (e.g. Ed.D.). Check the website and ask about opportunities.

Educational Leadership Events in Massachusetts

Educational leadership conferences.

  • MASC Day on the Hill : This is a legislative advocacy day that brings school committee members, superintendents and student leaders to the State House in Boston to meet with executive and legislative leadership, as well as local senators and representatives.
  • MASC/MASS Joint School Leadership Conference : This is billed as the largest annual gathering of education leaders in Massachusetts, with a program of speakers, panel sessions, exhibits, demonstrations, and networking opportunities.
  • MASSCue/MASS Annual Technology Conference : This October event aims to provide MA educators and administrators with exciting ways to enhance teaching and learning with technology.
  • MASS Executive Institute : This 3-day conference/professional development program is for superintendents, assistant superintendents and district administrators. It’s held during the second or third week of July.
  • MASS Midwinter Meeting : This one-day event for superintendents includes a keynote address and a panel of practitioners. It takes place in the third or fourth week of January, in close proximity to the release of Chapter 70 State Aid figures. MASS also hosts a similar Spring Meeting .
  • MSAA Summer Institute : MSSA’s 3-day professional development event in July includes pre-conference workshops, sessions, and exhibits.
  • Women’s Educational Leadership Network (WELN) Conference : Hosted by MASS, this one-day event features presentations, panels, and networking opportunities.

Educational Leadership Training

  • Assistant Superintendent Leadership Seminars : Organized by MASS, these one-day sessions take place throughout the year.
  • EDE-Sponsored PD Offerings : The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE) offers a number of professional development, training, and/or technical assistance opportunities for educators through its offices (e.g. Curriculum and Instruction: STEM).
  • MSAA Leadership Licensure Program : MSAA runs a one-year licensure program that prepares aspiring administrators for Initial Licensure as Principals/Assistant Principals (PreK-6; 5-8; 9-12), and Supervisors/Directors.
  • New Superintendent Induction Program (NSIP) : This 3-year professional development program is a collaboration between the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE) and MASS.

School Listings

11 Schools Found

School of Education

Springfield, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education in Leadership and Supervision

  • Curriculum Info
  • How To Apply

Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning

Doctor of education in teaching and learning - adult learning, doctor of education in teaching and learning - alternative education, doctor of education in teaching and learning - elementary education, doctor of education in teaching and learning - global education, doctor of education in teaching and learning - middle education, doctor of education in teaching and learning - secondary education, doctor of education in teaching and learning - special education.

Longmeadow, Massachusetts

EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies

Offered Online

Lynch School of Education

Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

EdD in Educational Leadership

Executive doctor of education (ed.d.) in higher education, executive doctor of education (ed.d.) in higher education - catholic education.

Boston, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies - Educational Policy

Doctor of education in educational leadership and policy studies - higher education administration, doctor of education in educational leadership and policy studies - pk-12 school and district leadership, edd in educational leadership & policy studies: leadership in early childhood education-grade 12, msw/edd dual degree program.

Van Loan School

Beverly, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership in Higher Education

Doctor of education in educational leadership prek-12.

Graduate School of Education

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education Leadership

College of Professional Studies

Doctor of Education

Online doctor of education - curriculum, teaching, learning and leadership, online doctor of education - higher education administration, online doctor of education - organizational leadership studies.

School of Arts and Sciences

Weston, Massachusetts

EdD in Higher Education Leadership

Department of Leadership in Education

Doctor of Education in Higher Education

Edd in urban education, leadership, and policy studies, edd in urban education, leadership, and policy studies - administration and leadership, edd in urban education, leadership, and policy studies - teaching, learning, and leadership.

College of Arts and Sciences

North Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Lowell, Massachusetts

Doctor of Education in Leadership in Schooling

Doctor of education in leadership in schooling - stem.

U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

phd programs in education massachusetts

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To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based  Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The  University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the  main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the  part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The  Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based  George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the  Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our  complete rankings  of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

phd programs in education massachusetts

Tags: students , graduate schools , medical school , business school , law school , education graduate school , engineering graduate school , MBAs , nursing programs

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The Heller School Recognized as a Top 10 Graduate School

U.S. News & World Report ranks Heller #9 for social policy, and #13 for health policy and management: “Brandeis University graduate program earned ‘Best’ status as a result of its high ranking”

April 09, 2024

For its 2025 rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Heller School for Social Policy and Management among the top public affairs graduate schools in two specialty categories: social policy (where Heller has been top-ranked for over a decade) and health policy and management.

This year, Heller rose from #14 to #9 for social policy , ranking in the prestigious top 10 of its category, and ranked #13 for health policy and management .

Social policy and health policy and management are specialty areas within the public affairs category, where Heller ranks in the top 21% of graduate schools in the U.S. U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on a survey of deans, directors, and department chairs at 271 graduate schools of public affairs across the country.

“Heller’s legacy is one of innovation and dedication to making the world a more equitable place. As we continue to make profound contributions to the fields of social policy and health policy and management, we are cognizant of the changes that need to be made and how we can make them,” says Interim Dean Maria Madison . “Every day, our faculty and researchers commit themselves to improving health care access, promoting racial and economic equity, and advocating for improvements in disability rights, child poverty, and workforce and labor market conditions. It’s an honor to be recognized by our peer institutions for these efforts that impact meaningful change in our world.”

Led by the motto “knowledge advancing social justice,” Heller is a nationally-recognized research and educational institution at Brandeis University. The school, celebrating its 65th anniversary year in 2024, has expanded from a single doctoral program to include several master’s degrees spanning global and domestic social policy. Heller is also home to nine research centers and institutes renowned for conducting applied interdisciplinary research and active public engagement.

Northeastern University Graduate Programs

Mills College

Early childhood education.

The Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education with Early Childhood Special Education Preliminary Teaching Credential prepares students to work in early intervention, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten education settings with infants and young children (ages birth through 5) who experience a range of disabilities.  This program’s equity-centered approach to praxis advances social justice and increases access and opportunity for all children. 

In your clinical experiences, you will have an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of effective early intervention and preschool special education. These clinical experiences total more than 900 hours, exceeding the 600 hours of fieldwork required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).

The Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education with Early Childhood Special Education Preliminary Teaching Credential prepares students to work in early intervention, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten education settings with infants and young children (ages birth through 5) who experience a range of disabilities. 

This 42-credit, two-year program’s equity-centered approach to praxis advances social justice and increases access and opportunity for all children. 

  • The program’s experiential learning experiences aim to be the global standard; it prepares practitioners to lead in their professions as early childhood educators and leaders in California public schools.

Through collaboration with families, graduates of the program will support young children with disabilities, from birth through kindergarten, to live up to their potential.

Most courses in the MA in Early Childhood Education program meet CCTC standards, utilizing a strengths-based approach, which teaches students to approach early childhood with an appreciation of the diverse capabilities and resources children and families offer. The MA in Early Childhood Education program focuses on social justice and equity, centering on a disability studies approach. Students examine how societal systems set limitations based on “othered” identities, and how their instruction, interaction, and advocacy can create equitable and accessible learning opportunities.  The degree is conferred by Mills College at Northeastern University, and the teaching credentials are presented by CCTC. 

The Early Child Education (ECE) department maintains the belief that coursework and fieldwork must be integrated. Therefore, courses have assignments requiring engagement in educational settings, and students will be placed in experiential learning/educational fieldwork every semester of the two-year program. During a student's first year, they will be placed at the Mills College Children's School, where they are closely mentored by experienced and knowledgeable early childhood professionals. Students participate in weekly reflective circles with team members, where they discuss instructional decisions and interventions, receive feedback, and identify the next steps for supporting children and families. During the second year, student teaching will take place in an early intervention setting and a preschool-kindergarten setting.  

In their field placements, students have an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of effective early intervention and preschool special education. These experiential learning experiences total more than 900 hours, far exceeding the 600 hours of fieldwork required by the CCTC. Throughout the course sequence of the MA in Early Childhood Education program, students will compile a digital portfolio, including course assignments, such as reflection pieces, presentations, and papers. The portfolio will provide us with assessment evidence of varied experiences, depth of knowledge, and critical reflection around instruction gained during the program. A description of clinical experiences is  available here .

More Details

Unique features.

  • The program meets the CCTC Preliminary Education Specialist, Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) teaching credential.
  • Our academic coordinator and credential analyst is available to guide you through the  CCTC  aspects of the application, orientation to the degree program, and completion of the program. 
  • Gain clinical experience every semester for two years.
  • Secure placement at our celebrated  Mills College Children’s School  and other schools/districts.
  • Develop instructional competencies and personal disposition with seasoned mentors who are ECE professionals.

Program Objectives

  • Complete 42 total credits
  • Acquire 600 minimum hours of fieldwork
  • Gain clinical experience every semester for two years
  • Prepare to apply to the CCTC for a Preliminary Education Specialist credential with a specialty area of early childhood special education.
  • Prepare to work with children with special needs in early intervention programs, preschool, transitional kindergarten (TK), kindergarten, and inclusive/special education classrooms.
  • Achieve readiness to assume leadership positions within early childhood education as program directors or within policy or research institutions.

Career Outlook

The state of California is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in ECE. By 2025, all four-year-olds must be offered a placement in TK, resulting in the need for 11,000–16,000 new ECE teachers, including those with a specialty in working with students with disabilities.

The ECSE program director, Jaci Urbani, has participated in multiple state-led web conferences about the current and future needs for educators, specifically for special education and preschool-third grade (P-3). Specifically, discussion has focused on bringing diversity to the workforce by offering collaborations with community colleges (which the ECE department already has in place) and supporting those already working in the field without a teaching credential, such as teacher aides/assistants. 

Information on the ECE plans for the state is available in the following resources: 

  • Learning Policy Institute:  Building a Well-Qualified Transitional Kindergarten Workforce in California: Needs and Opportunities  
  • News release, Gov. Gavin Newsom:  Master Plan for Early Learning and Care: California for All Kids  
  • Master Plan for Early Learning and Care: California for All Kids

Testimonials

—jaci urbani, director, early childhood education program, mills college at northeastern university, —debra brown, head of the mills college children’s school, —jenny bond, assistant head of the mills college children’s school at northeastern university, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education Ask about scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and external funding resources.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

  • Application
  • Application fee
  • Letters of recommendation (2-3)
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended
  • Personal statement
  • TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo exam scores for applicants whose native language is not English

Prerequisites and Application Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution 
  • Completed at least one course in child development, early childhood education, developmental psychology, or child psychology
  • Completed at least 40 hours of volunteer or paid work in a school or other educational setting, specifically with young children, prior to enrollment. We encourage prospective students to complete these hours as early as possible so that we may consider their experience during the application review process.  
  • Passed all portions of the  California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)  for compliance with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing 

Basic Skills Requirements

  • All candidates are required to have satisfied the  Basic Skills Requirement (CL-667) .  
  • About the requirement:  All Mills College at Northeastern University credential program applicants must satisfy the  Basic Skills Requirement  before program admittance. 

What to submit:  The applicant must upload proof of meeting the Basic Skills Requirement for the credential analyst to review and approve when submitting the application for admission.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers..

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The program’s experiential learning experiences aim to be the global standard; prepare practitioners to lead in their professions as early childhood educators and leaders in California public schools.

In their field placements, students have an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of effective early intervention and preschool special education. These experiential learning experiences total more than 900 hours, far exceeding the 600 hours of fieldwork required by the CCTC. Throughout the course sequence of the MA in Early Childhood Education program, students will compile a digital portfolio, including course assignments, such as reflection pieces, presentations, and papers. The portfolio will provide us with assessment evidence of varied experiences, depth of knowledge, and critical reflection around instruction gained during the program. A description of clinical experiences is  available here .

  • Our academic coordinator and credential analyst is available to guide you through the  CCTC  aspects of the application, orientation to the degree program, and completion of the program.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Jaci M. Urbani

Jaci M. Urbani

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Examples of jobs graduates may hold:

  • Preschool teacher
  • Kindergarten teacher
  • Preschool director
  • Director of early intervention services
  • Director of special education services
  • Education consultant

Skills acquired:

  • Design differentiated and inclusive environments.
  • Collaborate and consult with families, educators, and service providers.
  • Assess young children for Individual Family Service Plans (IFSPs) and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
  • Implement evidence-based practices within a positive behavior support approach.
  • Demonstrate respect for various cultures, languages, and other identities to facilitate an asset-based learning environment.
  • Promote language and communication development.
  • Commit to ongoing professional development and serve as an advocate for young children with disabilities and their families.

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College of Education and Human Development

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

Arts in education MA/PhD

The MA/PhD track in Arts in education offers the opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research while specializing in your own focus area in art education. While we offer a strong K-12 focus, many students come into the program with interests in museum education or community arts organizations.

Graduates become educational leaders in diverse contexts – teaching in higher education, attaining leadership roles in school districts, museums, community arts organizations, government agencies, and foundations.

Quote from Wendy Friedmeyer

There are amazing thinkers within our faculty. I've been inspired by their work and every course has exposed me to new and important ideas. Wendy Friedmeyer PhD 2020

Doctoral curriculum

Your PhD coursework will center on your research interests. The program consists of 51 course credits and 24 doctoral thesis credits for a total of 78 credits. 

To see the curriculum requirements in detail, visit the course catalog, find Requirements > Program Sub-Plan Requirements > Arts in Education.

Master of arts students

Students can choose either a thesis (Plan A) or final paper (Plan B) to complete their degree. See the requirements for both curriculum plans.  

View the core requirements for the MA in art education in the course catalog, view Requirements, Program Sub-Plan Requirements, Arts in Education. 

Research opportunities

You can engage in research that advances the field of art education and ties into your area of interest. Faculty work closely with national, state, and local initiatives in art education. You are encouraged to collaborate on the development, implementation, and evaluation of these programs. Learn more about the student research experience in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.

Areas of expertise include: 

  • Place-specific, culturally relevant, arts education taught from a critical perspective
  • Mentoring the future art teachers 
  • Design process 
  • Aesthetic problem solving 

James Bequette James Bequette

My current inquiry in art education centers on Minnesota Native populations and is inspired by 15 years spent teaching in K-12 schools with mostly American Indian students.

James Bequette

Betsy Maloney Leaf Betsy Maloney Leaf

Betsy Maloney Leaf, PhD, MFA, is the co-License Program Lead in the Arts in Education program.

Betsy Maloney Leaf

How to apply

Application deadline and instructions.

Priority deadline : December 1 for admission to the fall of the following year Admissions decisions : January

Applications submitted after this date are considered on a case-by-case basis and may not be reviewed until the following year. Faculty review applications in mid-late December, and the Graduate School will notify applicants about admission decisions shortly thereafter. Final admission decisions are based on complete applications. All application materials must be included for the application to be released for review.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator . If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines . If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines.

Tuition and funding

We have several funding options to support students full-time through program completion. Support is available in the form of:

  • Teaching Assistantships. The majority work as student teaching supervisors for MEd initial licensure students. Daytime availability, a teaching license, and teaching experience are required
  • Research Assistantships
  • Fellowships. Based on a departmental nomination process. You will be notified by the Director of Graduate Studies if you are being considered for a fellowship. Decisions are made by April 15.
  • Graduate students are also eligible to apply for fellowships and graduate assistantships through other University departments. Visit the University's employment page or fellowships through the Graduate School's Graduate Fellowship Office .
  • Find more detailed federal financial aid and graduate tuition information.

Application requirements

What we look for.

Admission to our master's of arts and doctoral programs are competitive and we look for candidates whose goals and interests align with the program’s research and scholarship. Program faculty make admissions decisions based on the candidate’s experience and research competencies, along with compatibility of research goals.

Please look at our current faculty members’ research interests.

Our masters and doctoral candidates display

  • Evidence of strong interest in research and in the development of research competencies
  • Evidence of substantial experience in the discipline
  • Strong writing skills
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution or foreign equivalent

Required application documents

  • Unofficial transcripts .Upload your transcripts into the application system. Please include all transcripts from any institution you have attended, even if you did not earn a degree or certificate. Please do not mail your transcripts. Official transcripts are required only after you are admitted. Tips for uploading your transcript(s) .
  • CI Application Form . Upload in the graduate program additional materials section.
  • Three letters of recommendation . Ask professors, employers, or supervisors to speak to your potential for successfully completing your degree; they will upload their letters directly into the online application.

The GRE is being waived for those applicants applying for Fall 2024.

Required written statements

  • Why you want to study in our department
  • What strengths, expertise, and research experience would contribute to your success in our program
  • Your professional goals for pursuing a research-focused degree
  • Diversity statement .Upload to the Applicant Statements section of the online application. Identify the distinctive qualities, characteristics, and life experiences you would contribute to our community. You may wish to include examples that address your contribution to the diversity of the student body and illustrate your motivation to succeed by setting high standards for accomplishing intellectual and other goals, overcoming obstacles to achievement, and/or helping others to gain access to the resources necessary for success. (please do not exceed one page in length)
  • Short writing sample .(Optional except for Literacy Education applicants). For example, an excerpt from a term paper or research paper for publication. No longer than five pages in English.
  • Common Ground Consortium Fellowship. (Optional) The primary purpose of the CGC is to assist graduate programs in the College of Education and Human Development to recruit exceptional students with the distinct experience provided by HBCUs or similarly distinguishing contexts, provide these students with financial assistance support during their graduate studies, and assistance with career development and job placement afterwards. It offers a pipeline to excellence and an opportunity to diversify perspectives in the academy. If you wish to apply, submit a statement that describes how your participation as a CGC scholar would a) enhance your graduate student experience, b) prepare you for your chosen career, and c) benefit the public. Upload to graduate program additional materials section.

Additional admissions information

Application checklist.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator .

If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines. If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines .

Transfer credits

MA students must complete at least 60 percent of their coursework (not including thesis credits) within our program. PhD students may transfer no more than 15 credits from an outside institution.

A maximum of 12 graduate course credits taken as non-degree seeking or non-admitted status at the University of Minnesota can be transferred; this is counted separately from the maximum 60 percent or 15 non-UMN credits. For example, a PhD student could transfer a maximum of 27 credits (15 non-UMN and 12 non-degree from UMN).

If you earned a MA at the UMN, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator to discuss transfer procedures. Thesis credits cannot be transferred.

After you are admitted, you will work with your adviser to determine which credits may transfer.

International applicants

International applicants may also need:

  • An English translation of your transcripts, if the transcript is not in English. Please note: the Graduate School Admissions Office will not accept an evaluation of your international coursework by an outside agency such as ECE or WES; they only accept the original transcripts.
  • TOEFL/IELTS or MELAB. You may qualify for an exception if you have completed 16 semester or 24 quarter credits within the past 24 months in residence as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher learning in the United States or other country where English is the official language (i.e. U.K, Canada). Score requirements and submission guidelines

Request information

We’re here to help. Simply complete one of these forms and a member of our department will be in touch

College of Education grad program ranks in Top 40 among U.S. public universities

The Purdue University College of Education ranks #48 in 2024 Best Education Schools – Graduate  Education , according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings released Apr. 9. This is an increase from #49 in 2023.

Education is among the five top-ranked academic disciplines at Purdue ranked by the USNWR .

U.S. News and World Report (2024) Best Graduate School - Education #48 in the U.S. (Top 19%) #37 Among American Public Universities #2 in Indiana

“We are #2 in Indiana, and in the top 19% nationally,” said Wayne E. Wright , College of Education associate dean for research, graduate programs, and faculty development.

This ranking places Purdue’s College of Education graduate program in the Top 40 among U.S. public universities, at #37.

“While this is a very small improvement over our ranking last year, it is evidence that our graduate programs are strengthening — especially in the area of research,” said Phillip J. VanFossen , interim dean of the College. “In fact, the College has one of the highest levels of research productivity at Purdue.”

“We are thrilled to see our graduate program move even higher in the 2024 U.S. News and World Report Rankings,” Wright said. “We truly have outstanding programs and faculty who are dedicated to teaching and providing our students with highest quality education.”

U.S. News & World Report is a recognized leader in ranking colleges, programs, and graduate schools. Each year, Purdue’s College of Education strives to continually improve its programs and relies on the rankings to help promote and serve as a recruiting tool for prospective students seeking a quality online educational experience.

U.S. News and World Report rankings of the 2024 Best Graduate Schools – Education programs https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/purdue-university-main-campus-06068   

Source: Wayne E. Wright, [email protected]

Several UMass Amherst Graduate Programs Earn National Recognition in 2024 US News & World Report Rankings

umass seal

Graduate programs in several disciplines at the University of Massachusetts Amherst rank among the best in the country as reported in the 2024 edition of  U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools .

Each year, U.S. News ranks more than 800 institutions with a variety of graduate programs in six prominent fields: business, nursing, education, engineering, law and medicine. This year, the engineering, clinical psychology and medical program rankings will be published at a later date. 

In addition, rankings are published periodically for a selection of other disciplines; this year, new updated rankings were published for graduate programs in public affairs, computer science and health fields, including speech-language pathology, public health and clinical psychology. 

The UMass Amherst rankings for 2024 include: 

  • The Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences  ranks the same as last year at No. 24 and also ranks in most of the sub-specialties: artificial intelligence at No. 16, programming language at No. 23 and systems at No. 23. 
  • The  School of Public Health and Health Sciences  climbed 14 spots from last year to No. 29, and it also ranks No. 44 in speech-language pathology. 
  • The  School of Public Policy  ranks No. 52 in public affairs programs. 
  • The  College of Education  ranks No. 79, up from No. 83 last year. 
  • The  Isenberg School of Management’s full-time MBA program moved up 14 spots to No. 72 in the Best Business Schools rankings and the part-time MBA program is ranked No. 45, up two spots from last year.  This year’s methodology placed more emphasis on earnings, facilitated by a new ranking factor that assessed how each school’s post-graduate salaries across different professions compared with other schools’ post-graduate salaries in those professions.

Rankings of other graduate programs were not updated this year, but they were republished in the new guide. They include: 

  • In the  natural sciences —chemistry at No. 51; geology/earth sciences: No. 47; mathematics: No. 55; and physics: No. 55. 
  • In the  natural and life sciences —biological sciences at No. 74, biostatistics at No. 31, psychology at No. 51 and statistics at No. 51. 
  • Fine arts  at No. 89. 
  • In the  social sciences and humanities —English at No. 41, history at No. 48, political science at No. 56, economics at No. 79, and sociology at No. 29, with the sex and gender studies program ranked No. 8. 
  • Public Resources
  • PAEA Expands Event Offerings for…

PAEA Expands Event Offerings for PA Educators Nationwide 

phd programs in education massachusetts

We are thrilled to announce some exciting news at PAEA – we’re expanding our event portfolio to offer even more enriching opportunities for PA educators to learn, connect, and lead!

As you know, PAEA is dedicated to supporting the professional growth and development of faculty and staff from every role of our profession. That’s why our team is constantly looking for new ways to provide you with the learning resources and opportunities you and your program need to thrive.

Introducing Regional Education Meetings: Bringing Expertise Closer to Home

We’re delighted to introduce a brand-new event series launching in 2025 – Regional Education Meetings. These meetings will consist of intimate gatherings in the West, Midwest, Northeast, and South. As an attendee, you’ll gain insightful knowledge through focused breakout sessions and engaging keynotes, closer to home.

This localized approach allows you to connect with colleagues facing similar challenges in your area while fostering relationships and knowledge exchange. Attendees will:

  • Benefit from new opportunities to present and engage in scholarship, particularly from newer faculty and staff who are looking to advance their educational careers
  • Learn how other programs are addressing the most pressing topics in PA education
  • Hear thought-provoking keynotes
  • Network with local community partners

We will kickstart this series with meetings in the South and Midwest, launching a call for programs from these two regions to submit host site applications in mid-April. Stay tuned!

The Leadership Essentials Lab: Empowering Today’s Program Leaders

Are you a PA program director, dean, or serving in another leadership role? Are you open to discovering new ways to elevate your PA program? Mark your calendars for our exclusive, first-ever Leadership Essentials Lab , taking place August 7-9 in Washington, DC.

Designed for leaders like you, this curated and hands-on skill-building experience offers a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies, challenges, and best practices of program leadership:

  • Navigate accreditation and advocacy issues
  • Discover strategies to drive continuous improvement
  • Network with industry experts and other leaders
  • Learn new and proven strategies for building a thriving PA program

Click to join our interest list and be the first to know about early bird pricing. Note, space is limited.

Building on a Strong Foundation: The Education Forum

Our flagship event, the annual Education Forum , remains a cornerstone for PA educators. This ‘unmissable’ national gathering brings together colleagues from across the country, spanning every role of the PA education profession. Gain access to:

  • Dynamic educational breakout sessions
  • Inspiring keynote speakers
  • Invaluable networking opportunities
  • And so much more!

Those who attend will have the chance to explore 10 diverse programming tracks and delve into crucial topics such as technology, equity, and competency-based education, among others. Registration for the 2024 Education Forum in Washington, DC will open in early June.

Sharpen Your Skills with Virtual & In-person Workshops

Our popular workshops continue to be a valuable resource for educators at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re new faculty, a seasoned clinical coordinator, or a program director, there’s a workshop for you. Gain essential skills in areas like:

  • Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
  • Conflict Management

PAEA workshops are consistently offered throughout the year, providing flexible learning options to fit your busy schedule. Level up your career and register for an upcoming workshop today.

Our Commitment to Continuous Learning

As the leading voice in PA education, we are committed to convening expert speakers and curating topics that tackle your most pressing challenges. We are dedicated to equipping you with the knowledge and tools needed to position your program for long-term success. Our expanding event portfolio is just one way we’re working to achieve that goal.

Join Us on this Exciting Journey!

We highly encourage you to register to participate in our upcoming events and connect with your colleagues. Together, we can continue to elevate PA education and empower the next generation of healthcare leaders!

phd programs in education massachusetts

Sara Fletcher, PhD

Sara is the chief executive officer. She joined PAEA in 2014, bringing with her extensive experience in medical education and higher education leadership.

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Reflections on 2023

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COMMENTS

  1. Doctoral Degrees in Education

    The UMass Lowell School of Education offers two doctoral programs. Each program offers two options. The Ed.D. program is intended for PK-12 practitioners and is designed to enhance a candidate's skills both as a researcher and as an instructional leader of PK-12 programs. Choose from two options: The Ph.D. program prepares candidates to pursue ...

  2. Education : Graduate School : UMass Amherst

    The education programs at UMass Amherst are fundamentally shaped by a commitment to social justice and diversity. The mission of the College of Education is equally diverse and multifaceted, training educators to be adaptive to modern challenges and innovative in the face of adversity. Our graduates work within public and private schools ...

  3. Doctor of Philosophy in Education

    The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice. Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides ...

  4. PhD in Educational Studies » Academics

    The PhD degree program in Educational Studies at Boston University is designed for students who wish to contribute to the field's understanding of teaching and learning through research. The program will expand and deepen the knowledge and skills of enrolled graduate students in ways that will support their progress in pursuing teaching ...

  5. Higher Education PhD : College of Education : UMass Amherst

    Higher Education PhD. Earning a PhD in Higher Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst helps prepare graduates for careers as administrators, policymakers, researchers, and faculty members. Most importantly, our emphasis on scholarly practice helps graduates to support student success via evidence-based policies and interventions as ...

  6. MA/PhD Program

    Earning a Master's of Arts degree (MA) or doctorate (PhD) from Berkeley's School of Education often leads to a career as an educational scholar and researcher in schools, colleges, and universities; non-profits and think tanks; and corporations. In your application, we encourage you to describe your research interests as well as your desire ...

  7. Doctor of Education in Leadership in Schooling, Ed.D

    The Ed.D. requires completion of 42 credits beyond the master's or education specialist (CAGS) degree. Nine of these credits are focused on dissertation research. The research for the Ed.D. is applied in nature and may examine an issue pertinent to a local setting. The Ed.D. program requires completion of 11 online courses (33 cr) and 9 credits ...

  8. Doctor of Education (EdD)

    The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin ...

  9. PhD in Educational Leadership : Graduate School : UMass Amherst

    Recognizing the centrality of policy in education practice, the educational leadership PhD program gives current and aspiring leaders, policy analysts, and scholars the opportunity to critically examine and synthesize research, theories, practices, and policies, and conduct rigorous research that contributes to improving education.

  10. Doctorate in Education Programs in Massachusetts 2024+

    In 2022, the median pay for a preschool teacher was $35,330 per year according to the BLS. Elementary Education - Kindergarten and elementary school teachers build the foundation of a student's academic experience, instructing children in the basics of reading, writing and mathematics.

  11. Doctor of Education Degree (EdD)

    The Doctor of Education (EdD) at Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development is a post-master's program that combines rigorous academic coursework and practical, field-based experiences. The EdD is designed specifically for students who seek an advanced degree to support their work as practitioners in PK-12 and ...

  12. Doctoral Programs

    Doctoral Programs. The Lynch School of Education and Human Development is committed to conducting inventive research—work that informs solutions to complex social problems and promotes the common good. As an R1 university, the Lynch School's world-renowned faculty and expansive initiatives improve communities and influence local, national ...

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    University of Massachusetts Global offers one professional doctorate program, our popular Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership. This Ed.D. is a valuable degree program for those seeking to become influential leaders across all sorts of organizations, not just the educational sphere. Coursework is 100% online, including virtual ...

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  15. Doctorate in Education in Massachusetts

    PhD Programs in Massachusetts Massachusetts has excellent universities that offer programs for students who would like to get their doctorate in education, and they are typically 36 months long. There are a wide variety of fields offered in education, which focus the necessary skills to perform in a leadership position and to develop new skills ...

  16. Education MA

    The Berkeley School of Education offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Master's of Arts (MA), and credential degree programs as well as an Education major and minor for undergraduate students. PhD and Master's Programs at the Berkeley School of Education. Students collaborate in dynamic learning environment that develops expertise in areas including:

  17. Higher Education EdD / PhD

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  18. Elementary education MA / PhD

    The MA/PhD track in elementary education will allow you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge necessary to address the dynamic challenges of contemporary education at the elementary level. We train leaders in educational research and encourage students to dive deep into their own area of research. This program emphasizes: I was drawn to ...

  19. All Ed.D. Programs in Massachusetts

    Online Ed.D. Programs at Massachusetts Public Universities. UMass Lowell's 42-credit Online Ed.D. in Leadership in Schooling has a lot going for it. It's part of a school that often earns a top 20 ranking in Best Online Graduate Education Programs. It's eligible for fellowships and tuition discounts (see our Funding section). And it's ...

  20. Best PhD Programs in Massachusetts

    As one of Massachusetts's largest higher education institutions, Northeastern University offers students world-class PhD and doctoral programs, vast options for extracurricular activities, and powerful diversity resources. Northeastern University offers 33 doctoral programs within the emerging fields of bioengineering, biomedical sciences, computer science, cybersecurity, pharmacology ...

  21. U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

    To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health ...

  22. The Heller School Recognized as a Top 10 Graduate School

    For its 2025 rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Heller School for Social Policy and Management among the top public affairs graduate schools in two specialty categories: social policy (where Heller has been top-ranked for over a decade) and health policy and management. This year, Heller rose from #14 to #9 for social policy, ranking in the prestigious top 10 of its category, and ...

  23. Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education

    The MA in Early Childhood Education program focuses on social justice and equity, centering on a disability studies approach. Students examine how societal systems set limitations based on "othered" identities, and how their instruction, interaction, and advocacy can create equitable and accessible learning opportunities.

  24. Arts in education MA / PhD

    The MA/PhD track in Arts in education offers the opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research while specializing in your own focus area in art education. While we offer a strong K-12 focus, many students come into the program with interests in museum education or community arts organizations. Graduates become educational leaders in diverse ...

  25. College of Education grad program ranks in Top 40 among U.S. public

    The Purdue University College of Education ranks #48 in 2024 Best Education Schools - Graduate Education, according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings released Apr. 9.This is an increase from #49 in 2023. Education is among the five top-ranked academic disciplines at Purdue ranked by the USNWR.

  26. Several UMass Amherst Graduate Programs Earn National Recognition in

    Graduate programs in several disciplines at the University of Massachusetts Amherst rank among the best in the country as reported in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Graduate Schools.. Each year, U.S. News ranks more than 800 institutions with a variety of graduate programs in six prominent fields: business, nursing, education, engineering, law and medicine.

  27. Faculty

    Program Director: Shiv Pillai, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of MedicineShiv Pillai is a Professor of Medicine and Health Sciences and Technology at Harvard Medical School. He is the director of the Harvard PhD and MMSc Immunology programs and of the HMS-HST MD student research program. He is also the program director of an NIH-funded Autoimmune Center of Excellence at Massachusetts General Hospital.

  28. PAEA Expands Event Offerings for PA Educators Nationwide

    That's why our team is constantly looking for new ways to provide you with the learning resources and opportunities you and your program need to thrive. Introducing Regional Education Meetings: Bringing Expertise Closer to Home. We're delighted to introduce a brand-new event series launching in 2025 - Regional Education Meetings.