Education, Culture and Society
The Master of Science in Education, Culture and Society explores how cultural, social, political, and economic forces shape education systems and learning experiences around the world. This one-year program provides a critical foundation in educational theory, sociological perspectives, and cultural analysis, equipping students to investigate how issues of identity, equity, and power manifest in classrooms, communities, and policies. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry, students examine education through the lenses of race, class, gender, language, and globalization.
Throughout the program, students are encouraged to question dominant narratives and evaluate how cultural assumptions influence educational practices and outcomes. Coursework is complemented by research opportunities and field-based experiences that ground theory in real-world contexts. The program prepares graduates to become thoughtful scholars, practitioners, and advocates who can contribute meaningfully to educational reform, community empowerment, and policy development in diverse social environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Education, Culture and Society
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Education
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations and Theory
• Introduction to Education, Culture and Society
• Social Theories in Education
• Language, Identity, and Power
• Research Methods in Social Inquiry
Semester 2 – Issues and Applications
• Education and Social Inequality
• Globalization and Education Policy
• Cultural Studies in Education
• Capstone Research Project or Applied Practicum
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for impactful roles in education policy, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), social research institutions, cultural advocacy groups, and international education agencies. Many also pursue doctoral studies in education, sociology, or cultural studies. Career titles include education policy analyst, community educator, program coordinator, diversity and inclusion officer, and curriculum consultant. With their deep understanding of the complex relationships between culture and education, alumni contribute to shaping inclusive and just educational practices that address systemic challenges and promote equity on both local and global scales.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding education not just as a formal system, but as a cultural and social process embedded in broader societal structures. Students gain the critical tools to analyze how education reflects and reproduces societal values and inequalities. The curriculum encourages reflective practice, rigorous research, and community engagement, fostering a learning environment committed to justice, inclusion, and transformative change. For those driven by a passion to question norms, influence educational systems, and promote cultural understanding, the Master of Science in Education, Culture and Society provides a powerful platform for both academic growth and real-world impact.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
