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The Master of Science in Educational Policy Analysis and Evaluation at the University of Wisconsin is an intensive one year program designed to prepare students for advanced roles in education research, policy development, and program evaluation. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with applied practice, emphasizing policy analysis, program evaluation, educational research methods, and data driven decision making. Students develop essential skills to critically assess education policies, design and implement evaluation studies, and generate actionable insights that inform practice and policy. Through coursework, applied projects, and field experiences, learners gain both analytical and practical expertise necessary to impact education systems at local, state, and national levels.
The program also emphasizes professional development and applied research, providing students with opportunities to engage in policy studies, evaluation projects, and collaborative research under faculty mentorship. Learners acquire experience in quantitative and qualitative data analysis, policy reporting, and educational program assessment while enhancing skills in leadership, communication, and critical thinking. Access to research databases, policy networks, and applied projects ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical competence. By the end of the program, graduates are prepared for careers in educational research, policy analysis, program evaluation, and further academic study in education or public policy.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Educational Policy
• Principles of Educational Policy Analysis
• Research Methods in Education
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Education Systems and Governance
Semester 2 – Applied Policy Evaluation
• Program Evaluation in Education
• Policy Implementation and Assessment
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
• Applied Policy Analysis Project
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional and leadership roles in education research, policy development, and program evaluation. Many work as education policy analysts, program evaluators, research consultants, school district advisors, or government education specialists, applying expertise in data analysis, policy review, and program assessment. The program equips students to design evidence based evaluations, interpret research findings, and contribute to decision making that shapes educational outcomes. Graduates also gain a foundation for leadership roles, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced research or doctoral studies in education policy, ensuring they can influence educational practices and reforms effectively.
This program offers an applied and research focused approach to educational policy, enabling students to develop advanced analytical skills and high level research expertise within a one year curriculum. The coursework emphasizes policy evaluation, data driven decision making, and applied research, preparing learners to assess educational programs and inform policy development effectively. With hands on policy projects, faculty mentorship, and opportunities for collaborative research, students gain both practical experience and theoretical understanding. The program’s focus on evidence based practice, professional development, and leadership preparation ensures graduates are well positioned to excel in education research, policy analysis, program evaluation, or further advanced study.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA