University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The Educational Policy Analysis and Evaluation program, part of the MS in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, is designed for individuals interested in engaging with educational policy research and analysis. This program equips students with essential skills in research methods, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges in policy design, implementation, and evaluation across various educational settings, including K–12, higher education, and community/technical colleges.

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasizes a blend of policy-focused studies and training in research methodologies and evaluation practices. Key areas of study include:

• The Politics of Education
• Critical Issues in Educational Policy
• Quantitative Inquiry in Education
• Data Management for Education Policy Analysis
• Qualitative Research

Throughout the program, students will develop competencies in formulating policy-relevant research questions, selecting suitable methodologies, managing and analyzing data, and interpreting findings for effective evaluation and decision-making.

The program may culminate in a capstone project, thesis, or other equivalent requirements, which will be determined based on the chosen track and degree plan. It is advisable to confirm the specific requirements with the department.

Entry requirements

• GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.00 is required, with additional review for those with lower GPAs.
• Academic background: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While specific field requirements may vary, candidates are expected to be adequately prepared for graduate-level study.

English requirements

• Duolingo English Test (DET): A minimum score of 125 is required.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 92 is required.
• IELTS: A minimum band score of 7.0 is required.

Other requirements

• Essay statement outlining your motivation and goals.
• Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts will be needed prior to admission).
• Resume or CV detailing your academic and professional experiences.
• Letters of recommendation: Three letters from individuals who can evaluate your academic and professional readiness.
• Additional statement: Required if your GPA is below 3.00, explaining why your GPA does not reflect your potential for leadership roles.

Career prospects