Florida International University

What you'll study

This master’s programme focuses on the comparative study of education systems, policies and practices around the world. Core coursework develops foundations in comparative education theory, international education policy, and qualitative and quantitative research methods for cross-national inquiry. Students typically study topics such as educational policy analysis, schooling and development, curriculum and assessment across cultures, multilingual and intercultural education, equity and social justice in education, and the political economy of education.

Programme structure usually combines required core modules with elective options, allowing students to tailor study to interests such as comparative policy, international development, teacher education, or educational measurement. Most students complete a capstone project, practicum or thesis that applies comparative methods to a real-world problem, and many have opportunities to pursue fieldwork, internships or collaborative research with partners in the Miami region, Latin America, the Caribbean and beyond.

• Comparative and International Education theory
• Research methods for comparative studies (qualitative and quantitative)
• Education policy analysis and governance
• Education, development and globalisation
• Curriculum, assessment and standards across contexts
• Language, culture and multilingual education
• Electives such as migration and education, conflict and education, or educational leadership in international contexts

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent and demonstrate academic ability and readiness for graduate study. Admission typically requires a transcript of prior study, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Relevant professional experience in education, international development or related fields is valued but not always required.

International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior instruction in English. Additional programme materials such as a CV/resume and samples of academic writing may be requested during the admissions process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in International and Comparative Education go on to careers in a variety of sectors that engage with education across borders. Typical roles include policy analyst or advisor for government ministries and education agencies, programme manager or specialist at international NGOs and donor organisations, curriculum or assessment specialist, education consultant for international development projects, and programme officer in multilaterals or foundations. The degree also prepares students for further academic study at the doctoral level and for research roles in universities and think tanks.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University is situated in Miami, a multilingual, multicultural city with close ties to Latin America and the Caribbean, offering natural advantages for comparative and international education work. FIU is a large public research university with a diverse student body and faculty whose research and outreach often engage regional and global education issues. Students benefit from opportunities for community partnerships, internships and fieldwork in the region, as well as access to interdisciplinary centres and resources that support research on migration, bilingualism, and international development.

The programme is designed to connect theoretical and methodological training with applied experience, preparing graduates to tackle cross-cultural education challenges in policy, practice and research.