Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The MA in International and Comparative Education combines theoretical perspectives on comparative education with practical training in research methods and policy analysis. Core themes include the social and political contexts of education, globalisation and education reform, equity and inclusion, curriculum and assessment across contexts, and the role of international organisations in education provision.

• Comparative and International Education Theory: historical and contemporary frameworks for comparing education systems, concepts of transfer and policy borrowing, and critical approaches to international education.
• Education Policy and Governance: study of policy formation, implementation and evaluation at national and transnational levels, including the role of non-state actors.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: training in survey design, statistical analysis, case study methods, ethnography and mixed-methods approaches commonly used in comparative research.
• Equity, Inclusion and Human Rights in Education: examination of access, special education, gender, refugee and minority education, and the intersection of education with human rights frameworks.
• Programme Design and Evaluation: practical skills for designing, monitoring and evaluating education programmes in international development contexts.
• Regional and Thematic Electives: options to focus on particular regions (e.g. Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa) or themes such as early childhood, teacher development, or higher education policy.
• Capstone or Research Project: most students complete a practicum, policy brief or an independent dissertation-style research project applying comparative methods to a topic of professional interest.

The programme typically offers a mix of seminars, research workshops and field-based practicum opportunities, and students are encouraged to engage with interdisciplinary faculty in education, sociology, public policy and international studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in education, social sciences, humanities or a related field. Relevant professional experience in education, development or policy can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants whose academic background is in a different discipline.

• Academic transcript: evidence of a completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Letters of recommendation: typically two academic or professional references that speak to academic potential and relevant experience.
• Personal statement: a statement outlining academic interests, professional goals and reasons for pursuing the MA in International and Comparative Education.
• Research or work experience: demonstrated interest through work, internships or prior research in education or international development is advantageous.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of proficiency is required in line with university policy.

Specific entry criteria and any additional requirements (such as a writing sample or interview) are determined by the programme and should be checked on Loyola University Chicago’s official programme pages.

Career prospects

Graduates of this MA commonly pursue careers in international organisations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government ministries of education, think tanks and research institutes. The programme’s emphasis on policy analysis, programme design and evaluation and research methods prepares alumni for roles such as:

• Education programme officer or manager in NGOs and development agencies
• Policy analyst or advisor in government departments and international bodies
• Monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) specialist for education projects
• Researcher in comparative education, educational equity or policy research centres
• Consultant on education reform, curriculum development or teacher training initiatives
• Further academic study at doctoral level in comparative or international education

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago situates the MA in International and Comparative Education within a Jesuit, liberal arts tradition that emphasises social justice, ethical engagement and community service. The programme benefits from faculty expertise in education policy, international development and qualitative and quantitative research methods, and it is supported by the university’s interdisciplinary centres and partnerships.

Students can take advantage of Chicago’s international NGOs, consulates and research organisations for practicum placements, networking and applied research opportunities. The programme’s focus on equity and human rights aligns with Loyola’s institutional commitments, preparing graduates to address complex educational challenges in diverse global settings.