Brandeis University

What you'll study

The programme combines liberal arts coursework with education-specific study. Core topics typically include child and adolescent development, educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, assessment and measurement, research methods in education, and sociocultural perspectives on learning. Students study both theory and practice, exploring how learning occurs in diverse classrooms and communities and how institutional and policy contexts shape educational opportunities.

• Foundations of education and philosophy of schooling
• Developmental psychology and learning theory
• Curriculum design, assessment and classroom management
• Special education, inclusion and differentiated instruction
• Quantitative and qualitative research methods in education
• Electives that may cover topics such as literacy, STEM education, bilingual education, education policy and educational technology
• Capstone project or senior seminar integrating research, policy analysis or practicum findings
• Fieldwork and supervised practica: classroom observation and teaching experience in local schools

Programme structure

Students take major core courses alongside Brandeis's general education requirements. The curriculum emphasises close faculty mentorship, research opportunities, and progressively advanced practicum placements in local schools and community programmes. Many students also pursue internships with education-focused non-profits, policy organisations or research centres to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Admission to Brandeis is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic preparation and extracurricular engagement. Typical expectations include a strong high-school record with coursework demonstrating readiness for college-level writing and quantitative work.

• Secondary-school diploma or equivalent with transcripts showing rigorous coursework
• Personal statement or essays that convey interest in education and relevant experiences
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or others who can speak to academic potential and suitability for education work
• Demonstrated involvement in activities related to working with youth, tutoring, mentoring or community service is beneficial
• Standardised test submission policies may vary; consult the university for current guidance

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of education-related roles. Many proceed to further professional training to become certified classroom teachers; others enter careers in education policy, curriculum development, educational research, youth services, tutoring and programme coordination. The degree also provides strong preparation for graduate study in education, public policy, psychology, social work or related fields.

• K–12 teacher (typically requires additional state teacher certification or graduate licensure pathways)
• Instructional coordinator or curriculum developer
• Education researcher or analyst in think tanks and policy organisations
• Special education or classroom support roles and instructional coaching
• Non-profit education programme staff, community education organisers and outreach coordinators
• Further graduate study (MEd, MAT, EdM, PhD) for leadership, specialised practice or research careers

Why study at Brandeis University

Brandeis offers an education programme grounded in liberal arts traditions with close faculty engagement and opportunities for hands-on practice in the richly resourced Boston-area education ecosystem. The university emphasises social justice and equity in education, encouraging students to examine how race, class, language and policy affect learning opportunities. Interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and access to research centres and graduate schools provide pathways for students to engage in policy work, community partnership projects and supervised research.

Small class sizes, mentorship from faculty active in research and practice, and strong ties to local schools make Brandeis particularly well-suited for students who want both a broad intellectual foundation and direct experience working in educational settings.