Universidad Tecnológica del Sur

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations in educational evaluation with applied methods for assessment design, psychometrics, programme monitoring and policy analysis. Core themes include validity and reliability of assessments, quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods, item response theory, large-scale assessment, formative assessment practices, and the use of data for school improvement.

• Research methods and statistics for education — advanced inferential statistics, multilevel modelling, and practical use of statistical software for educational data.
• Psychometrics and test construction — classical test theory, item response theory, test development, scaling and score interpretation.
• Programme evaluation — theory-driven evaluation, logic models, experimental and quasi-experimental designs, cost-effectiveness approaches.
• Assessment for learning — formative assessment strategies, feedback mechanisms, classroom-based assessment and teacher assessment literacy.
• Large-scale assessment and policy — design and management of national and regional assessments, data reporting, equity and accountability issues.
• Qualitative methods in evaluation — case study, interviews, focus groups and mixed-methods integration for comprehensive evaluation.
• Practicum / Applied evaluation project — an applied assignment or thesis where students plan and carry out an evaluation or assessment project in a school, educational agency or community context.

Delivery typically mixes seminars, laboratory workshops (for software and item-writing), supervised research and a capstone project or thesis. Students gain hands-on experience with tools commonly used in the field such as statistical packages, test-construction platforms and evaluation frameworks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in education, psychology, social sciences, statistics or a related field. Professional experience in education, assessment or evaluation is normally required or highly valued for admission to the programme.

• Official academic transcripts from prior studies.
• Proof of relevant professional experience (e.g. teaching, school administration, evaluation roles) where applicable.
• A statement of purpose describing interests in educational evaluation, research aims and intended professional application.
• Two academic or professional references that can attest to the applicant’s capacity for graduate study.
• Depending on the applicant’s background, the selection committee may request evidence of quantitative skills or require completion of preparatory modules in statistics or research methods.

Career prospects

Graduates from this master’s programme are prepared for roles that require advanced expertise in assessment and evaluation across education systems. Typical career paths include:

• Assessment specialist or psychometrician in ministries of education and testing agencies.
• Programme evaluator or monitoring and evaluation (M&E) officer for educational NGOs, international organisations and public agencies.
• School or district leader responsible for assessment policy, data-driven improvement and accountability systems.
• Curriculum developer or consultant designing assessment-aligned learning materials and teacher assessment training.
• Researcher or analyst in academic institutions and think tanks focusing on educational measurement, policy evaluation and impact studies.

Graduates commonly work on policy design, assessment system development, large-scale survey administration, impact evaluations of educational interventions and professional development for teachers on assessment literacy.

Why study at Universidad Tecnológica del Sur

Universidad Tecnológica del Sur offers an education-focused postgraduate environment with close links to regional schools, educational authorities and community organisations. The university emphasises applied training, enabling students to work on real evaluation projects and to develop practical skills that are directly transferable to professional settings.

• Faculty with experience in both research and applied evaluation practice, bringing current methodological techniques into teaching.
• Practical laboratories and workshops that familiarise students with statistical software, test-design tools and evaluation frameworks.
• Opportunities for collaboration with local education providers and programmes, supporting applied capstone projects and field placements.
• A curriculum designed to balance rigorous methodological training with considerations of educational equity, policy relevance and classroom practice.

The programme is suited for professionals aiming to influence educational practice and policy through rigorous evidence and to take leadership roles in assessment and evaluation across public, private and non-governmental sectors.