This program is designed as a traditional master's program with an emphasis on developing students with a social justice orientation to engaging in leadership and research in public and private K-12 schools, higher education and other educational organizations and agencies. It is designed for those who wish to build more equitable educational policy and systems by combining the study of foundations in education with research in an area of interest. Students in this program complete 12 credits of foundational courses, six credits' worth of research courses, and 15 elective credits. Our graduates have gone on to inform policy and practice in relation to educational equity via careers in educational research or nonprofit organizations, higher education, and student support in K-12 settings, or to continue their education in a doctoral program.

Program Outcomes:
Graduates of Marquette’s master's program in educational policy and foundations (EDPF) can expect to be able to:

1. Analyze the quality of research tools used to conduct educational research that addresses current policy issues in education.
2. Frame educational issues in historical context of American education.
3. Construct philosophical foundation for educational practice
4. Use theoretical and/or research perspectives to analyze political, social, economic, legal and/or cultural issues in education. 
   
   Program handbook and forms

Admission:

All applications for admission to the master's programs in educational policy and foundations must originate with the Graduate School. New students can enter the program any semester of any year or during the summer term. All applicants must have at least a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.

Individuals interested in applying to the program should apply online on the Graduate School website.

Apply as a master of arts student with a specialization in educational policy and foundations (EDPF). Be sure to inform the individuals you choose for recommendations that filling out the online assessment is not enough. They must upload their letter online.

Materials to be submitted for application:

• Graduate School application form and application fee
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions except Marquette

If coursework was completed within the United States, submit copies of all current and previous college/universities except Marquette.

If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process.

• Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can address the applicant's academic and professional potential
• A statement of purpose
• Interview (optional but recommended)

Application deadlines:

Students typically begin the program in the fall. A number of competitive research assistantships and tuition scholarships are available. For maximum financial aid opportunities, apply by the January 15 deadline. Applications after January 15 will be given consideration on a rolling basis. We encourage you to contact us if you are considering summer or spring entry or have concerns about meeting an application deadline.

• January 15 Priority Deadline for admission and financial aid (fall entry)
• April 15 (for summer)
• July 15 (for fall)
• November 15 (for spring)

Applicants should make sure their files are complete by these dates. Applicant files are reviewed comprehensively, emphasizing all aspects of applicants' backgrounds. Academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, statements of purpose and professional background receive particular attention in the review process. If necessary, the department faculty may request an interview before making a final decision.

Students interested in the EDPF program may want to consider applying for the Trinity Fellows Program as well. A graduate fellowship program dedicated to developing urban leaders with a commitment to social and economic justice, Trinity Fellows participate in a 21-month study/ work program while earning a master's degree.

For more information on this or any one of our graduate-level programs, please contact Tina McNamara.