EDPA M.A.: Educational Administration (EdAd) Track
Overview
The master of arts (M.A.) degree in educational policy and administration with a program track in educational administration (EdAd), administered by the Graduate School and offered by the Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development (OLPD), provides a common beginning point for those interested in graduate study in educational administration. Among the areas of emphasis offered are elementary and secondary school administration, general administration, education policy, education finance and budgeting, and personnel administration. Completion of the master's degree alone does not meet the Minnesota administrative licensure requirements, which require a total of at least 90 graduate credits.
EdAd offers coursework and research opportunities for those interested in making a difference in educational systems and settings that involve PreK-12 children and youth. The program is committed to supporting the development of leaders and scholars who work to continuously improve educational quality and effectiveness so that young people graduate from secondary education well prepared to continue their learning and to contribute to their communities. The program promotes understanding of schools as organizations and emphasizes application of knowledge and research to varied contexts of educational practice.
Who enrolls in this program?
M.A. students in EdAd are
the leaders and future leaders of Minnesota schools. They come to this program from
positions as teachers, school and district staff, and from positions in other state
and private organizations committed to improving education. The program is selective
and is limited to 20 students each year.
What will my program look like?
The M.A. requires that students take at least
30-36 credits (Plan A) or 30-32 credits (Plan B)of course work. Typically, a course meeting once a week throughout the
semester is three credits. As part of their program of study, students prepare a
Plan B paper (2-4 semester credits). Students may complete the coursework on either
a full-time or part-time basis.
How long will my master's program take?
Attending full time, including summers, students often can complete the degree requirements in one calendar year. However, many students are employed full time and spread their coursework over 2 years. M.A. students must successfully complete their coursework, Plan B paper, and final oral examination to receive their degree. All degree requirements must be completed within seven years after starting the program.
Contacts
For questions regarding the admissions process, admissions documents, or general information about the program contact:
Dr. Jeremy
Hernandez
Coordinator of graduate studies
Phone: 612-626-9377
Email: herna220@umn.edu
Specific questions regarding course content should be directed to the
program co-coordinators:
Dr. Nicola Alexander
Phone: 612-624-1507
Email: nalexand@umn.edu
Dr.
Ken Dragseth
Phone: 612-626-8647
Email: drags002@umn.edu
Revised April 2012