Understand the economic, social, political, and cultural developments that shape education practice in the United States and around the world. In this 36-credit hour program, you’ll be introduced to core concepts in comparative education and gain an anthropological, sociological, and economic perspective on education policy.

You can also take advantage of the opportunity to do independent research in the United States or abroad as part of your optional master’s thesis.

Students must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours, including the following:

Basic Core (9 cr.)

• H551 Comparative Education I (3 cr.)
• H552 Comparative Education II: Case Studies (3 cr.)
• H637 Topical Seminar: International and Comparative Education topic (3 cr.)

Specialized Studies in Educational Foundations (9 cr.)
Choose up to three of the following courses:

• A630 Economic Dimensions of Education (3 cr.)
• H504 History of American Education (3 cr.)
• H520 Education and Social Issues (3 cr.)
• H525 Anthropology of Education (3 cr.)
• H530 Philosophy of Education (3 cr.)
• H540 Sociology of Education (3 cr.)
• H620 Seminar in Educational Policy Studies (3 cr.)

Or one of the following courses:

• H553 Travel Study (3 cr.)
• H590 Independent Study (3 cr.)

Concentration (9 cr.)
One course in educational inquiry methodology, selected with the advisor. These are usually Y-prefix courses in the School of Education, but they may include approved inquiry courses outside the School.

Inquiry Methodology (3 cr.)
One course in educational inquiry methodology, selected with the advisor. These are usually Y-prefix courses in the School of Education, but they may include approved inquiry courses outside the School.

Electives (6 cr.)
Should you choose to complete a master’s thesis, you will take six credits of H599 Master’s Thesis to meet the elective requirement. Those who choose not to complete a thesis should take elective courses with the consent of their advisor.