Applied Research Methods

Discover the Master of Arts in Educational Studies, a comprehensive graduate program offering diverse concentrations to enhance understanding of education, learning, development, and research in education and social change. Choose from specialized tracks including Research for Social Change, Higher Education Administration, Applied Research Methods, and Educational Psychology and Child Study.

In the Applied Research Methods concentration, students explore quantitative methodologies to gather evidence in education and social sciences. Gain practical skills in research design, analysis, and interpretation while preparing for impactful careers in educational research, policy analysis and social science research. Unlock your potential to drive positive change in education and beyond.

The vast majority of our students move into a career related to higher education within a few months of graduation. Preparation for a career in Applied Research Methods is designed through a combination of coursework, guided experiences, and a master’s project or thesis. Students can tailor a focus of study that best serves their professional aspirations. An advisor will work with a student to design a program of study fitted to individual interests and professional goals.

Within the Applied Research Methods concentration, students will learn the understanding, application and development of quantitative, measurement, and/or qualitative research methods as tools to gather evidence in the field of education and other social and behavioral sciences. The concentration focuses on developing a foundation in basic research approaches that are applied across disciplines and that can serve as the foundation for future advanced learning about research methodologies.

• Experimental design and power analyses
• Causal inference and measurement methods within the context of multilevel and multidimensional settings, such as classrooms and schools
• Measurement and analysis of teachers' knowledge, instructional quality and strategies, and student achievement to identify and develop methods of effective teaching
• Multilevel Structural Equation Models
• Hidden item variance in multiple mini-interview scores
• Mixed methods research: integration of quantitative and qualitative approaches to address research questions
• Combining mixed methods and case study research

Faculty in the Applied Research Methods concentration within the Educational Studies M.A. program are recognized experts in the education field. With more than 150 publications, a range of presentations, various research and practice interests and a depth of training and education experiences, the concentration's distinguished faculty members are well-positioned to train tomorrow's leaders in the field of higher education.