Educational Policy, Research, and Leadership
Jennifer Jacoby, Associate Professor of Psychology and Education
Sarah Frenette, Five College Director of Undergraduate Teacher Licensure Programs
Kelley O'Carroll, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Teacher Licensure
Overview and Contact Information
This certificate is unique opportunity for students within the Five College Consortium to develop foundational expertise in education policy, research, and leadership. The field encompasses the critical study and analysis of the laws, regulations, and systems that shape education across diverse settings and contexts, with a fundamental commitment to advancing educational equity and social justice. It involves using rigorous data analysis, theoretical frameworks, and real-world evidence to evaluate and transform how schools and other educational organizations function, how students across all demographics learn and thrive, and how education can become a powerful tool for dismantling systemic inequities and creating more just and effective learning environments.
Educational Policy, Research, and Leadership exists at the vital intersection of policy, research, and leadership, driving change from classroom innovations to transformative state policy and national education reforms. By critically examining policies and their differential impacts across communities, students will be prepared to ensure that educational systems are intentionally designed or reformed to advance student success for all learners, cultivate teacher effectiveness, and contribute to a more equitable society.
See Also
Requirements for the Certificate
A minimum of six courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 4 courses in Foundations of Policy (includes 2 courses that explore education policy through interdisciplinary lenses (historical, sociological, American education policy, international education policy, social justice education, government and politics, etc.) 1 | ||
| 2 courses in Foundations of Research: 2 research methods courses (i.e., research design, qualitative/quantitative methods, program evaluation, classroom assessment) | ||
| Total Courses | 6 | |
- 1
As part of the Foundations of Policy strand, advisors will encourage students to take courses that explore education leadership theory (e.g., bases of power, cultural considerations), approaches (e.g., transformational vs. transactional), skills (e.g. interpersonal communication); and strategies (e.g. strategic planning), and engage in self reflection about their own unique strengths and potential areas for leadership growth.
Additional Specifications
- A list of courses approved for the certificate is available on the certificate's website.
