| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-12-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
| 2025-06-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2025-12-01 | - |
| 2026-03-01 | - |
| 2026-06-01 | - |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2026-12-01 | - |
| 2027-03-01 | - |
| 2027-06-01 | - |
| 2027-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Educational Policy and Leadership at the University at Albany prepares students for leadership and policy analysis roles in education. The program offers three concentrations: Educational Policy, Global and Comparative Educational Policy, and School Leadership. Graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills in organizational theory, analytic decision-making, and policy analysis, preparing them for careers in education administration, policy analysis, and research.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master of Science in Educational Policy and Leadership program at the University at Albany is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to take on leadership and policy analyst roles in domestic or international educational settings. The program emphasizes organizational theory and analytic decision-making related to learning contexts across the lifespan.
Objectives:
- Graduates will be prepared to enter early to mid-career administrative posts in higher education institutions or other organizations.
- Graduates will be prepared to enter early career policy analysis posts in education departments or research firms.
Program Description:
This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines core courses, concentration-specific courses, and support discipline courses. Students choose from three concentration options: Educational Policy, Global and Comparative Educational Policy, and School Leadership. The program also offers opportunities for internships, field experiences, and study abroad experiences.
Outline:
Program of Study:
- Core Courses:
- Introduction to Organizational Leadership
- Introduction to Social Analysis
- Quantitative Methods in Educational Leadership (or approved statistics course)
- Seminar in Education Policy and Leadership (or Master's Thesis in Educational Administration)
- Concentration Courses: Three courses in the chosen area of concentration.
- Support Discipline Courses: Two courses in subjects such as philosophy, economics, sociology, psychology, or political science.
- Electives: Three courses related to the program.
Concentrations:
- Educational Policy: Provides a working knowledge of different philosophical approaches to policy adoption and implementation, prepares students to lead policy initiatives, analyze policy for research and advocacy, and succeed in faculty positions.
- Global and Comparative Educational Policy: Explores the global education policy-making process from early proposals to implementation, prepares students to work with foreign ministries of education and NGOs.
Careers:
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in the field of education, including:
- Educational administrators
- Policy analysts
- Faculty members
- Researchers
- School leaders
- Curriculum developers
- Higher education administrators
- The program offers an internship, field experience, and study abroad component.
Supplemental Degree Programs:
- Master of Arts in Africana Studies
- Master of Science in Community College Leadership
- Master of Arts in Demography
- Master of Science in International Education Management
- Master of Science in Teacher Leadership
Overview:
University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.Libraries:
Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.Career Services:
Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.Student Life:
Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.Residential Life:
Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.Dining:
Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.Athletics:
Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.Commitment to Public Engagement:
The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.Faculty Access:
The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.Graduate Programs:
A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.Online Learning:
Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.Other:
The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.
Entry Requirements:
Prerequisites:
- Academic Requirements: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- GPA Requirement: Minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of undergraduate coursework.
- Coursework: Completion of an introductory statistics course or an approved course in statistics.
Application Materials:
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all schools attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities and potential for success in the program.
- Resume: A current resume detailing your academic and professional background.
- Statement of Goals: A one to two page statement discussing your interest in the program, your career goals, and how the program aligns with your objectives.
- Educational Leadership Essay: Choose one of the three essay prompts provided and write an essay of no more than 800 words.
