Master of Education [M.Ed] [Educational Psychology - Applied Developmental Science] From University of Virginia

COURSEWORK

Coursework focuses on the development of children, youth and adults in their social contexts, takes a strength based approach to improving the lives of children and youth and relies on rigorous research design to examine questions relevant to practice and policy. We value the varied perspectives that come from students who have worked with children and youth in a variety of countries and programs.

PROGRAM BENEFITS

• Advisors provide individual mentoring to students as they refine their interests and career goals; students work closely with their advisors to select courses, select a comprehensive exam topic and choose an internship.
• Internships in our program offer students the opportunity to learn about research and development from leaders and practitioners in the field. Students can conduct research at the Center for Advanced Study for Teaching and Learning (CASTL), the Youth-Nex Center to Promote Effective Youth Development or in other research organizations. They may also apply their knowledge and skills to work in community organizations or school districts.
• The program is rigorous: we will challenge students to think broadly about education so that they will be able to solve real-world problems, and to make a difference in the social contexts of children, youth and/or adults in their future work.

PROGRAM LIFE

Students spend their days attending small classes, reading about engaging topics, reflecting and writing about contemporary issues in education, discussing research methods with other students and faculty and participating in research studies and programs designed to promote the positive development of children, youth and adults. Each spring, students from the program in the field to understand and contribute to a local educational program. This year, we have partnered with the City Schoolyard Garden program to conduct a program evaluation and learn about students' experiences in school garden programs.