Master of Education (M.A.) in Research and Evaluation Methods

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Research and Evaluation Methods 

Elevate your work with data driven evaluation and assessment

In today’s data-driven world, there is increasing demand for researchers with the data science skills to help institutions and schools enhance their decision-making procedures and ensure equitable outcomes for all stakeholders. This program is designed to equip you with the robust background in methodology, research design, and data analysis you’ll need to help meet that demand. 

At a Glance

How many courses?


This program consists of 10 courses for a total of 30 credits.

How long will it take?


Part-time students complete the program in 2–3 years. Full-time students can complete the program in 1 year.

When can I start?


You can begin the program in the spring, summer, or fall semester.

Can I enroll part time?


You can enroll in the program part time or full time.

Alumni Profiles

Learn about MESA M.A. alumni careers.

Curriculum

With a curriculum that incorporates quantitative and qualitative methods, including courses in evaluation theory and practice, you will develop strong skills in research and evaluation design, data collection and management, data analysis, report writing, and organizational communication.

Requirements


  • Courses: 10 
  • Credits: 30 
  • Comprehensive Exam


 

Students will select 2 electives (3 credits each) with the help of their advisor. Students may use these electives to specialize in a content area in assessment, measurement, evaluation, or statistics.  

CourseCourse TitleCredit
MESA8100

Master's Comprehensive Exam

In order to ensure that all students graduating from the master's program have a fundamental understanding of the field which they are about to enter, they are required to complete a comprehensive examination covering the broad areas of the core courses. 

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If you’re interested in social change and in applying methodology to understand if programs are making a difference, we will give you the theoretical and practical tools to do that.
Emily Gates, Assistant Professor, Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics, and Assessment department

Careers

Roles

  • Researcher
  • Assistant Professor
  • Project Analyst
  • Research Associate
  • Director of Efficacy Analytics and Studies
  • College President
  • Principal Psychometrician
  • Director, Innovation Lab
  • Senior Vice President of Research
  • Senior Consultant

Organizations

  • American Institutes for Research
  • Northern Illinois University
  • Bank of America Operations
  • Hanover Research
  • Pearson
  • Cumberland County College
  • ACT Inc.
  • Measured Progress
  • Maguire Associates
  • Sheffield Research and Evaluation

MESA Research Centers 

The national and international demand for sophisticated education researchers is reflected through two world renowned MESA‐affiliated research centers:

TIMSS and PIRLS International Study Center

The Center conducts comparative educational achievement studies in math and science (the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study or TIMSS) and reading (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study or PIRLS) under the auspices of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement. 

Center for the Study of Testing, Evaluation, and Educational Policy (CSTEEP)

CSTEEP is an educational research organization that conducts research on testing, evaluation, and public policy, working with individual schools, districts, states, and countries to advance educational testing practices and policy and improve the quality and fairness of education.

Financial Aid

Education should level the playing field. We feel the same way about financial aid.

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $11.4 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable. 

Faculty

Internationally recognized faculty integrate interdisciplinary theory with the most current evidence-based practices.

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Application & Deadlines

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A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required. The fee is waived for select applicants

Deadlines

Spring 2024

Priority Deadline - November 1
Rolling Admission - Until Dec 1

Summer 2024

Priority Deadline - January 4
Rolling Admission - Until April 5 

Fall 2024


Priority Deadline - January 4
Rolling Admission - Until July 15

Resume

To be uploaded to your online application.

In addition to your academic history and relevant volunteer and/or work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.

 

Personal Statement

To be uploaded to your online application.

In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one preferably coming from an academic source. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.

Transcripts

Transcripts from all college/university study are required.

Applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States should view the "International Students" section for additional credential evaluation requirements.

Please begin your online application before submitting your transcripts. Details on how to submit transcripts and international credential evaluations can be found within the application. In order to ensure your transcript reaches our office, it is important to review and follow the instructions.

Standardized Tests

GRE scores are not required. If you wish to send GRE scores, the Lynch School GRE code is 3218.

Please view the "International Students" section for information on English Proficiency test requirements.

Writing Sample

Not required.

International Students

Applicants who have completed a degree outside of the United States must have a course-by-course evaluation of their transcript(s) completed by an evaluation company approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Submission of falsified documents is grounds for denial of admission or dismissal from the University.

Applicants who are not native speakers of English and who have not received a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction must also submit a TOEFL or IELTS test result that meets the minimum score requirement.

Please click the link below for full details on these requirements.

Requirements for International Students

Contact Us

  gsoe@bc.edu
  617-552-4214