Master of Education, Social Foundations of Education

(Available at our Northern Virginia Center)

The Master of Education with an emphasis in Social Foundations of Education is an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes the evolutionary nature of education studied in the broader context of society. Grounded in core democratic values that underscore the role of education in creating a productive citizenry, the program stresses the interplay of schools, students, teachers, administrators, government agencies, policy makers, and advocacy groups and the impact they have on the sociocultural study of education.

The 36-credit hour (12 courses) program serves students from a wide variety of backgrounds and helps them develop a personal philosophy of education through analysis, synthesis, and dialogue. Students have the flexibility to pursue interests within and outside of education. Specialized courses include seminars and field experiences in social foundations of education, aesthetics and education, comparative education, sociology of education, technology and society, and politics of education. Coursework typically takes two years to complete on a part-time basis.  A comprehensive exam is required, after completion of 36 credit hours of coursework. 



Required Courses (6)

EDLF 7601

Social Foundations of Education

EDLF 7602

History of American Education

or

EDLF 7603

Philosophy of Education

EDLF 7604

Sociology of Education

or

EDLF 7605

Anthropology of Education

EDLF 7606

Comparative Education (or another comparative education elective)

EDLF 7608

Aesthetics and Education or Education, Politics and Public Policy or another policy elective)

EDLF 7701

Reading Seminar in Social Foundations of Education (enrollment limited to accepted master's students expecting to graduate in same year)

Elective Courses (6) Students are required to complete six, three-credit electives. This self-design option provides a unique opportunity to create your own specialization in social foundations, education policy studies, or global education. Electives may also be taken in education administration, adult learning, or professional development courses for alternative licensure.  The following K-12 endorsement areas are also eligible as electives : special education, reading, gifted education, and curriculum and instruction.  Candidates may choose from any of the courses listed below, or keep their course selections within one or more areas of specialization – the baseline social foundations, education policy or global education tracks. Elective courses are generally offered on a two-year rotation. Search now for classes offered this semester. Register now for classes offered this semester. Program Contact Northern Virginia Center Dan Driscoll Email:  djd4y@virginia.edu Telephone: 703-536-1126 / 1-800-678-4882 FAQs and Application