Program Description

The M.Ed. in Educational Research requires the completion of 36 graduate hours. The coursework is designed to provide students with a set of research skills applicable to a variety of areas within education. Specifically, these skills include the critical reading of research, the use of statistical techniques, and the construction, selection, and interpretation of cognitive tests. Course work in this degree includes core requirements that are part of the Ph.D. degree in educational research. Students with a baccalaureate degree who are interested in pursuing doctoral work in educational research are encouraged to enroll in the M.Ed. in Educational Research.

Learning Outcomes

• Cultural Competence. Advanced program candidates demonstrate a high level of competence in understanding and responding to diversity of culture, language, and ethnicity.
• Knowledge and Application of Ethical Principles. Advanced program candidates demonstrate in-depth knowledge and thoughtful application of the Code of Ethical Conduct and other guidelines relevant to their professional role.
• Communication Skills. Advanced program candidates possess a high level of oral, written, and technological communication skills, with specialization for the specific professional role(s) emphasized in the program. For programs for the advanced preparation of teachers, candidates meet ISTE standards. For doctoral programs, candidates are prepared to publish and present at conferences.
• Mastery of Relevant Theory and Research. Advanced program candidates demonstrate in-depth, critical knowledge of the theory and research relevant to the professional role(s) and focus area(s) emphasized in the program.
• Skills in Identifying and Using Professional Resources. Advanced program candidates demonstrate a high level of skill in identifying and using the human, material, and technological resources needed to perform their professional roles and to keep abreast of the field’s changing knowledge base.
• Inquiry Skills and Knowledge of Research Methods. Using systematic and professionally accepted approaches, advanced program candidates demonstrate inquiry skills, showing their ability to investigate questions relevant to their practice and professional goals.
• Skills in Collaborating, Teaching, and/or Mentoring. Advanced program candidates demonstrate the flexible, varied skills needed to work collaboratively and effectively with other adults in professional roles.
• Advocacy Skills. Advanced program candidates demonstrate competence in articulating and advocating for sound professional practices and public policies for the positive development and learning of all students.
• Leadership Skills. Advanced program candidates reflect on and use their abilities and opportunities to think strategically, build consensus, create change, and influence better outcomes for students, families, and the profession.

Specialized Competencies

• Students will demonstrate a general knowledge of Research Principles and Design Issues in Educational Research.
• Students will demonstrate a general knowledge of Measurement and Assessment Issues in Theory and in Practice.
• Students will demonstrate general knowledge of Statistical Procedures and the Interpretation of Results of Various Designs.
• Students will demonstrate an expertise in the Development and Presentation of Research that Includes Purpose, Methods, Results, and Conclusions
• Students will demonstrate knowledge of Ethics, Fairness, and Professionalism as Related to the Field of Educational Research.

Admission

To be considered for admission, all of The Graduate School’s application requirements, curriculum vitae, and a letter of intent that delineates the applicant’s professional goals and specific interest in the degree, and two letters of recommendation must be on file in The Graduate School, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208. Review of applications takes place in October and February.

The comprehensive examination for the M.Ed. in Educational Research consists of developing a proposal for a specific research problem.

Degree Requirements (36 Hours)