Through the Educational Policy Studies Certificate, students learn about education debates, education policy, and educational advocacy. Courses emphasize the implications of policy decisions for equity, justice, and well-being. Students critically analyze policy issues from multiple perspectives.
Students interested in pursuing this certificate are encouraged to consult with advising staff in the School of Education Student Services office, Room 139 Education Building, 1000 Bascom Mall. Current students can schedule an appointment online through the Starfish app in MyUW. Appointments can also be made through email, studentservices@education.wisc.edu, by calling 608-262-1651, or in person.
The EPS certificate is also available to individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree; see the Nondegree/Visiting Student Guide.
How to Get In
All current UW-Madison undergraduates and University Special Students are eligible to complete the Certificate in Educational Policy Studies. Students must complete at least one Educational Policy Studies (ED POL) course with a grade of B or better prior to declaring the certificate program. Students intending to complete the Educational Policy Studies Certificate should visit the School of Education's Certificate Programs page to complete the declaration form.
Students pursuing the Education Studies major, the Certificate in International Development and Education, the Certificate in Global Cultures, Languages, and Education, and/or the Certificate in Social Justice and Education, are not eligible to complete the Educational Policy Studies certificate.
Requirements
The Certificate in Educational Policy Studies requires the following course distribution for a minimum of 12 credits. At least 6 credits must be completed in residence. Completion of the certificate requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 in certificate coursework.
- Complete a minimum of four Educational Policy Studies courses (12 credits).
- Students must take at least one of the following courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ED POL 240 | Comparative Education | 3 |
| ED POL 300 | School and Society | 3 |
| ED POL/HISTORY 412 | History of American Education | 3 |
- At least two courses must be numbered 300 or above.
Undergraduate/Special Student Certificates
This certificate may be completed within the context of an undergraduate degree or as a Special student after an undergraduate degree has been awarded from any institution. The certificate may be completed in its entirety while enrolled as a Special student. Candidates are encouraged to contact the certificate coordinator to discuss course enrollment and the sequencing of certificate requirements.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the social, cultural, and/or historical contexts of education policy.
- Examine education policy from multiple theoretical perspectives (e.g., ethical/philosophical, economic/political, etc.).
- Analyze education policy issues from diverse perspectives related to race, class, and/or gender, and other forms of social difference.
People
Information about faculty, staff, and other contributors to the Department of Educational Policy Studies can be found on the department's website.