Academic Experience

MEP is designed for those looking to make a difference within systems of public education — from the classroom to Congress, from preschool to higher education. You are not required to have a background in education, and we welcome students with non-education academic and professional backgrounds. The key factor is a desire to produce positive change in the field of education.

Curriculum

The program curriculum gives you a foundational understanding of educational policy design,  implementation and evaluation, applied qualitative and quantitative methods, education economics and school finance, the dynamics of educational organizations and the politics of policymaking.

Each quarter you will take a special integrative seminar course that applies your classroom learning to current issues facing education systems. Through case studies and group projects, you will unpack the theories and explore their practical application to policy design, implementation and evaluation.

Program Format

The MEP program uses a cohort format, meaning that you will work closely with your classmates throughout the year and form tight bonds. Students complete the intensive program in one year, over four quarters.

All classes are held on the scenic UW Seattle campus. The exception is the nine-credit internship, which you will complete on-site at an organization or government agency of your choosing. You will carry out your 150 hours of internship work during spring and summer quarters to complete your degree.

Internship and Degree Project

A key aspect of MEP is the 150-hour internship that each student serves with a selected government agency or nonprofit, philanthropic or advocacy organization. This vital aspect of the program allows you to apply the conceptual knowledge and practical skills learned in the classroom to real-world challenges, working closely with experienced policy professionals.

The degree culminates with a major policy research project that you can add to your professional portfolio.