The Master of Arts in Education for Social Change degree program focuses on how educators can build critical consciousness and agentic capacities to work for social change within a variety of educational contexts. The degree program emphasizes justice and equity through self-reflection, communication, collaboration, advocacy, and analysis of research-based knowledge. The purpose is to critique and challenge deficit-thinking and center asset-based approaches in education.

In addition to 18 units of core courses, students select one of the four options to focus on 12 units of advanced course work:

• Option 1: Critical Bilingualism and Biliteracy;
• Option 2: Early Childhood Studies;
• Option 3: Literacy Leadership; or
• Option 4: STEM Leadership and Community Engagement.

Courses in the core topics and option areas examine curriculum, pedagogy, research, and leadership to lead to social and educational transformation. Throughout the degree program multiple modalities are valued and developed to communicate ideas in ways that manifest reflective thinking and practices.

Admission to the Program

In addition to University requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants must:

• Have a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average in their last 60 semester units attempted. 
• A personal statement. 
• A resume or curriculum vitae (CV).

Although it is recommended that students have a teaching credential and classroom teaching experience, it is not required. A teaching credential may be pursued concurrently with this Master’s degree.

Applications are considered each semester for admission in the Fall or Spring semester. Prospective candidates must check with the Division of Curriculum and Instruction office or online for application deadlines and procedures.

Advisement

Upon acceptance, each student must attend an advising session with the coordinator of the option they have selected in the Division of Curriculum and Instruction.

Overview for Course Study

Upon admission to the program, each candidate with select one option field of study. All candidates will complete six required core courses (18 units) and four option courses (12 units) within their self-selected field of study. All students must pass a comprehensive examination or complete a thesis or project (0-4 units). 

Requirements for the degree include completion of Required Core (18 units), Option Field of Study (12 units), and a Culminating Activity which may be either a Comprehensive Examination/Directed Elective (0/4 units), Thesis (4 units), or Project (4 units). 

Learning Outcomes   Roadmap (2023)