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. 

To see if a course is being offered this semester, click on the link(s) below.

Required Courses (6)

EDLF 760

Social Foundations of Education

EDLF 761

History of American Education

or

EDLF 762

Philosophy of Education

EDLF 763

Sociology of Education

or

EDLF 764

Anthropology of Education

EDLF 765

Comparative Education (or another comparative education elective)

EDLF 767

Aesthetics and Education or (EDLF 589 Education, Politics and Public Policy or another policy elective)

EDLF 770A		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 policy studies, education administration, adult learning, or professional development courses for alternative licensure. Electives in the following K-12 endorsement areas are also feasible: administration, special education, reading, gifted education, and curriculum and instruction. Students also have the option of focusing primarily on social foundations or some course combination that satisfies personal and professional interests.
Program Contact Northern Virginia Center Dan Driscoll Email:  djd4y@virginia.edu Telephone: 703-536-1126 / 1-800-678-4882 FAQs and Application