Our programmes offer a wide range of opportunities to think about meanings and practices of social difference such as those based on race, sex, ethnicity, gender, class and ability. The Ph.D. and the M.Ed. are research degrees. Appropriate background may also include experiences that indicate preparedness and interest in broadening one's understanding of education through graduate study. Decisions regarding a plan of study are made in consultation with faculty and through on-going faculty advising. The programmes are distinguished by small classes, individual attention and encouragement, opportunities to meet and collaborate with peers, and special topic courses that are interdisciplinary and designed to engage with current research in theories and practices of education, pedagogy, qualitative research, and the dynamics of social and educational change.
All candidates engage in research through course work.
For Doctoral candidates, this culminates in the writing of a dissertation. For Masters candidates the culmination is the writing of a thesis or research project. Research assistantships and teaching assistantships are available to full-time graduate students. Applicants are required to submit a file of their academic, career, and life experience for admission to the doctoral programme. This interview will be arranged at the convenience of both the programme and the candidate.