Education

The Department of Education at Washington University in St. Louis is an interdisciplinary community that bridges the theoretical and research foundations of education, traditional academic disciplines (e.g., sociology, psychology, history), and the professional practice of education. Our academic programs span a variety of disciplinary perspectives, methodological approaches (e.g., quantitative, qualitative), and levels of analysis ranging from the individual to complex systems. Individually and as a community, we are working to change education and other systems that perpetuate inequity and inequality. Our departmental theme of “Equalizing Educational Opportunity: Equity, Inclusion, and Success in Classrooms, Schools, and Communities” encapsulates this work.

The department offers undergraduates a major and minor in educational studies and majors in elementary teacher education, middle school teacher education, and secondary teacher education. Graduate programs include teacher education master’s programs in elementary education, middle school education and secondary education; a dual MSW/MAED degree; and a doctoral program in education with a focus in either educational policy studies or educational psychology.

We offer a vibrant student-centered community in which faculty and staff are invested in the mentoring and success of students. Many of our classes are smaller and thus allow for meaningful interactions with the education community.