Educational Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy (MA)

Department Website

Program Description

This Master of Arts program prepares students who want to work toward social and education equity through leadership, politics and policy, and advocacy positions. Graduates work in child, youth, and community advocacy organizations; policy and research centers; public, private, charter, and independent schools; and international and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).

The curriculum offers students considerable flexibility in creating a program of study that will best serve each student’s purposes and goals. Students can pursue multiple paths toward analyzing and critically assessing issues of leadership and policy at the federal, state, and local levels and learn to employ multiple approaches to inquiry and research.

The program of study consists of 36 units of coursework and continuous field-based experience. Each course is grounded in multiple theoretical perspectives; themes of advancing equity and social justice; a focus on the needs and experiences of low-income children and youth; and implications for leadership within and outside of educational settings. All students participate in an internship in community-based advocacy organizations, schools, or research centers. Placements take into consideration each student’s interests and additional field-based opportunities are also embedded in coursework throughout the program.

Admissions

Admission to graduate programs in the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development requires the following minimum components:

  • Résumé/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Proficiency in English

See NYU Steinhardt's Graduate Admissions website for additional information on school-wide admission. Some programs may require additional components for admissions.

See How to Apply for admission requirements and instructions specific to this program.