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Master’s Programs

Master’s programs are full-time, intensive programs that integrate educational theory and practice. The small cohort sizes provide an intimate setting for academic inquiry and foster individual contact with faculty and fellow students.

Application open

Sep 12, 2024

Start of classes

Sep 22, 2025

Duration

2 years

Degree conferred

MS

The EDS program combines modern data science analyses and computational methods with a deep understanding of learning, schools, and education policy. With rigorous academics and real-world experience, the program prepares the first generation of education data science leaders.

Learn about EDS

The Individually Designed MA in Education is intended for doctoral students at Stanford who would like to earn a master's in education while studying for their PhD outside of the GSE. Students develop their individual program of study in consultation with a GSE advisor and must finish in three years. 

Learn about the Individually Designed MA

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Application open

Sep 12, 2024

Start of classes

Sep 22, 2025

Duration

12 months

Degree conferred

MA

ICE/IEPA addresses educational practice in a rapidly changing global context, in both less-developed and industrialized countries. Students examine such problems as the political economy of underdevelopment and educational planning in comparative perspective. The major research project requirement provides students the opportunity to develop excellent research skills.

Learn about ICE/IEPA

Application open

Sep 12, 2024

Start of classes

Sep 22, 2025

Duration

12 months

Degree conferred

MS

LDT integrates powerful contemporary ideas about learning with emergent technologies to design and evaluate learning environments, products, and programs. LDT graduates bring their skills to bear in a variety of settings, including schools, museums, research institutions, and educational technology companies.

Learn about LDT

Application open

Sep 12, 2024

Start of classes

Sep 22, 2025

Duration

9 months

Degree conferred

MA

POLS emphasizes the knowledge, theory, and skills necessary for effective leadership in a variety of education-focused organizations. Students design their own programs of study focused on pre-K-12 education, non-profit leadership, policy analysis, higher education, or a combination of these broad areas.

Learn about POLS

Application open

Sep 12, 2024

Start of classes

June 23, 2025

Duration

12 months

Degree conferred

MA + teaching credential

STEP offers both an elementary and secondary route. Both programs lead to teacher certification in the state of California, and both require intensive, supervised practice at school sites as well as academic course work that focuses on cutting-edge, school-based research.

Learn about STEP

The following degree program will not accept applications for 2025-26 enrollment. Please check back in July 2025 for more information about the 2026-2027 academic year:

Curriculum and Teacher Education (CTE)

Application open

N/A

Start of classes

N/A

Duration

9 months

Degree conferred

MA

CTE is an individualized, research-intensive program intended for students with prior professional experience in education. 

Learn about CTE

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Joint MA programs

The joint MA/JD degree combines study for the JD degree in law with an individualized program in education.

Learn more about the joint MA/JD

The joint MA/MBA allows students to pursue an MA in education at the GSE and an MBA at the Graduate School of Business. Students complete both degrees in two years.

Learn more about the joint MA/MBA

The MA/MPP joint degree allows students in the POLS program to simultaneously pursue a master's in public policy from the School of Humanities and Sciences. Students complete both degrees in two years.

Learn more about the joint MA/MPP

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STUDENT VOICES | Cordy McJunkins

"Many of the classes I've taken have helped me connect the dots on various educational issues and understand how institutions and education leaders have a role to play in improving the educational opportunities of all students, especially those from underserved populations."

73%

Master’s graduates were employed (full time or part time)

100%

STEP graduates hired as teachers

Contact us

For more information about GSE admissions and to see upcoming events and appointments:

To meet the Office of Academic Affairs:

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