The M.A. in Education Policy and Leadership gives students an opportunity to examine all aspect of education policy, including its development, its implementation, and its consequences for citizens, children,and educators. Although all students in the Department take coursework in policy studies, this specialization provides students with an opportunity to develop a more in-depth program of study in the political, philosophical, economic, sociological, and legal analysis of education policies and practices. Coursework examines the historic and current roles of federal, state, and local governments in shaping educational systems and processes, the distribution of educationally relevant resources and the consequences of those policies for educational equity, and the possibilities and challenges associated with school reform and institutional change. Specific attention in courses is given to current reforms and policies, including school finance litigation, school choice, competing models for school reform, and high-stakes accountability policies. Students who specialize in Education Policy and Leadership pursue positions as scholars, researchers, policymakers, policy analysts, advocates for youth and educational leaders in private and public organizations.