Master of Arts [M.A] [Educational Leadership] From Washington State University

The non-thesis Master of Education (Ed.M.) degree is designed for professional educators preparing for leadership positions. The following information is for the M.A. degree.

The M.A. requires a written thesis. The purpose of the thesis is to demonstrate a student’s understanding of educational research & theory as well as a student’s ability to design & implement a research study, and synthesize the results. These hypotheses/questions should be specific, clear, and focused on some aspect of educational inquiry. The thesis includes a review of the pertinent literature related to the research hypothesis/question, a description of the methodology used to investigate the hypothesis/question, the results of the study, and a discussion of the results. The outcome of the thesis research should add to the body of research in the particular field/area.

The final examination and defense of the thesis is intended to explore your ability to integrate and interpret material in the major and supporting fields with emphasis on the work presented in the thesis.

All graduates will be able to:

•  Identify and analyze the theories, research, and policies related to the study of K-12 educational leadership: ethics and social justice; inquiry; policy; and leadership/instructional  leadership.
•  Prepare, write and present clear and coherent critical book reviews and reviews of the literature in educational leadership.
•  Understand, evaluate, and apply inquiry knowledge and skills to problems of policy and practice of educational leadership.
•  Design, conduct, report, and present clear and coherent research studies that contribute to understanding and solving problems of practice in educational leadership.
•  Articulate core values and model the guiding principles of the profession including: commitment to social justice; understanding of ethical responsibilities of leadership; effective and  respectful interaction with others of similar and diverse cultures, values, and perspectives; commitment to school improvement and a positive impact on student learning.