Course Overview!

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership & Policy program at Boston College's Lynch School of Education and Human Development prepares students for leadership roles in various educational sectors (public, private, charter, etc.) and geographic regions. It focuses on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to address leadership challenges through a standards-based reform, technological advances, and evidence-based practices approach. The program emphasizes social justice values, ethical leadership, data-informed decision-making, and creating strong community partnerships. Students develop skills in critical self-reflection, team leadership, fostering organizational learning, and building relationships across diverse stakeholders. Graduates are expected to demonstrate innovative leadership to improve equitable learning opportunities for marginalized students.

Course Structure

The program offers four pathways: a general M.Ed. track, a licensure track (MA residents only), a concentration in Social Justice Leadership, and a concentration in Educational Policy Development. Regardless of pathway, all students complete core courses covering introduction to educational leadership and change, organizational theory, family and community engagement, using data and evidence for school improvement, educational law and public policy, and a reflection seminar. Students choose one additional core course focused on either leadership or policy. Electives allow specialization within student interests. The licensure path includes a practicum. Concentrations in Social Justice or Educational Policy Development involve additional coursework aligning with those themes.