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Overview of the Program

The Integrated Undergraduate–Graduate (IUG) program in Education and Public Policy enables high-achieving students to earn both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in approximately five years. Through this accelerated pathway, students begin graduate-level coursework during their undergraduate studies and apply selected credits toward both degrees.


This integrated program provides a rigorous academic experience that blends theory, research, and policy analysis to prepare students for leadership roles in Education and Public Policy.


Program Update:

The Educational Theory and Policy master’s program is transitioning from a thesis-based degree structure to a capstone project-based model. This transition reflects a strategic effort to enhance the applied and practice-oriented nature of the program’s culminating experience, with an emphasis on real-world policy analysis, research, and problem-solving.


In conjunction with this curricular revision, the program will confer the Master of Science (M.S.) degree in place of the Master of Arts (M.A.).


These modifications are intended to strengthen the program’s alignment with contemporary professional and academic expectations, providing students with rigorous training and practical experience that prepare them to address complex challenges in educational policy and related fields.


Master’s Degree Pathway


Undergraduate Study 

Students complete coursework toward the B.S. in Education and Public Policy while building a strong academic foundation in education, policy, research, and data analysis.


Key expectations:

  • Maintain a strong academic record (typically GPA 3.2–3.5 or higher)
  • Complete foundational coursework in Education and Public Policy


Application to the Integrated Program (Junior Year)
Students apply during their junior year after earning at least 60 credits and before reaching 90 credits.


Application requirements include:

  • Statement of purpose
  • Faculty recommendations
  • Approved plan of study developed with an academic advisor

Note: GRE scores are not required for Penn State IUG applicants.


Graduate Coursework (Senior Year)

During the senior year, students begin graduate-level coursework.

Benefits include:

  • Double-counting up to 12–15 credits toward both degrees
  • Paying undergraduate tuition for graduate courses taken during undergraduate study


Completion of the Master’s Degree (Year 5)

Students complete remaining graduate coursework and any required research, projects, or capstone experiences to earn the M.A. in Educational Theory and Policy.


Objective of the Program

The integrated program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in education policy, theory, and research while developing advanced analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Graduates are prepared to understand and address complex educational and public policy issues at local, national, and global levels.


Career Preparation

  • The program prepares students for:
  • Graduate-level research and policy analysis
  • Leadership roles in Education and Public Policy
  • Careers in government, education systems, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy groups
  • Advanced study in doctoral or professional programs


Students will develop the ability to:

  • Analyze educational policies and their social, political, and economic impact
  • Use data and research to inform policy decisions
  • Design and evaluate education programs and initiatives
  • Communicate policy recommendations effectively to diverse audiences
  • Engage in ethical and equitable policy-making


Key Benefits of the Integrated Program

Academic & Time Benefits

  • Complete both degrees in approximately five years
  • Double-count up to 12–15 credits
  • Begin graduate study early


Financial Benefits

  • Pay undergraduate tuition for graduate courses taken during undergraduate years
  • Reduce the overall cost of earning a master’s degree


Career Benefits

  • Enhanced career readiness in Education and Public Policy fields
  • Preparation for careers in:
    • Government agencies
    • Nonprofit organizations
    • Think tanks
    • Consulting firms
    • Educational institutions


Admission Requirements 

  • Minimum GPA: typically 3.2–3.5 or higher
  • Strong academic performance, particularly in research, statistics, or policy-related courses
  • Faculty recommendations
  • Statement of purpose and approved plan of study


Application Process

  1. Meet with Jermonica Earls, Academic Program Specialist, to discuss eligibility and develop a plan of study.
  2. Prepare application materials.
  3. Submit the application through the Penn State Graduate School.
  4. Begin graduate coursework after acceptance into the program.