M.S. in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation - Measurement and Quantitative Methods

The Master of Science (M.S.) program in ERM provides training in the foundations of research methodology, educational measurement, and program evaluation. The Measurement and Quantitative Concentration gives graduate students rigorous training in mathematical and statistical methods for effective evaluation. These types of skills are in high demand as more programs become more data-driven.

In the UNC Greensboro program, students who choose this concentration spend additional coursework in analyzing the relationship between multiple variables in their data sets. They improve their understanding of the Item Response Theory (IRT) to explain the relationship between latent (unobservable) traits and their observed outcomes and manifestations.

Students in the M.S. programs receive comprehensive training through a core set of required courses, as well as hands-on, practical experience obtained through field experiences, practicums, and internships coordinated and supported by the Department of Information, Library, and Research Sciences (ILRS) Office of Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Services (OAERS).

M.S. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods Program Distinctions

UNC Greensboro graduate students in the Measurement and Quantitative Methods concentration get to work closely with the Office of Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Services (OAERS). Through this program, they integrate research with community and individual clients in their early semesters.

OAERS houses include the STEM Program Evaluation Laboratory (SPEL). Here, students work closely with Department of Information, Library, and Research Sciences (ILRS) faculty on science and math-centered programming.

Graduate students who join SPEL get to:

• Tap into the next generation of talent by introducing K-5 students to science and scientists.
• Bring more people into areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, especially people from underrepresented populations.
• Boost the results of STEM recruitment, retention, and advancement programs.
• Help the United States maintain a competitive scientific and technological workforce.
• Mentor undergraduate students using research and evaluation data.

In its first three years, SPEL represented approximately $90 million in funding. Their initiatives and partnerships include:

• $10 million from the STEM PUSH network, connecting and advancing pre-college programs to increase the preparation of ethnically and racially underrepresented students for college STEM programs.
• $12.5 million to collaborate with Cena y Ciencias, a Spanish-language initiative for elementary, middle grade, and secondary students.

Our internationally recognized faculty have developed a comprehensive range of academic and hands-on program experiences to enrich student understanding of the field of educational research methodology in either program evaluation or measurement and quantitative methods. These faculty have received millions of dollars in research funding. They include $1 million from NSF ADVANCE, a three-year award to improve strategies for promoting gender equity at UNCG.

The Quantitative Methods Student Experience

The M.S. in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation is designed for people who are interested in the use of research methods and approaches in applied settings. Much of the graduate-level coursework is offered during evening hours to accommodate individuals who are working during the day.

Students who choose the Measurement and Quantitative Concentration take the additional required core classes:

• ERM 669: Item Response Theory
• ERM 682: Multivariate Analysis

Students supplement their core courses with at least six credit hours of electives. They may choose non-ERM courses with the approval of the major advisor.

After Graduating with Your M.S. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods

The M.S. Quantitative Methods program offers the requisite training for a career providing methodological support to organizations involved in research, program evaluation, and assessment. Students enjoy a range of career options. Many move into research study design, data collection and analysis, program evaluation, and assessment.

Graduates of UNCG’s program have used their degree to support various professions, including education, sociology, psychology, health services, and public policy. They may choose to pursue a doctoral degree in making data-driven decisions.