Master's and PhD in Educational Research, Measurement & Evaluation - Measurement and Quantitative Methods

Today’s data-rich world demands professionals who can design rigorous research, develop meaningful assessments, and translate complex analyses into actionable insights. UNC Greensboro’s Master’s and Ph.D. in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation with a concentration in Measurement and Quantitative Methods prepares students to become experts in quantitative research, psychometrics, and statistical modeling through a curriculum that blends advanced methodological training with hands-on consulting and research experience. Graduates leave prepared to lead research and assessment initiatives across higher education, school systems, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, testing companies, and other data-driven industries.

Program Distinctions for the Master’s and Ph.D. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods

UNCG’s Master’s and Ph.D. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods integrates practical experience throughout the curriculum through the Office of Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Services (OAERS), where students work on authentic research, evaluation, and assessment projects for local, state, national, and international clients. Applicants are expected to have introductory statistics preparation, but the curriculum is structured to help students build increasingly sophisticated methodological expertise.

Students gain experience with:

• Designing research studies
• Developing assessments
• Conducting statistical analyses
• Evaluating educational programs
• Presenting findings to real clients

This applied consulting model helps students graduate with a professional portfolio rather than coursework alone.

Students learn not only how to analyze data but also how to develop valid instruments and understand the theory behind measurement, skills that are increasingly valuable in assessment, testing, policy, and research organizations.

The program emphasizes close faculty mentorship alongside scholarship. Students work with internationally recognized faculty who 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.

An Accelerated Master’s and Ph.D. pathway

A notable feature of UNCG’s program is the combined Master’s and Ph.D. option, designed for students entering after a bachelor’s degree.

Instead of earning the degrees separately, students complete an integrated curriculum that:

• Eliminates redundant coursework
• Shortens the overall time to the Ph.D.
• Provides a seamless transition into doctoral research

This can be especially attractive for students committed to doctoral study early in their careers.

The Measurement and Quantitative Methods Student Experience

The Measurement and Quantitative Methods concentration includes advanced coursework beyond a general research methods curriculum, including:

• Item Response Theory (IRT)
• Multivariate Analysis
• Educational Measurement Theory
• Validity and Validation
• Intermediate and advanced statistical methods
• Survey research
• Elective specialization in statistical modeling and related methodologies

This prepares graduates for careers involving complex quantitative analysis and not only applied educational research.

The program is designed for people who are interested in the use of research methods and approaches in applied settings. Much of the coursework is offered during evening hours to accommodate individuals who are working during the day.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS for the Master’s and Ph.D. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods

Additional Required Core for the Measurement and Quantitative Methods Concentration: 6 Hours

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

Electives: 6 Hours

• Students must complete a combination of 6 hours in elective courses at the 600 or higher level. Electives may be any ERM courses not included in the required core or non-ERM courses with the approval of the major advisor.

After Graduating with your Master’s and Ph.D. in Measurement and Quantitative Methods

UNCG’s program intentionally prepares graduates for careers in:

• Educational testing organizations
• Government agencies
• School districts
• Higher education
• Research institutes
• Healthcare research
• Public policy
• Nonprofit organizations
• Private-sector analytics and assessment

Graduates develop transferable quantitative skills that apply across numerous fields, including education, psychology, health sciences, and behavioral sciences.