Master's in Program Evaluation

Organizations across every sector rely on data and evidence to improve programs, demonstrate impact, and make informed decisions. UNC Greensboro’s Master’s in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation with a concentration in Program Evaluation prepares students to lead that work with confidence. Through a blend of rigorous research training, hands-on evaluation experience, and mentorship from nationally recognized faculty, participants learn to design meaningful evaluations, analyze complex data, and communicate actionable insights that drive positive change in education, nonprofits, government, healthcare, and beyond.

Master’s in Program Evaluation Program Distinctions

UNCG’s Master’s in Program Evaluation integrates practical experiences throughout the curriculum. Students complete field experiences, practicums, and internships through the Office of Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Services (OAERS), working with real clients and real evaluation projects. These opportunities expose students to local, national, and international organizations.

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. Students benefit from faculty who are active scholars while also mentoring students through applied projects and professional development.

This program builds expertise across three complementary areas:

• Research methodology
• Educational measurement and assessment
• Program evaluation

This broader methodological foundation helps graduates become stronger evaluators who can design studies, collect high-quality evidence, analyze data, and communicate findings to decision-makers.

The Program Evaluation Student Experience

The curriculum of UNCG’s program includes flexibility through electives that allow students to deepen expertise in specialized methodological areas. This combination is particularly valuable for employers seeking evaluators who can manage projects at every stage, from design through reporting.

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. For students considering advanced research careers, the master’s curriculum aligns closely with UNCG’s Ph.D. in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation. This creates a seamless pathway for students who decide to continue into doctoral study while also providing a complete professional credential for those entering the workforce after the master’s degree.

Additional PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS for the Master’s in Program Evaluation

Additional Required Core for the Program Evaluation Concentration: 6 Hours

• ERM 643: Applied Educational Evaluation
• ERM 645: Culturally Responsive Approaches to Research and Evaluation

Electives: 6 Hours

Students must complete a combination of six 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 in Program Evaluation

This program offers the requisite training for a career providing methodological support to organizations involved in research, program evaluation, and assessment. The emphasis on transferable research and evaluation skills broadens career opportunities beyond traditional educational settings. Students completing the program have a range of career options in sectors such as:

• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• School districts
• Assessment and testing organizations
• Research firms
• Healthcare organizations
• Higher education
• Public policy organizations