Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions from past prospective students regarding the master's program in Research & Evaluation.

1. How many credits are required for the M.S. in Educational Psychology with a Research Methodology concentration?
Students are required to complete 30 credits for the master's degree. Students complete 9 credits of core educational psychology courses (typically in the area of Learning and Development), 15 credits in research and evaluation beyond Introductory Statistics, and 6 elective credits. A student's program of studies should be developed in consultation with his or her assigned advisor.

 

2. Other than course work, what else is required?
In addition to coursework, students are required to either write a thesis, approved by their advisor, or pass a written comprehensive examination. 

3. How long will it take to complete the program?
Students have five years to complete the program. Length of time to degree varies depending upon the number of credits taken per semester, but a full time student can typically complete the program in two years.

4. What are the criteria for admission?
The Research Methodology Area admits students based on their academic records, breadth of experience, career goals and three letters of reference. All applicants must meet minimum Graduate School requirements as well as minimum Educational Psychology requirements to qualify for admission.

5. How many units may be transferred from another graduate program?
Up to 12 semester credits, taken within the past 5 years may be transferred if the credits are accepted by the Graduate School and are approved by one's advisor.

6. Are standardized test (e.g., GRE) scores required?
Standardized test scores are generally not required, but in the absence of standardized test scores students will have to otherwise demonstrate their readiness for graduate work in this area.

7. Will I receive confirmation that my application is complete?
No. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that his or her application is complete.

8. Who can serve as references? Are there special forms?
References should be obtained from individuals who are familiar with your academic and professional record such as former professors or employers. There are no special forms.

9. When should I initiate the application process?
Students apply to the Graduate School and applications should be initiated as early as possible. Application may be completed online at http://www.graduateschool.uwm.edu/students/prospective/admission/ .

10. Are Graduate School application deadlines the same as the Research Methodology Area application deadlines?
No. The Graduate School deadlines are campus-wide recommendations. The Research Methodology Area accepts students on a rolling admissions basis, but students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

11. Do all my materials get sent in together?
No, please click on the toolbar link entitled "Application Process" for specific information about where your materials must be sent.

12. How do I enroll in the courses?
The UWM Graduate School sends registration information to you. Registration is completed online.

13. How much does a 3-credit hour course cost? How much is full-time study?
The Accounts Receivable Office and Cashier's Office can answer questions concerning cost at 414-229-4914 or bursar@bfs.uwm.edu.

14. Is financial aid available through assistantships?  

Assistantships are available, although doctoral students have priority when an assistantship becomes available. Students who are qualified for the Ph.D. program are strongly encouraged to apply to that program.

 

15. How can I get other financial aid?
Financial aid information can be obtained from the Financial Aid Office at 414-229-4541 or http://www.uwm.edu/Dept/FINAID/

16. What is the difference between the master's and doctoral programs?

Both programs require that students gain expertise in educational statistics and measurement techniques. The master's program focuses on the application of various quantitative techniques, providing students with the skills to perform analyses and interpret statistical information in a variety of settings. The doctoral program focuses on the research of various quantitative techniques, providing students with the skills to conduct research on the development and application of mathematical and statistical models for educational and behavioral data, including the development of new methods and the improvement of existing methods.

 

17. What can I do with my degree and what are the job prospects?
Students completing the Master's Degree are capable of participating in applied research projects, translating research findings for application in educational settings, designing and building assessment instruments, and assisting professional educators with analyses and interpretations of data. Graduates can find work in a wide variety of settings, including state and federal agencies, test publishing organizations, school systems, state departments of education, marketing research companies and research centers.