Steinhardt Launches New Master’s Program in Educational Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy

By Timothy Farrell

    Beginning this fall, the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development will offer a 36-point master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy. Designed for students who want to work toward social and educational equity through leadership, policy, and advocacy positions in and around schools, the program will prepare graduates for work in community advocacy centers; policy and research centers; private, charter, and independent schools; and international and domestic non-governmental organizations.

      “The interdisciplinary approach of this new education advocacy graduate program is in keeping with Steinhardt’s mission to produce leaders who can draw from a range of skills to create positive change in their communities,” said Mary Brabeck, dean of Steinhardt.

      The curriculum offers students considerable flexibility. Candidates can pursue multiple paths toward analyzing and critically assessing issues of leadership and policy at the federal, state, and local level, and use multiple approaches to inquiry and research. Each course will examine perspectives such as equity and social justice, the needs of impoverished children, and the implications for leadership within and outside of educational settings.

      “This program was developed for people who want to make a difference in the lives of poor children and youth,” said Colleen Larson, associate professor of educational administration at NYU Steinhardt and director of educational leadership programs.

      Following a core curriculum that includes coursework on organizational theory, advocacy and education, and more, students pursue one of three relevant major foci of the program: leadership, politics, or advocacy, and all participate in internships. Students interested in the program may contact Colleen Larson at colleen.larson@nyu.edu.