General Topics
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.
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.
Do all my materials get sent in together?
No, please read the information under the Application Information – MS & PHD
heading for specific information about where your materials must be sent.
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.
How do I enroll in courses?
The UWM Graduate School sends registration information to you. Registration is
completed online.
Master’s Degree Topics
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.
How many credits are required for the MS?
Students are required to complete 30 credits for the master’s degree. Students
complete 12 credits of core courses, which include ED PSY 624, 724, 720, and
728; 6 credits in Learning and Development; and 12 elective credits, 6 of which
must be in Educational Statistics and Measurement. Students’ programs of study
are developed in consultation with their assigned advisors.
Other than coursework, 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.
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.
What are the criteria for admission?
The Educational Statistics and Measurement 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.
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.
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.
When should I initiate the application process?
Applications are made to the Graduate School and should be initiated as early as
possible. Application deadlines for enrollment during the Spring and Fall semesters are as follows:
- Spring 2023 Deadline: October 1, 2022
- Fall 2023 Deadline: February 15, 2023
Application may be completed online by visiting the UWM Graduate School Panthera webpage.
PhD Topics
What can I do with my degree and what are the job prospects?
Job prospects are excellent for students completing a Ph.D. in the Educational
Statistics and Measurement area. Graduates can find work in academia or in
industry and in a wide variety of settings including universities, state and federal
agencies, test publishing organizations, school systems, state departments of
education, marketing research companies and research centers.
Is a master’s degree required for admission?
No. A master’s degree is not required for admission.
How many credits are required for the PhD?
The total minimum number of credits is 54. These are the minimum credit
requirements but students often exceed this minimum in a typical program of
studies. For further details, refer to the graduate bulletin or the Educational
Statistics and Measurement doctoral handbook at the Educational Psychology
website.
Other than coursework, what else is required?
Students are also required to pass a qualifying exam, pass a preliminary exam
(dissertation proposal hearing), and pass a final oral defense of their dissertation.
For further details, refer to the graduate bulletin.
How long will it take to complete the program?
A full-time student can typically complete the program in 4-5 years. All
requirements MUST be completed within 10 years from the date of initial
enrollment.
What are the criteria for admission?
The Educational Statistics and Measurement Area admits students based upon
their academic records, test scores, breadth of experience, career goals and
letters of reference. All applicants must meet minimum Graduate School
requirements as well as minimum Educational Psychology requirements to
qualify for admission.
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.
Are standardized test (e.g., GRE) scores required?
Yes, scores on the general GRE, taken within the past five years, are required.
When should I initiate the application process?
Applications are made to the Graduate School and should be initiated as early as
possible. Application deadlines for enrollment during the Spring and Fall semesters are as follows:
- Spring 2023 Deadline: October 1, 2022
- Fall 2023 Deadline: February 15, 2023
Application may be completed online by visiting the UWM Graduate School Panthera webpage.