As our world continues to digitize, the need to collect, analyze, interpret, store, and use data increases. In the education world, for better or worse, testing and data are driving decisions more and more as schools seek to be evidence-driven and governing bodies seek accountability. Who creates those tests? Who collects the data and what do they do with it? How is the data used and how do schools implement research into school policy? Or student learning? The answer is that a great many people do. Their job titles vary and include: Educational psychologists, statisticians, research analysts, or psychometricians. These data-interested, quantitatively-motivated souls design testing instruments and systems, gather and assess data, manage databases and other programs to evaluate data and/or prepare reports,conduct studies and surveys, and advise educational policy boards.
To qualify for work in assessment and evaluation requires graduate work. Historically the Master’s of Assessment, Measurement, and Evaluation was a psychology degree, however, with data now driving decisions, the assessment degree has expanded into other fields. The Master’s (MEd, MA, or MS) in Educational Assessment, Measurement, and Evaluation focuses on the application of data-analysis, assessment tools, qualitative and quantitative research, psychometrics, statistics, and evaluation in educational settings for the purpose of improving student learning and institutional effectiveness. Each of the nation’s 16,000 school districts and each of the 50 state education departments collects large quantities of data to assess the impact of schooling in its community; in addition to these there are many state and federal data-collection programs that are driving demand for highly-skilled analysts and directors.
What goes into a Master’s in Educational Assessment, Measurement, and Evaluation (EAME)?
A master’s (MEd, MA, or MS) in EAME is focused on the foundational knowledge and skills in assessing learning, both individually and institutionally, measuring and analyzing data, and evaluating data through testing, surveys, and other techniques of collecting it. The purpose of practitioners is to improve student learning by improving institutional effectiveness. Since the degree is interdisciplinary it draws from social science, research design, and psychology. Historically the EAME degree had a social science and psychology focus, however, now the demand for highly-skilled analysts has spilled into many areas from K-12 schools, institutions of higher learning, government agencies, testing companies, and the corporate world. Coursework includes classes in:
- psychometrics
- qualitative/quantitative measurement or research
- statistics
- multivariate analysis
- classical test theory
- designing evaluation instruments or technology
- educational courses in ethics, assessment, or learning environments
A master’s degree in EAMA is 30-45 credits and usually involves a capstone research project or thesis where the knowledge learned is applied in a real-world scenario. Some degrees under the EAME umbrella are Educational Diagnostics, a specifically EAME degree for special education settings, mostly focused on individuals, and Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Leadership with an assessment focus.
What is the job outlook for an EAME degree?
Organizations such as the American Statistical Association and the National Science Foundation report jobs are plentiful and satisfying. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the field is projected to grow 27 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS states: ” Growth is expected to result from more widespread use of statistical analysis to make informed business, healthcare, and policy decisions.”
Graduate work in EAME can prepare you for a job as a researcher and analyst in several fields, including: academic institutions, state and federal agencies, school districts, the testing and evaluation industry, marketing research, and large-scale test management.
Possible jobs and median salaries (according to Payscale or Bureau of Labor Statistics) include:
- College and university professors – $84,632
- Director of Assessment and Accreditation – $73,099
- Research Analyst, staff members in research and evaluation divisions in public schools, government agencies, and private corporations and foundations.- $51,754
- Psychometricians – $78,603
- Educational Diagnostician – $57,857
- Postsecondary Education Administrators – $90,760
- Quality Assurance Manager – $74,921
- Statistician- $80,500
What are best degrees in EAME?
The answer to this depends on what you’re looking for. The best degrees fit your needs and goals. Most people seeking an online EAME program are seeking career advancement, though the degree is accessible to those with little to no experience. If you’re seeking to move from a master’s to a PhD, be sure the degree is not terminal and lean towards MS degrees. If you want to move up in your job, a graduate certificate may work. If your skills are geared toward leadership, look for EAME programs that include coursework in leadership or educational administration. Those more inclined to dealing with hard-data, designing systems of data, be sure to check that coursework includes statistics, multivariate analysis, classic test theory, and psychometrics.
What is your methodology for ranking the schools on the list?
Our methodology relies on statistics collected by the National Center for Education Statistics found in the IPEDS database such as graduation rate, tenure, endowment per student, etc. In addition to IPEDS we utilize reputable ranking organizations such as U.S. News and World Report, the NCTQ, and Payscale.com to determine average salaries and job outlook, and for this ranking, the American Evaluation Association. Program descriptions are written based on the school’s website for the degree. Our researchers gather the most relevant information to communicate the most effective help to those seeking to find the best school
For the 10 Most Affordable Master’s in Assessment, Measurement, and Evaluation we solely compared cost per credit hour. The only programs considered were programs that offer a Master’s degree. Certificate programs were not included, although they are included in the online ranking.
1.University of Illinois at Chicago
The University of Illinois at Chicago is “dedicated to the discovery and distribution of knowledge.” UIC is located on 240 urban-acres in Chicago, Illinois and enrolls 29,000 students, making it the largest university in the Chicago. Known for research, the School offers 85 bachelor’s, 98 master’s, and 65 doctoral degrees.
If you are looking for a career in research, assessment, and measurement in school districts, academic institutions,state and federal agencies, healthcare, testing organizations, or even private businesses, UIC is worth consideration. The online Master of Education in Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment is provides flexibility, academic rigor and online convenience, a desirable combination in today’s world. The program is 32 credits and typically takes about two years to complete with part-time attendance. Nationally-recognized faculty guide, teach, and mentor students through four major psychometric paradigms: Item Response Theory, Rasch Measurement, Generalizability Theory and Classical Test Theory. Perfect for someone with no experience or for a seasoned professional, the distance format is entirely online with no campus visits required.
UIC’s ranking by U.S. News and World Report for Best Education School is #24 and for Best Graduate Online Schools is #10 creating assurance the program is of the highest quality. Tuition per credit is $351, the lowest on our list, and mid-career salary is $102,000 making the cost very doable and the ROI outstanding.
2. Georgia State University
Located in downtown Atlanta and bustling with the activity of 53,000 students is Georgia State University. The largest of the schools in the University System of Georgia means GSU leaves a big footprint. The University is known for research and diversity and it offers 100 fields of study and 250 degree programs.
Earning your MS in Educational Research through the Georgia ONmyLINE (GOML) program is convenient, flexible, and dependable. The degree features the most relevant training in quantitative analysis, educational methodology, statistics, measurement, program evaluation, survey research, computer applications, and qualitative research. Knowing you are taught the same program as on-campus degrees and the fact that your diploma will not indicate “online” degree, leads to confidence in your hireability. Jobs are plentiful for educational researchers in academic settings, but also for public agencies, testing services, healthcare, and private industry. The MS in ER through GOML program is 36 credit hours, with the potential of nine transfer credits. Besides preparing you for career advancement, it also sets the stage for continued work at the doctoral level.
Georgia State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Knowing the flat rate tuition per credit is $385, the second lowest of our top 20, and the mid-career salary of $126,000 adds further confidence that GSU could be the place for you.
3. University of South Florida
The University of South Florida, or USF, is a research institution with a main campus in Tampa, and regional campuses in Sarasota and St. Petersburg. Founded in 1956, today there are a total of 42,000 students.
The College of Education at USF offers M.Ed., Ed.S., and Ph.D. programs in Measurement and Evaluation as well as graduate certificates in Evaluation, Qualitative Research in Education, and Quantitative Research in Education. The program is designed to prepare students for leadership in the fields of educational policy and practice at the local, state, national, and international levels. Graduates go on to positions such as Directors of Accountability and Assessment, Supervisors of Testing, Evaluation and Research in school districts; faculty positions in public and private colleges, universities, and community colleges, research positions in state departments of education and other governmental agencies, and measurement positions in state and national testing organizations. Because of the variety of degrees offered, there are many paths for students to advance their education in this growing field.
The University of South Florida is ranked #93 in Best Education Schools by U.S. News and World Report and scored 36/100 in their overall score. The cost per credit is the lowest on the list at only $431 and the average mid-career salary is $114,000, making the return on investment one of the best.
4. University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
Located in the twin cities Champaign-Urbana, University of Illinois enrolls over 40,000 students. Their mission reads: “With our land-grant heritage as a foundation, we pioneer innovative research that tackles global problems and expands the human experience.” In step with their mission, University of Illinois does just that.
The University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign offers various degrees in Interpretive, Statistical, Measurement, and Evaluative Methodologies for Education, referred to as “Queries.” The Queries program focuses on these four specializations; faculty and students are concerned with developing and applying new methodologies and becoming involved with multiple research activities, both within the Department and the College, as well as across the larger campus. Upon graduation, students find positions in the public and private sector including measurement analysts, testing and evaluation directors, statistical specialists, and University faculty. Queries offers both a Master of Sciences or a Doctor of Philosophy through the Department of Educational Psychology.
The University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign is ranked #24 in Best Education Schools by U.S. News and World Report and scored 63/100 in their overall score. The cost per credit is a low $452 and with $102,000 as an average mid-career salary, there is no doubt that the University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign belongs at #2.
5. University of Iowa
With just over 31,000 students, the University of Iowa is one of the nation’s top public research universities, a member of the Big Ten conference since 1899, and an Association of American Universities member since 1909.
The MA in Educational Measurement and Statistics will qualify you to teach at the university level, analyze and interpret quantitative data, independently conduct research and communicate findings to various audiences, design assessments, and apply complex quantitative information in making policy decisions. The U of I degree is 32 hours and is offered with or without a thesis; a thesis is recommended for those intending to move into a PhD program in the field. The non-thesis version is offered completely online or on campus. Both thesis and non-thesis versions require a six-hour comprehensive exam. Admission requirements includes a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.00, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. It should be noted that this program is offered both online and on-campus.
Ranked #43 for Best Education Schools by U.S. News and World Report and with the best ROI on our list, U of I may be the perfect fit for you to advance in your career or move into a different position fitting for your goals. The tuition is $504 and the mid-career salary is $120,000.
6. Northern Illinois University
With a quarter of a million alumni around the country and world, Northern Illinois University is making an impact. Founded in 1895 and located in DeKalb, Illinois, 65 miles west of Chicago, NU offers 19,000 students 57 undergraduate majors and 69 graduate programs. The University has satellite centers in Chicago, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, Rockford, and Oregon.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Educational Research and Evaluation is offered face-to-face, online, and hybrid. Some choice is built into the degree with a general track or with an area of study in advanced quantitative methods, in assessment, or in program evaluation. The
ERE program is 36 credits and features a practicum experience, thesis or project or portfolio, and a comprehensive exam. You will learn to plan and design educational evaluations, implement and interpret qualitative and statistical data analytic procedures, and relate the findings to educational and social science policy.The intention of the degree is for working professionals, however, undergraduates and those with little experience in the field are admitted. Up to 15 transfer credits can apply towards your degree at NU.
The University is ranked #4 by U.S. News and World Report for Best Online Graduate Education. Tuition is low at $520 per credit, and when you look at the mid-career salary of $114,000, you can bet on the fact that NU is a solid choice.
7. Western Michigan University
Home to 23,500 students, Western Michigan University is a public university that was founded in 1903. It is located in the city of Kalamazoo and offers more than 140 undergraduate programs, as well as many graduate degrees through the Hawarth College of Business, the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the College of Education and Human Development.
The Master of Arts in evaluation, measurement and research in the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology at Western Michigan University is designed to prepare you for staff positions in evaluation, testing or research units in schools or non-school organizations. Students will take basic courses in applied statistics, evaluation, measurement, and qualitative and quantitative research methods. Completion of the program requires 27 credits, and a capstone portfolio experience. The portfolio will demonstrate the student’s ability to apply the principles and techniques learned from the core courses.
Ranked #120 for Best Education Schools by U.S. News and World Report and an overall score of 29/100, the University isn’t the highest ranked on the list, but the ROI makes it worth considering. The tuition is $554 and the mid-career salary is $98,500.
8. National Louis University
Founded in 1886 National-Louis University offers over 60 undergraduate programs through two colleges: The National College of Education and the College of Professional Studies and Advancement. NLU’s main campus is in Chicago, Illinois, but NLU also has locations in and near Chicago, as well as in Wisconsin, Florida and Nowy Sącz, Poland; the School serves 8000 total students.
The M.Ed. in Teaching, Learning, and Assessment at NLU is offered online, on-campus, or blended for ultimate flexibility and convenience. The Degree can lead to National Board Certification and has the option of adding a Teacher Leader Endorsement. The unique focus of the MEd in TLA is the combination of becoming an expert in differentiated and formative learning and in educational assessment and research. Whether you are a seasoned teacher seeking advancement or an undergrad finding a career path, NLU’s TLA program provides you a path forward. It should be noted that admission to the TLA with Teacher Leader Endorsement requires two years teaching experience. The Degree is 32 credits and does require a research project.
Perhaps the most attractive aspect of NLU’s program is the cost and long-term investment; tuition is $685 and the mid-career salary is $74,600. If the unique combination of teaching and learning with assessment and research is what you’re looking for, NLU may be the ideal fit.
9. University of Florida
With approximately 37,000 undergraduates and 16,000 graduate students, the University of Florida is a sizable university offering ample choice and flexibility. Research is a focus with a record $724 million last fiscal year. Commendable and pleasantly surprising, 56 percent of students graduate with no student loan debt.
The MA in Education of Research and Evaluation Methodology with a major in Program Evaluation in Educational Environments at UF is offered through the College of Education. The online format is convenient and the long-term investment is worth the cost. The degree features a focus on theory-based practices and knowledge for researching, assessing, and applying evaluation in educational settings, but also social work, public health and medicine, non-profit organizations and businesses. Coursework includes Evaluation of Educational Products and Systems, Designing and Conducting Qualitative Research, and Evaluation Communication and Ethics in Educational Environments culminating in a master’s project that synthesizes the theory, knowledge, and skills gained the coursework. Admission considers a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, relevant work and/or life experiences, undergraduate GPA and GRE scores.
The impeccable reputation for online graduate education and a #1 ranking from US News and World Report for Best Online Graduate Education is part of why UF is first on our list. The other major criteria is financial, which UF excels at. Their tuition per credit is $690, which is very affordable, but even more attractive is the average mid-career salary of $152,000, the highest on our list.
10. University of North Texas
The first building on the University of North Texas campus was the Normal Building, completed in 1891 where a fence kept out straying livestock. Now one of the nation’s largest public research universities with 37,000 students and offers degrees in 100 bachelor’s, 83 master’s, and 37 doctoral programs.
Delivered entirely online for maximum flexibility and convenience, UNT’s MS in Educational Psychology, Concentration in Research & Evaluation prepares graduates for careers in educational institutions as researchers, evaluators, and leaders in bringing effective change to organizations. Since the degree is 100 percent online, it is very adaptable, whether you decide to enter full-time or part-time. In only two summers and an academic year (15 months) the degree can be completed; however, if you want to focus on summers and minimize classes during the academic year due to your work schedule, that is a feasible option. Curriculum includes knowledge and skills in the nature of research, evaluation and analysis, assessment of individuals and programs, descriptive and inferential statistics and more.
The University of North Texas offers convenience and adaptability as well as an outstanding reputation and affordability that can’t be beat. U.S. News and World Report ranks UNT #13 in Best Graduate Online Schools and tuition is doable at $710 per credit. The $113,000 mid-career salary tops off the UNT experience.
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