These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
The Master of Science in Educational Research is a course of study designed to promote the use of action research to inform classroom practice and educate teachers about research methodologies to activate change in public education.
This degree is intended for candidates who already have their initial licensure and at least 3 years of teaching experience in preK-12 public schools. Candidates who are not planning to obtain a teaching license may also pursue this degree.
The Education Department is committed to developing professional scholar-practitioners who are well-versed in current educational theory and practice. The required courses include an introduction to research methods, specific instruction in framing research questions, and qualitative and quantitative data collection and management. During the program, students acquire the skills to conduct classroom research. They collect and analyze data and present the results of their research. Through the Thesis Seminar (EDU 6601) and Master's Thesis (EDU 7960), faculty offer students individualized support as they write their theses.
In addition to the core research courses, Master's candidates select 21 credits of electives in consultation with an advisor. This flexibility allows candidates to explore topics relevant to their classrooms and schools. The Program Plan of Study shows the required core courses and the plan for completing elective credits and addresses which transfer courses will be accepted.
Castleton Center for Schools courses are considered transfer courses for all students wishing to matriculate into a Castleton graduate program in Education. A total of up to 12 credits of Center for Schools credits and other credits from other regionally accredited institutions may be accepted as transfer credits into the M.S. in Educational Research if approved by the faculty advisor.
Code | Course | Credits |
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EDU 6100 |
Introduction to Graduate Education and ResearchThis course is designed to provide an overview of the major discussions and debates in the area of education and research. The main questions this course addresses are: What is education research and what kinds of education research are possible? Objectives of this course include: To develop a deeper understanding of issues surrounding education research; to understand the process of conducting research; to consider the ethics and politics of research; to gain an understanding of the production of knowledge; and to generate potential areas of interest to pursue in the field of education. Fall |
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EDU 6123 |
Qualitative and Quantitative MethodsThis course combines both the qualitative and quantitative methods that may be applied in an authentic action research project. Through the completion of a semester-long research project, students will explore quantitative survey design and analysis as well as qualitative research traditions including action research, case study, grounded theory, and other methodologies as applicable to individual research projects. Ethical considerations and solutions will be considered throughout research development. Prerequisite: EDU 6100 Spring |
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EDU 6245 |
Research Design in EducationResearch Design in Education will build on EDU 6123 Qualitative and Quantitative Methods leading to refinement of research protocols, methodology, and analysis that will be incorporated in thesis research. The process for permission via the Human Subjects Institutional Review Board and additional ethical considerations will be emphasized. The final research proposal will be completed during this semester. Prerequisite: EDU 6100, and EDU 6123 Fall |
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EDU 6601 |
Thesis SeminarThis course supports Masters of Education students in their final semester of the program as they complete their thesis research and writing. The course provides a structure and support for students to come together to analyze data, as well as to write, re-write, and organize the final stages of the thesis project. Students gain valuable research techniques related to qualitative and quantitative analysis and share opportunities to fine-tune their thesis writing and organization. Students read each other's work, offer suggestions for revision, and act as a community of researchers, committed to each other's larger thesis projects and purposes. The course meets bi-monthly for three hours a session. Prerequisite: EDU 6245, Instructor permission required. Spring |
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EDU 7960 |
Master's ThesisAll candidates must write either a 3‐credit or a 6‐credit thesis. A thesis proposal must be completed and approved by the Director of Education prior to the semester in which the research begins. Graduate students must formally register for EDU 7960 according to the published registration deadlines in the same manner as required for any regular course. The thesis is the final project for graduate students. Each student addresses his/her own research question, concludes the writing of a five chapter thesis including the introduction to the hypotheses, literature review, methodology used, results, and discussion of the research and implications for practice and further research. The student will choose and work with a two-reader review panel, revise, and conduct the research with their guidance. A thesis manual is provided. The completed thesis is presented at a symposium to faculty, peers, and invited guests. Each thesis will be bound and housed in the library. Prerequisite: EDU 6245, By permission only. |
Additionally, the candidate chooses 18-21 credits of electives in education and the liberal arts relevant to their educational interests. With the permission of the faculty advisor, the candidate may transfer up to 12 credits from the Center for Schools or other regionally accredited universities.