Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics, Assessment (MESA) online program, M.Ed.
program faq
What are the areas of MESA?
Here are some basic definitions of these terms. Measurement involves the assignment of numbers to objects such that the numbers represent degrees or quantities of unobservable constructs such as attitudes, achievement, self-efficacy, self-esteem, etc. Evaluation involves the systematic collection of information about the activities, characteristics, and outcomes of programs to make judgments about program quality, improve program effectiveness, and/or inform decisions about future program development. Statistics aims at learning the process that generated the data, including learning how a given variable is affected by other variables, and learning about the true (population) distribution of the data. Assessment involves the processes of collecting, synthesizing, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative and qualitative information to aid in decision-making.
What are the job prospects?
Surveys of degree programs and employment agencies conclude that there is high demand for quantitative and qualitative methodologists who can function effectively in research and applied settings.
Who is the program designed for?
The MEd in MESA online program is designed for several student populations: students who want to acquire the knowledge and technical skills needed for entry-level positions in academic institutions, state and federal agencies, school districts, and the testing and evaluation industry (e.g., licensure and certification boards, private and not-for-profit testing organizations); students who eventually wish to pursue doctoral studies in a MESA area; PhD students in education and other fields who want to increase their research skills and enhance their career opportunities by simultaneously enrolling in the MEd in MESA online program; and faculty and other professionals seeking to increase their research skills.
How long is the program?
Students starting the M.Ed in MESA online program in the Fall semester are expected to take two courses per semester for four consecutive semesters.
Can I transfer other coursework I've completed elsewhere into this program?
Up to 8 hours of non-Graduate College program (UIC or non-UIC) with approval of your advisor.
Can I still work and complete this program?
Yes, most students maintain part-time or even full-time employment while pursuing the program.
Do I need a degree in Education to be admitted into this program?
No, a bachelor's degree from any social, behavioral or health-science field would be suitable.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, please visit our Funding Your Education page for more information.
Can applicants apply to any term?
Applications are accepted for the Fall term of each year. Contact the program coordinator for the possibilities of Spring admission.
Can I defer enrollment?
Yes, with the program coordinator's approval.
What are the tuition and fees?
Tuition and fees are currently $695 per credit hour. Note: Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice any time prior to the first day of instruction.
What additional costs are there?
Students will be responsible for purchasing the books associated with each course. Students will also be required to purchase a statistical software package (e.g., SPSS Graduate Pack) and other software required by instructors. We will attempt to use software that have student/trial versions.
Please contact the program coordinator if you require any additional information.