The undergraduate program in Education Studies provides a structure for students interested in educational institutions, policy, teaching, and learning. The program also promotes a multidisciplinary understanding of the role of education historically, socially, politically, and economically.
Any Yale College student interested in education may take the foundation course in education studies, EDST 110. This lecture course explores the historical, philosophical, and theoretical underpinnings of the field and helps students understand the critical role of education in society. The course examines aspects of education practice, research, and policy.
While Yale does not offer a teaching certificate program, students can apply to become a Yale Education Studies Undergraduate Scholar. The program selects students with appropriate background and interest in educational practice, research, and/or policy, and develops their experience and involvement in issues related to education.
The Education Studies Undergraduate Scholars program establishes an interdisciplinary cohort of scholars drawn from Yale College freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Each Undergraduate Scholar develops a course plan within the Education Studies curriculum that advances their interests in one of the various aspects of education studies, culminating in a capstone seminar. Undergraduate Scholars gain practical experience through an appropriate academic-year or summer educational opportunity, and they explore educational topics through collaboration, colloquia, and advising relationships with mentors.
Students may apply to the Education Studies Undergraduate Scholars program in their freshman or sophomore year after they have successfully completed the foundation course, EDST 110. The application includes a statement of interest in some aspect of education research, practice, and/or policy; an official or unofficial transcript of courses taken at Yale; and a letter of reference from a Yale College faculty member supporting the student in terms of character, motivation, and academic promise.
