Point Park University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundations in education with quantitative and qualitative research methods, measurement theory and evaluation practice. Core subjects typically include research design, educational measurement and psychometrics, statistics for the social sciences, programme evaluation, test development and validation, data visualisation and reporting, and ethics in research. Students also study curriculum and instruction to understand classroom assessment contexts and courses on assessment for diverse learners and special education.

Program structure commonly includes general education requirements, a sequence of major courses in assessment and research, elective options that allow specialisation (for example, early childhood assessment, literacy assessment or educational policy evaluation), and a capstone experience. The capstone may take the form of a supervised practicum, internship with a school or educational agency, or an applied research project that requires analysing real assessment data and producing an evaluation report.

• Research methods and statistics (descriptive and inferential statistics, regression, ANOVA)
• Educational measurement and psychometrics (reliability, validity, item analysis)
• Programme evaluation (formative and summative designs, logic models)
• Test development and scoring, including practical item-writing and assessment design
• Data management and analysis using common software tools
• Assessment for diverse learners and issues of equity and accessibility
• Ethics, policy and legal aspects of assessment
• Capstone practicum, internship or applied research project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry expectations include a minimum cumulative GPA and submission of a high school transcript. Admissions may request a personal statement demonstrating interest in assessment and research, and at least one academic reference or teacher recommendation. Prior coursework in mathematics (especially statistics) or social sciences is advantageous but not always mandatory. Mature applicants with relevant work experience in education or related fields are considered through the university's established admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge assessment, research and practice. Common career paths include assessment specialist or coordinator in school districts, programme evaluator for educational non-profits or government agencies, data analyst for educational institutions, psychometric technician at testing organisations, and research assistant or associate in higher education or policy research centres. The skill set is also valuable for roles in educational technology companies, curriculum development firms and organisations that require expertise in measurement, accountability and evidence-based decision-making.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park University offers small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, emphasising applied learning and hands-on practicum experiences with partner schools and education agencies in the Pittsburgh region. The programme integrates practical training in current assessment tools and statistical software, and benefits from the university's connections to local school districts, community organisations and cultural institutions. Students gain professional experience through internships and capstone projects, and have access to career services that support placement in education, research and evaluation roles.