In the MA in Educational Studies, you'll have the flexibility to design a program of study specifically around your interests and goals in Education. The core focus of the program on critical theory allows students to build a course of study grounded in racial and social justice across educational fields. Past students have explored contemplative learning, the intersectionality of identities and education, educational policy, critical theory in STEM education, and disability services in higher education,

Students in the program include K-12 teachers interested in furthering their intellectual and professional development; community activists who see education as key to societal health; and educators in any setting who would like to conduct research on learning and instruction.

Program Outcomes

As a student in the program, you will be matched with faculty advisors who will work with you to create your plan of study, selecting relevant courses from the Department of Education and across the university. You will also have the opportunity to plan internships, independent studies, or projects.

There are many possible topics for your program of study, but some examples include:

Critical Educational Studies: Study race, class, gender, and other categories of identity, culture, and institutional and structural power as they relate to education.
Social-Emotional Learning: Prepare to promote and advocate for students' equitable access to social and emotional learning in schools.
Environmental Studies Education: Study learning in the field of environmental justice and policy.

Application Requirements

Application fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement elaborating on your interest to pursue a MA in Education. What program of study do you have in mind and why? What are your goals? How will the Tufts program help you achieve these goals?
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test, if applicable
Transcripts. One official copy of each of your college transcripts
Three Letters of Recommendation. Collectively the letters should address your capacity to accomplish graduate-level studies.

Tuition & Fees

GSAS bills tuition using a per-credit billing model, meaning you are billed for the number of credits you take each semester. This billing model is used to provide students better flexibility so they may "pay-as-they-go".

Tuition*	$1,299 per credit
Total Credits Required	30
Enrollment Status	Part-Time: 3-6 credits (typically 1-2 courses) Full-Time: 9+ credits (typically 3 or more courses) or qualifying enrollment criteria (assistantships, internships, or continuation courses, etc.)

Estimating Tuition Costs for this Program

This example pathway outlines estimated tuition costs per semester using a typical full-time course load. This is one possible pathway to completion; actual credits, costs, enrollment status, and degree completion time may vary based on a student’s course load.

Full-Time Pathway	Fall	Spring	Total
Year 1	9 credits	9 credits	18 credits
Year 1	$11,691	$11,691	$23,382
Year 2	7 credits	5 credits	12 credits
Year 2	$9,093	$6,495	$15,588
Estimated Total Tuition Before Aid*			$38,970*

Note: this example does not account for any scholarships that may be awarded at the time of admission. GSAS offers generous merit- and need-based tuition scholarships for qualified applicants. A list of funding opportunities is provided below.

*Estimated based on 2026-2027 tuition rates. Rates are subject to change each academic year. For further information about the full cost of attendance, including health insurance, fees, and estimated indirect costs (housing, transportation, etc.), visit Student Financial Services.

Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities

At Tufts University, we believe that every qualified applicant should have the opportunity to pursue graduate study, regardless of financial circumstances. We are committed to helping you navigate the financial aspects of your education and strive to make graduate school accessible through a variety of support options.

Scholarships and Awards Available for this Program

Merit- and need-based tuition scholarships for master’s programs: To be considered, be sure to indicate your interest within the Financial Aid section of your application.
The Future Leaders Fellowship is a full-tuition scholarship for outstanding full-time master’s students and entry-level OTD students. Future Leaders Fellows are selected by the GSAS Dean following their admittance to Tufts.
Fifth Year Master's Degree Program — current Tufts Undergraduates can enroll in this program which has reduced tuition costs and provides a Financial Aid Match with a graduate tuition scholarship proportional to the undergraduate tuition award at the time of application.
City Year Corps members, alumni, and staff are eligible to receive a minimum scholarship award of 25% off tuition.

Work Opportunities and Awards

There are various graduate assistantships and work opportunities available for master’s students across Tufts.
The Graduate Student Open Access Publishing Fund provides financial support to students who want to publish their work open access.
The Graduate Student Research Competition provides funding for expenses including equipment, materials, and supplies; research participant compensation; and expenses of travel to conduct research.
The Graduate Student Conference Reimbursement Fund is available for students to travel to present or attend at a conference or professional meeting.

Visit our Graduate Financial Aid page for information on loans and financing options.