MA in Research Methodology
We believe that data tells the story of the human experience
In Loyola's Research Metholodology Program, we look at numbers in context. Unlike in math or statistics, where a number is the final answer, we know that numbers tell a story. We challenge our students to use data to highlight the systematic and personal characteristics that contribute to social inequities and leverage the findings to devise ways to offset those inequities.
Our Commitment to You
Upon graduation with a master of arts degree in research methodology from Loyola, you will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary to commence work as data analysts, evaluators, or institutional researchers for academic institutions, professional organizations, testing companies, and consulting agencies.
Knowledge
You will develop expertise in evaluation, statistics, and measurement, and recognize when research findings are being misrepresented or data misused. You'll also learn how numbers relate to action, policy, and advocacy.
Skills
You will be able to critically evaluate bodies of knowledge from a variety of methodological traditions, use a variety of software programs to implement analyses, and assist with all stages of a research study in applied settings.
Professional Values
We strive to ensure that our graduates never lose sight of the humanity that number reflect, and become responsible researchers whose conclusions align with their findings. You will engage in ethical, just, and culturally competent research practices.
Program Faculty
Our dedicated Research Methodology Faculty are experts in their fields who will support students throughout each stage of the program.
Curriculum
Completion of the MA degree program requires 24 semester hours of graduate credit. Up to 12 semester hours may be accepted for previously completed work.
Program Length
A full-time student enrolled in three courses per semester can complete the coursework in three semesters. The time for the thesis will vary depending on the nature of the student's research agenda. Students have five years from acceptance to complete the program.
Continuous Enrollment
Master's students in research methodology are required to maintain continuous enrollment during their program of studies. This means that during each semester of each academic year (excluding Summer Sessions), each student must enroll in at least one course. A formal leave of absence may be granted upon request and the approval of the School of Education’s Associate Dean of Student Academic Services.
Degree Requirements
Required Courses (12 Semester Hours)
- RMTD 400: Research Methods in the Social Sciences
- RMTD 404: Introduction to Educational Statistics
- RMTD 420: Educational Research I: Building a Body of Evidence with Qualitative Methods
- RMTD 421: Educational Research I: Building a Body of Evidence with Quantitative Methods
Electives
Elective Courses (12 Semester Hours)
Students choose up to four electives. At least one elective must be taken in a substantive area of the social sciences with approval from the student's advisor. This course is usually in the area that the student would like to apply research methods (e.g., Higher Education, Social Work, or Curriculum and Instruction). Students choosing to do a thesis will do so as part of their electives.
Thesis: Students can choose to complete a thesis as part of their electives. Students completing a thesis should choose one of the following areas to focus their work: higher education, social work, or curriculum and instruction.
Certificate Opportunities
In addition to their program curricula, students are encouraged to explore opportunities to gain enhanced credentials through our certificate programs. The following certificates help to complement the MA in Research Methodology and can help students to get ahead of the curve and meet the constantly evolving field of education.
Admission Requirements
Interested in applying? Check out the MA Research Methodology application requirements.
Contact
- For application related questions, contact Graduate Enrollment Management.
- For program structure and academics related questions, contact: Ken Fujimoto, Program Chair
Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships
The School of Education and Loyola's Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their education at Loyola affordable. You can learn more on the Financial Assistance page.
Curriculum
Completion of the MA degree program requires 24 semester hours of graduate credit. Up to 12 semester hours may be accepted for previously completed work.
Certificate Opportunities
In addition to their program curricula, students are encouraged to explore opportunities to gain enhanced credentials through our certificate programs. The following certificates help to complement the MA in Research Methodology and can help students to get ahead of the curve and meet the constantly evolving field of education.
Admission Requirements
Interested in applying? Check out the MA Research Methodology application requirements.
Contact
- For application related questions, contact Graduate Enrollment Management.
- For program structure and academics related questions, contact: Ken Fujimoto, Program Chair
Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships
The School of Education and Loyola's Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their education at Loyola affordable. You can learn more on the Financial Assistance page.