American Best Education Programs

Graduate schools of education in the United States are critical institutions for preparing the next generation of educators, leaders, and policy makers. Each year, U.S. News & World Report releases its rankings of the top graduate schools in various disciplines, including education. In the 2009 edition, the graduate schools of education from across the country were assessed based on factors like academic reputation, faculty quality, and the breadth and rigor of the programs offered. The top schools in this field are known for their ability to produce impactful research, provide comprehensive training for educators, and prepare students to address the challenges faced by today’s educational systems. Among the institutions listed in this year’s ranking, a few stand out as leaders in the field of education.

At the top of the list is Stanford University, which consistently earns recognition for its graduate programs, not only in education but across a range of disciplines. Stanford’s Graduate School of Education stands as a beacon for educational innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in teaching and learning. Known for its emphasis on research, social justice, and leadership, Stanford equips students with the tools to drive positive change within schools, communities, and educational policy. The school’s faculty includes some of the most influential thought leaders in the field of education, contributing to its top position in these rankings.

Right behind Stanford, Vanderbilt University, with its Peabody College of Education and Human Development, is ranked second. Peabody College is renowned for offering a well-rounded education in both theory and practice. The college’s programs focus on preparing educators, counselors, and policy makers who are ready to tackle the challenges faced by modern schools. The school’s research is widely respected, particularly in areas like special education, educational psychology, and organizational leadership. Vanderbilt’s long-standing reputation for excellence in education, coupled with its unique emphasis on understanding human development, makes it one of the top choices for graduate students in the field.

The third spot in the rankings goes to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), which boasts one of the largest and most diverse Graduate Schools of Education in the country. UCLA’s focus on educational equity, community involvement, and global perspectives sets it apart from many other institutions. The school offers a variety of programs that cover areas such as educational leadership, counseling, and social research, making it an excellent option for students who wish to explore the intersection of education and social justice. The faculty at UCLA are some of the most prominent scholars in the field, contributing to the school’s continued reputation as a leader in educational research and policy.

Following closely behind is Teachers College at Columbia University, a long-standing institution with a deep history in shaping the educational landscape. Teachers College is widely respected for its commitment to both practice and theory in education, offering programs that address the full spectrum of educational challenges. Teachers College is particularly well-known for its work in educational psychology, leadership, and curriculum development, making it an ideal place for students who wish to delve into both the theoretical aspects of education and the practical realities of the classroom. The university also offers strong programs in higher education and policy, areas where it has maintained a leadership role for many years.

At number five in the rankings is the University of Oregon, a school with a particular focus on educational leadership and policy. The College of Education at the University of Oregon is renowned for its cutting-edge research and its commitment to improving educational outcomes through evidence-based practices. The school is especially strong in the areas of educational psychology and special education, and it also offers programs in areas like literacy and instructional technology. With a strong commitment to social justice and equity, the University of Oregon attracts students who are passionate about improving education for all students, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

Harvard University, ranked sixth, is another highly respected institution in the field of education. Harvard’s Graduate School of Education has a rich legacy of academic excellence and thought leadership in education. The school’s programs are highly interdisciplinary, offering students the chance to engage with faculty from various departments within the university, including psychology, sociology, and political science. Harvard’s focus on educational policy, leadership, and global education makes it an excellent choice for those interested in shaping educational systems at a broader level. The university’s extensive resources and networks provide students with the opportunities to engage in high-level research, internships, and leadership development programs.

In seventh place are two schools tied for the rank, the University of California–Berkeley and the University of Washington. Both institutions offer exceptional graduate programs in education, with a focus on social justice, diversity, and community-based learning. UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Education is known for its cutting-edge research in areas such as language and literacy, educational leadership, and policy, while the University of Washington’s College of Education has a strong focus on urban education, counseling, and special education. Both schools offer a dynamic and rigorous academic environment for students, and their proximity to a variety of schools and communities gives students the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings.

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is another key player in the top ten rankings. Known for its broad offerings in education, including programs in teacher preparation, counseling, and educational policy, Michigan’s School of Education is widely respected for its research output and its commitment to improving educational practices. The school’s focus on practical application through internships and fieldwork opportunities ensures that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.

The University of Pennsylvania rounds out the top ten, known for its emphasis on educational leadership, policy, and urban education. The Graduate School of Education at Penn is especially strong in areas like school leadership, teacher preparation, and social studies education. The school’s commitment to improving education at the local and national levels is reflected in its numerous community partnerships and its research on educational equity. Students at Penn benefit from its location in Philadelphia, where they have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences and contribute to ongoing educational reform initiatives.

The final entry in the top ten is the University of Texas-Austin, which has a highly ranked College of Education known for its innovative research and programs in the areas of educational psychology, leadership, and special education. Texas has a long-standing reputation for producing graduates who go on to work in key leadership roles in education, and the university’s commitment to educational research ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

These rankings reflect the diversity of approaches to education in graduate schools, from research-focused programs to those emphasizing practical applications in the classroom and community. Whether students are interested in becoming classroom teachers, educational leaders, or researchers, these institutions offer exceptional opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed. What sets these schools apart is not only their academic excellence but their commitment to addressing the evolving challenges in education and preparing the next generation of educators to make a significant impact in the world.

Best Graduate Schools in Education:
Here's the Top 20 list:
1 Stanford University
2 Vanderbilt University (Peabody)
3 University of California--Los Angeles
4 Teachers College, Columbia University
5 University of Oregon
6 Harvard University
7 Uni of California--Berkeley
7 Uni of Washington
9 Uni of Michigan--Ann Arbor
10 Uni of Pennsylvania
10 Uni of Texas--Austin
12 Northwestern University
12 Uni of Wisconsin--Madison
14 Michigan State Univ
14 New York Univ (Steinhardt)
16 Ohio State Univ
17 Univ of Minnesota--Twin Cities
18 Boston College (Lynch)
19 Indiana Univ--Bloomington
20 Johns Hopkins Univ
Source: US News & World Report (2009)