Master’s Programs
The Lynch School is consistently ranked among the top 25 schools of education and as the top-ranked Catholic school of education in the country. Theory, research, and practice are integrated across programs, which also leverage the robust practicum opportunities available in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and universities in the Boston metropolitan area. The Lynch School’s focus on expanding social justice is a hallmark of our programs and the work of our students and faculty.
The Lynch School has five departments:
Explore Our Master's Programs
Applied Statistics & Psychometrics, M.S.
Use advanced data analysis and statistical expertise to improve evidence-based organizational decision-making and practices.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Exposure to the latest trends in psychometric theory and research.
- Internships with national organizations such as ACT, ETS, and Cognia.
- Coursework focused on organizational, educational, and behavioral improvement and equity through evidence-based research.
Careers
- Educational Researcher
- Educational Consultant
- Principal Psychometrician
- Project Analyst
- Educator
- Institutional Researcher
Curriculum & Instruction, M.Ed.
Enhance your knowledge of curriculum, policy, and pedagogy thorough an exploration of educational philosophy and the political, social, and philosophical underpinnings of teaching and learning.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students develop a personalized program of study with their advisor to fit their professional goals.
- Examine approaches to multicultural education, anti-racist education, and inclusion that aim to transform the curriculum.
Careers
- School Leader (Principal, Assistant Principal, etc.)
- Teacher Leader (Dean of Faculty, Academic Coordinator, etc.)
- ELL Coordinator
- Teacher
- Program Coordinator
Data Science, M.S.
Apply technical methods and consulting skills to address the needs of organizations and communities, preparing both experienced professionals and recent college graduates for rewarding careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Approach data science with a human-centered mindset by centering ethics, bias, and security and privacy issues that can influence findings and subsequent decision-making.
- An online part-time program designed for students to leave the program with evidence of their skills by having a body of work to show employers through a capstone project.
- Opportunities to learn in small class sizes and interactive programming incorporating discussions, reflections, and case studies.
Careers
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Engineer
- Data Analyst/Consultant
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Research Scientist
Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars, M.Ed.
As part of an intensive one-year (18-month) M.Ed. program that leads to licensure, Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars learn how to flourish as K–12 teachers in urban schools through a curriculum that prioritizes critical inquiry, social justice education, and community building.
Programs
- Donovan Scholars select the desired program from the list below which correlates with a state license. You may choose any state to become licensed in and will complete the appropriate assessment(s).
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Moderate Special Needs
- Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars provides interactive urban education seminars, critical inquiry research, social justice education, and community building that is responsive to the academic and socio-cultural needs of urban youth and their families.
Highlights
- Cohort-based
- Substantial Financial Aid
- Tailored Seminars and Experiential Learning
Dual Degrees
Take advantage of strengths across Boston College with programs that offer a Lynch School degree and a degree from another Boston College school.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Degree are offered in tandem to allow for an accelerated timeline.
- Student must be accepted to each degree individually.
Dual Degrees
- Higher Education, M.A. & Business, M.B.A.
- Counseling, M.A. & Theology & Ministry, M.A.
- Education, M.A. or M.Ed. & Law, J.D.
Early Childhood Education, M.Ed.
Nurture a diverse range of pre-K–2 students with authentic and meaningful teaching in this licensure program.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Curriculum includes courses such as Science Play and Learning, and Arts and Music.
- Benefit from the close relationship with Boston College Children's Center and Saint Columbkille Partnership School.
- Graduates become eligible for initial licensure in Massachusetts.
Careers
- Pre-K Teacher
- Kindergarten Teacher
- First Grade Teacher
- Second Grade Teacher
- Assistant Principal of Academics
Educational Leadership & Policy, M.Ed.
Assume a leadership role in educational systems serving students, families, and communities.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Draw on social-justice values and leadership strategies to boldly improve equitable opportunities for traditionally marginalized students.
- Tailor your education and concentrate in Educational Policy Development or Social Justice Leadership.
- Licensure track leading to school principal licensure.
Careers
- School Principal
- Researcher
- Dean of Students
- Superintendent
- School Vice Principal
Elementary Education, M.Ed.
Prepare to teach the elementary grades in an ethical, culturally proficient, skilled, and collaborative way.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students develop skills to work with diverse range of children, while utilizing knowledge of instructional practices and perspectives on children, schools, and society.
- Graduates are eligible for initial licensure in Massachusetts.
Careers
- Classroom Teacher (Grades 1-6)
- Assistant Principal
- Research Assistant
- Educational Advocate
- Educator at Non-Profit Organizations
Global Perspectives: Teaching, Curriculum, and Learning Environments, M.Ed.
Learn to apply global perspectives to benefit students in a variety of educational settings, including international schools.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students explore educational viewpoints across a wide range of cultures and countries.
- Conduct action research to address problems encountered in your educational setting.
- Opportunities to hear worldwide guest speakers provide insights on global education trends.
Careers
- Teachers
- Principals
- Program Directors
- Action Researchers
- School Administrators
Higher Education, M.A.
Develop expertise in student affairs, administration, international higher education or Catholic universities in one of the first higher education graduate programs in the country.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Choose one of four concentrations:
- Administration
- Student Affairs
- International Perspectives
- Spirituality, Faith, and Formation.
- Develop expertise in critical issues facing higher education.
- Graduate assistantships are integral to the program as they provide valuable professional experience while reducing the financial burden on students.
Careers
- College Student Affairs
- College Admissions
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Higher Education Leadership
- Institutional Advancement
- International Programs
Jesuit Education in a Global World, M.Ed.
Utilize an Ignatian and international lens to best meet the needs of global and diverse students.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Apply Jesuit teaching and curricular practices that improve life opportunities for students in diverse global contexts.
- Engage in action research to solve a problem of practice.
- This program is affiliated with Boston College's Institute for Advanced Jesuit Studies.
Learning, Design, and Technology, M.A.
Prepare to design engaging and effective learning experiences that are informed by the learning sciences and incorporate cutting-edge technologies.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students gain hands-on design experience, interdisciplinary knowledge, and technical skills in learning design and technology.
- You'll directly apply the skills, theories, and models you learn in class in hands-on settings, culminating in an applied experiences project.
Careers
- Learning Engineer
- Learning Experience and User Experience Designer
- Instructional Designer or Evaluator
- Curriculum Developer
- Educational Technology Consultant
- Corporate Training and Development Manager
Mental Health Counseling, M.A.
Prepare to serve the mental health needs of individuals, groups, communities, and systems across contexts and cultures, and to promote and advocate for social change.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students develop strong counseling skills, engage in reflective scholarship, and master scientifically informed best practices.
- Year-long practicum in community health centers, schools, hospitals, or treatment programs.
- Options for Massachusetts Licensure (60 credits) or Non-Licensure (48 credits) program track.
Career
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
- Research Health Science Specialist
- In-home Family Therapist
- Substance Abuse Clinician
- Psychologist
Research and Evaluation Methods, M.A.
Develop data-driven skills to improve organizational decision-making and conduct vital evaluations to examine processes and outcomes.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students have hands-on opportunities to work on applied research and evaluation projects in a variety of settings including K-12 and higher education, social services, and public health.
- Learn ways to develop and conduct studies that honor the perspectives and experiences of marginalized populations.
- Wide selection of electives make the program customizable for each student.
Careers
- Educational Researcher
- Educator
- Data Analyst
- Evaluation Specialist
- Consultant
- Institutional Researcher
School Counseling, M.A.
Become an advocate who utilizes evidence-based practices to promote positive development for all children and adolescents.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Program promotes a “whole child” approach to counseling where graduates consider both the in-school and out-of-school factors that impact students.
- Our 48-credit track meets current Massachusetts requirements for initial licensure.
Career Paths
- Elementary School Guidance Counselor
- Middle School Guidance Counselor
- High School Guidance Counselor
- College Admissions
- College Counseling
Secondary Education, M.Ed.
Prepare to teach grades 8-12 in one of the following disciplines: Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, or Physics.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Content area electives allow students to create a personalized program in their content area.
- Students learn how to teach for social justice and reflect on their practice as a means to enrich their teaching and lesson planning skills.
- Graduates are eligible for initial licensure in Massachusetts.
Careers
- High School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- Lead Teacher
- Assistant Principal
Special Education Licensure Programs
As schools become more inclusive, the Lynch School offers a variety of single and dual degree/dual licensure master's programs in mild/moderate and extensive support needs.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Students are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including a fully inclusive classroom.
- Benefits of the dual degree/dual licensure programs: practicum experience meeting both licensure requirements, accelerated program of study.
Program Options
- Moderate Support Needs
- Extensive Support Needs
- Moderate and Extensive Support Needs
- Elementary Education and Moderate Support Needs
- Elementary Education and Extensive Support Needs
- Secondary Education and Extensive Support Needs
Please note: The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education for Extensive Support Needs and all dual licensure programs with Extensive Support Needs (Moderate and Extensive Support Needs, Extensive and Elementary, Extensive and Secondary) will not be accepting applications in the 2025 application cycle.
Urban Catholic Teacher Corps, M.Ed.
Urban Catholic Teacher Corps (UCTC) actively engages in the ministry of teaching in the schools of the Archdiocese of Boston. UCTC provides an academically rigorous and experientially rich urban Catholic teacher preparation based on the 500-year-old Jesuit tradition of formative education.
Programs
- Urban Catholic Teaching Corps (UCTC) trains students who want to intentionally and actively participate in formation as Catholic school teachers in urban settings. UCTC offers participants the opportunity for weekly faith sharing, three retreats a year, spiritual direction, pilgrimages, and full engagement in community living.
- UCTC members complete a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction and commit to a two-year teaching practicum in Boston’s Catholic schools serving urban students.
- Students who have completed a year in the Urban Catholic Teacher Corps are able to apply for dual degree programs throughout their educational journey
- M.A. in Theology & Ministry
- M.Ed. in Educational Leadership & Policy
Highlights
- Cohort-based
- Substantial Financial Aid
- Tailored Seminars and Experiential Learning