Online Assessment & Evaluation Degree Programs

Throughout our educational system, student learning and progress is determined by educational assessment and evaluation. Testing departments and companies exist to help individuals and schools determine curriculum strength and individual achievement. Because of continual research and new discoveries in this area, college degrees in assessment and evaluation are a popular choice for professionals in the field.

Assessment and evaluation professionals develop methods of assessing student achievement. They perform research, collecting and interpreting data tracking a program's effectiveness. They may assess curricula and propose strategies for improvement. Some assessment professionals develop certification programs or standardized tests. Others consult with organizations to create an internal evaluation system.

College Degrees in Assessment & Evaluation

Educational assessment and evaluation degrees are available at the graduate level, as either a Master of Education (MEd) or a PhD Program names vary based on the emphasis of the program, and include:

• Master of Education in Elementary Curriculum Assessment
• Master of Education in Measurement and Evaluation
• Master of Education in Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
• MEd or PhD in Educational Assessment, Testing, and Measurement

Typical Courses within the Assessment and Evaluation Program

Courses in an assessment and evaluation career training program will vary by program length and degree type. In general, students should take courses in statistics, software, and research procedures. Sample course titles include:

• Curriculum Leadership
• Instructional Strategies
• Educational Technology
• Curriculum Methods for Special Needs Students
• Educational Assessment Research Methods

Assessment and evaluation students develop important research and curriculum development skills. They conduct needs-assessment research, interpreting data to evaluate student progress; define program assessment criteria; create lesson plans that support critical thinking; and design learning strategies. Educational assessment programs may also cover proctoring and program evaluation techniques, allowing graduates to work on an individual level with students or with entire companies and schools.

Benefits of Career Training in Assessment and Evaluation

Graduates of assessment and evaluation career training programs might go on to work in research, course evaluation, or with individual institutions. Businesses may also hire assessment and evaluation professionals for training, hiring, and productivity checks. Professional assessment training can give you the education and experience preferred or required by hiring managers in the field.

Salary estimates vary widely based on the particular job title and employer. Salary.com cites a $63,010 average for education managers and program developers, and $85,369 for educational consultants. The U.S. Department of Labor reports a 2007 median salary of $74,230 for Education Administrators.

Career outlook for program evaluators and educational analysts promises to be strong, as trends in education continue to raise the bar for pedagogical quality. Increased funding, greater public oversight of the school systems, and new educational research and technology will combine to create opportunities for graduates of assessment and evaluation degree programs.

• Education