Education Studies majors critically examine the history, purpose, politics, and consequences of education from an interdisciplinary range of perspectives. The curriculum highlights the dynamic relationship between education and social, economic, and political structures. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own educational journeys and their positions within this wider landscape of educational history, politics, and sociology. Through an emphasis on experiential learning, community-based research, pedagogical innovation, and through collaboration with community partners and the Center for Teaching and Learning, the program creates space for students to imagine and foster alternative educational possibilities.
EDST classes draw on diverse methods of inquiry and innovative pedagogical approaches to familiarize students with educational thought, the expressive and creative dimensions of educational research and practice, and the organization and function of educational institutions in the U.S. and globally. A core feature of the Education Studies program is that it asks students to reach across disciplinary divides—most notably between the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields.
Students can select "Education Studies (EDST)" from the course subject menu in Workday to see a list of all the courses offered by or cross-listed with the program each semester. In addition, students will consult with their Education Studies advisor to identify other courses at Amherst and in the Five Colleges that they can apply towards the major.
Descriptions of EDST courses and other courses relevant to the major can be found here.