Evaluation, Measurement and Research, MA

• World-Renowned Program: WMU’s EMR program is the oldest graduate program in evaluation in the world, with a rich legacy of excellence.
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Students from all colleges on campus collaborate and learn together, bringing diverse perspectives to every project.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from nationally and internationally recognized faculty who are passionate about teaching and cutting-edge research.
• Hands-On Skills: Gain mastery of evaluation theory, methods, and practical skills to design, lead, and deliver high-impact evaluations.
• Strong Social Science Foundation: Build expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, measurement, and data-driven decision-making.
• Applied Experience: Participate in real-world evaluations and grant-funded research projects, bridging classroom learning with professional practice.
• Career-Ready Training: Develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed for careers in evaluation, research, or academia.

In the EMR Master’s program, students engage in a rigorous blend of foundational theory, applied methods, and advanced analytical skills. Coursework covers the principles of evaluation, measurement, and research design, providing students with the tools to assess programs, policies, and educational initiatives. Students gain expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methods, including survey design, data analytics, and contemporary research trends, while also exploring mixed methods and advanced statistical approaches. Courses emphasize hands-on, applied learning, preparing students to collect, analyze, and interpret data in real-world contexts. A culminating Capstone Project allows students to integrate their knowledge into a comprehensive, advisor-guided research artifact. In addition, students select elective courses—either from EMR advanced offerings or the broader university curriculum—tailored to their professional goals and research interests.

Application Deadline

Apply anytime—the EMR program offers rolling admissions, accepting applications throughout the year.

Application Requirements

To apply to the EMR Master’s program, applicants must submit the following materials:

• Professional Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current document outlining your academic, professional, and research experience.
• Three Letters of Recommendation:
  • Letters must come from three different individuals who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate-level work.
  • Requests are sent electronically through the online application system after you submit your application. Notify your references in advance so they can meet the deadline.
• Personal Narrative:
  • A written statement describing your familiarity with EMR, your professional goals, and how this program aligns with those goals.
  • Should be no more than four double-spaced pages and will serve as a writing sample.
• Official Transcripts:
  • Submit transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
  • Western Michigan University coursework is not required.
• English Language Proficiency (International Applicants Only):
  • Required unless you have completed four years of upper secondary school or one year of full-time university-level education in approved countries.
  • Desired minimum scores: IELTS 7.0; TOEFL CBT 233, PBT 577, or iBT 90 (sub-scores: Reading 22, Listening 20, Speaking 24, Writing 24).
  • Applicants not meeting these scores may be considered if they successfully complete WMU’s CELCIS advanced-level program with a grade of “B” or higher.
• Optional Supporting Materials:
  • Copies of articles, white papers, evaluation reports, or other artifacts demonstrating your scholarship, research, or professional work.

• Cost of attendance
• Scholarships
• CEHD assistantships
• WMU assistantships
• Grants
• Loans
• Employer-paid tuition
• Military and veterans