Urban Education at Temple University
Program Philosophy
Addressing important issues and solving pressing educational and social problems requires multiple perspectives. Urban environments are not only or even primarily the sites of problems but are a storehouse of assets, whose potential is not always realized, that are especially vital in the global age. These assets include a rich diversity, a history of popular cultural innovation, and local social and economic activities that maintain community even in extremely difficult circumstances. Policies and programs to "revitalize" urban schools and neighborhoods must emerge from a vision that includes all neighborhood institutions--especially schools, community and youth organizations, churches and service providers--is activist in orientation, and is cognizant of the larger societal and global context for action.
There is a critical need for professionals with a keen understanding of the challenges faced by students and educators in urban schools. Urban students come from many cultures and economic levels, they arrive at school with differing levels of ability and preparation; resources at home and at school may be limited, and environmental conditions may challenge the time and attention they can devoted to learning. Interdisciplinary Urban Education strives to provide the comprehensive training necessary to discern, and then to address, these and other influences, which shape urban education.
Degree Programs
The program currently supports two degree programs:
- Master's Program in Urban Education (Ed.M.)
- Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.): concentration in Urban Education (Ph.D.)
A flexible course of studies enables students to prepare for various career paths(link to placements of recent alumni) , including higher education, research, policy, advocacy, and program development. In keeping with the small, personalized character of the program, advisors consult closely with students, helping them tailor academic and field experiences to career goals and personal interests. Students and faculty often collaborate on practice and research projects in a supportive environment, and many students indicate that they learn as much from their peers as from faculty members over the course of their studies.
