Course Overview

The Learning Sciences (MA, PhD) program at Northwestern University is designed to advance the understanding of how people learn and to develop innovative approaches to education and learning environments. Housed within the School of Education and Social Policy, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, combining insights from psychology, education, computer science, and design to address real-world learning challenges. Unique features include a focus on designing learning technologies, studying informal learning settings, and collaborating on cutting-edge research projects.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, educational technology, policy development, and research institutions. They often contribute to shaping educational practices and technologies through roles that influence learning design and implementation.

Key Faculty and Staff

Prominent faculty in the Learning Sciences program include leading researchers such as Dr. Bruce Sherin, known for work in science education and learning technologies, and Dr. Uri Wilensky, recognized for contributions to agent-based modeling and educational simulations.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The program benefits from access to Northwestern’s state-of-the-art research facilities and centers, including the Center for Connected Learning and Computer-Based Modeling. Students also engage in partnerships with schools, museums, and technology companies to apply research in diverse learning environments.