The graduate programs in Educational Measurement and Statistics at the University of Iowa prepare students for positions in educational measurement, evaluation, research, and statistical methods. Positions are found at universities, state and federal agencies, test publishing organizations, larger school systems, state departments of education and research centers

Educational measurement is a major focus of our graduate programs. The field of educational measurement is undergoing considerable growth and change. Growth is due to the increasing role that measurement and assessment is playing in education and educational policy. The recent initiatives by the federal government to test all third through eighth grade students in reading and mathematics is one example. The increasing use of computers in testing, such as the computer-based GRE, is changing the field. The rapid change and growth is creating many opportunities for individuals who decide to enter the field.

Applied statistics is also a major focus of our graduate programs. Individuals with skills in applied statistics analyze data in education and other fields. Many opportunities exist for individuals with skills in applied statistics. In addition, students in our programs develop skills in evaluating educational programs.

The Measurement and Statistics graduate programs at the University of Iowa currently have 9 permanent faculty. Of these faculty, 6 are affiliated with the Iowa Testing Programs. The Iowa Testing Programs develops the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills and the Iowa Tests of Educational Development, which are used throughout the US and Canada. The Iowa Testing Programs faculty support many research assistants who work with faculty on research and development activities associated with the Iowa Tests. Adjunct faculty in our program work at ACT, located in Iowa City. ACT also supports graduate assistants. Our program maintains close ties with the Center for Evaluation and Assessment and the center for Advanced Studies in Measurement and Evaluation which also provide support for graduate assistants.

The graduate programs in Educational Measurement and Statistics at The University of Iowa prepare students for interesting careers in a changing and exciting field. This website provides specific information. Please contact me if you have questions about our programs.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Kolen
Professor and Coordinator of Educational Measurement and Statistics
Email: michael-kolen@uiowa.edu