An online master's degree designed for educators and policymakers who are committed to equal opportunity in education.
We’re here because we believe education has the power to serve our communities and address society’s challenges.
This fully online Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program is designed for individuals who are already working full-time in educational settings. Grounded in research-based frameworks of teaching and learning, the program offers a flexible, innovative pathway to advanced study. It also represents the first fully online degree offering at Penn GSE.
Fall Entry Term
2 Years Duration
Online Modality
The online Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program at Penn GSE provides solid academic training and professional mentoring necessary to create effective teachers, researchers, educators, and community advocates who are interested in the distinct needs of children and families in high-need contexts.
Designed with working professionals in mind, courses are structured to accommodate busy schedules, allowing students to advance their careers without compromising their current responsibilities.
The program emphasizes inquiry, reflection, and applied research, culminating in a master's thesis. This rigorous approach equips graduates to become reflective educators who actively center student voices, foster strong relationships, and engage learners effectively. By empowering educators as intellectual leaders and innovators, the Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program prepares graduates committed to equal opportunity in urban educational settings.
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Financial Aid
Penn GSE’s fully online Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program offers a flexible, practice-based path for professionals committed to equity in urban education. With a rigorous curriculum and thesis component, it’s ideal for educators, advocates, and leaders seeking to advance their impact—without pausing their careers.
Penn GSE’s fully online Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program offers a flexible, practice-based path for professionals committed to equity in urban education. With a rigorous curriculum and thesis component, it’s ideal for educators, advocates, and leaders seeking to advance their impact—without pausing their careers.
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Time: 8:00 am - 9:30 am | Location: Online
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Location: Online
Equal access and opportunity are foundational principles of the online Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program. Faculty integrate cutting-edge research with practical strategies to help students critically examine structural inequities in education. The program emphasizes asset-based perspectives and culturally responsive teaching practices that honor the strengths and experiences of urban communities.
Through this 10-course program, students explore the complex relationships among schools, communities, and systems of governance, gaining a deeper understanding of how educators can address systemic barriers and advocate for transformative change—particularly in urban settings.
Students learn to engage with local communities through an asset-based lens and apply inquiry-driven methods to real-world challenges in urban education. Core courses encourage deep reflection, intentional planning, and informed action, while examining the dynamic interplay between human agency and systemic oppression.
For information on courses and requirements, visit the Urban Teaching Residency, M.S.Ed. program in the University Catalog.
We are here to help! Contact the Program Director, Nicole Mittenfelner Carl, mittenfe@gse.upenn.edu.
General Notes:
| Year | Semester | Classes Held |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Fall (mid-August–December) | August: Tuesdays and Thursdays September–December: Wednesdays and Thursdays |
| Spring (January–May) | January: Mondays and Wednesdays February–May: Thursdays and Wednesdays | |
| Year 2 | Fall (mid-August–December) | Tuesdays Elective – Varies by course |
| Spring (January–May) | Tuesdays Elective – Varies by course |
The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104. (267) 284-5000. www.msche.org. The MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Information about Penn’s accreditation with MSCHE is available here.
To make a complaint to MSCHE, visit this website.
For more information about Penn’s accreditation status, visit the Penn Provost website.
Alumni of the Urban Education, M.S.Ed. program are working as skilled teachers, leaders, researchers, community advocates, and policymakers who are committed to promoting equal access to education and making an excellent education a reality for all children.
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
Do you have questions about the application, financial aid, or requirements? We're happy to help!
