The interdisciplinary major enables students to integrate knowledge and research methods from several academic disciplines into a focused examination of the field of education. It provides opportunities for students to analyze the learning process, the organization of schooling, its links to broader contexts, and the potential for change. The interdisciplinary major is not a teacher certification program. Rather, it is designed for students who seek a richer understanding of education grounded in the liberal arts, whether they aspire to become educators, researchers, or policymakers, or simply in their role as informed citizens.
In addition to core courses taught by educational studies faculty, the major draws upon selected offerings by participating departments and programs, such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, political science, and theater and dance. Students also learn through field experiences offered in cooperation with Hartford-area schools, educational centers, and campus-community initiatives such as the Learning Corridor.