Drexel University’s online Graduate Certificate in U.S. Education Policy explores the substance and process of U.S. education policy, along with the institutions that comprise the education system and their governance and practices. You’ll develop a more sophisticated understanding of the U.S. education system, how policy is made, and key issues within U.S. education today. Upon completing this certificate, you'll be able to use the knowledge gained and skills you’ve learned to enhance your performance as an education professional.
Your completed application for the online certificate in U.S education policy should include your official transcripts and resume. For a complete list of requirements, please visit the Admissions Criteria page.
This online certificate in U.S. education policy was designed for anyone working in the education field, especially K-12 education, who wishes to gain knowledge of U.S. education policy to enhance their ability to perform in their current or future roles. For those who interact with the education system for business or other purposes, this certificate will provide important background knowledge.
What is the difference between the Graduate Certificate in U.S. Education Policy and Graduate Certificate in Education Policy?
The 9-credit U.S. Education Policy certificate is aimed more toward those who want some foundational-level education policy knowledge to be more effective educators, policy advocates, etc. The 18-credit Graduate Certificate in Education Policy is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in education policymaking or policy-influencing and want a more in-depth study of the field.
Can I transfer the U.S. Education Policy credits into a School of Education graduate program?
This online certificate in U.S. education policy can be take on its own or up to nine credits may be transferred into a School of Education master’s program at the discretion of that program’s Director/Manager and upon admission into the graduate program. This program has been designed to easily transfer into the online MS in Education Improvement and Transformation program as a stackable certificate.
I am not currently working in education, but I am interested in U.S. education and policy. Will this program benefit me?
Yes, the topics covered and skills learned during the program will all enhance your understanding of education policy and its relevance to the U.S.
State restrictions may apply to some programs.
This program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year (as opposed to the traditional two semester system) which means you can take more courses in a shorter time period. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.
| Required Courses | ||
| EDPO 622 | Foundations of Education Policy | 3.0 |
| EDPO 628 | American Educational Policy and U.S. Competitiveness | 3.0 |
| EDPO 636 | Access & Equity in Educational Policy Making | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 9.0 | |
With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.
For the academic year 2025-2026, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.
2025-2026 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2025
September 22, 2025
December 6, 2025
December 8, 2025
December 13, 2025
Winter 2026
January 5, 2026
March 14, 2026
March 16, 2026
March 21, 2026
Spring 2026
March 30, 2026
June 6, 2026
June 8, 2026
June 13, 2026
Summer 2026
June 22, 2026
August 29, 2026
August 31, 2026
September 5, 2026